Micrometers

Description

Micrometers are precision measuring tools used for measuring minute angles and distances.. The components of a micrometer are frame, anvil, barrel, lock nut, screw, spindle, thimble, ratchet stop. Micrometers operation is based on the principle, that the complete rotation (360°) of the screw is directly proportional to the axial movement of the screw’s lead and vice versa. Micrometer consists of an accurate screw, which moves freely on an accurate threaded fixed nut, which has an opening in one end of the screw and an anvil in the frame. Micrometers can be specified by the important parameters that include the total range length or the dimensional range that the gage can measure.

Types

The five common types of micrometers are namely:

• Outside micrometers - Measure outside thickness, diameter and length of parts
• Inside micrometers - Inner diameter of a component or part can be measured by inside micrometer
• Bore micrometers - Have the ability to measure inside diameters exactly
• Tube micrometers - Measures thickness of tubes.
• Depth micrometers - Depths of steps and slots can be measured by using this micrometer

The other commonly used micrometers include:

• Digital micrometers
• Analog micrometers
• Laser micrometers
• Dial micrometers
• Thread micrometers
• Vernier micrometers
• Optical micrometers
• Stage micrometers
• Precision micrometers
• Groove micrometers
• Blade micrometers
• Height micrometers
• Bench micrometers

Features

The main features of micrometers are

• The accuracy of a micrometer  is based on the fine pitch screw mechanism
• Spring-loaded twisting handle to ensure that the micrometer will not continue to advance once resistance is met
• Repeatability
• Accuracy

Applications

• Micrometer are highly accurate measuring tools, commonly used in manufacturing industry and metal working
• High precision micrometers are widely used in precision manufacturing industry
• Laser micrometers are suitable for precision non-contact diameter measurement