Using the Thread Gages Properly
Using the thread gages properly is the best type of maintenance you can do. If you have employees that have never used thread gages, train them well before they start using them.
Tell the employees to never force the thread gages into any into the dimensions. Instead tell your employees to turn and push the gages very slowly. Your employees should also wear some type of gloves. These gloves need to be thin, however. One type that works well is surgical gloves. This is important because touching the gages with bare hands, oil can get on the thread gages causing rust to build up.
Caring for the Thread Gages
Once you teach your employees how to use the thread gages, teach them how to care for them as part of the maintenance. For example, when they are finished using the tread gages for the day, they need to clean them with lubricant. Once this is done, they should coat the thread gages with a rust preventative substance.
While the employees are cleaning the thread gages, teach them how to inspect them for damage, such as deterioration. If there is, the thread gages need to be replaced. The gages also have to be recalibrated on a periodic basis. How often you do this depends on how much you use the thread gages. Talk with the company where you purchase the thread gages from to determine how often you should do this.
It can be useful to write down the recalibration dates for each thread gages to help you keep up with how long you should recalibrate them.
Another part of maintenance is storing the gages correctly. This includes gages that you are not using, as well as the gages your employees are currently using. The gages can be stored in a cabinet, container, or plastic storage box. Once you choose the storage option, keep the gages away from heat and humidity.
If you have questions about any of this, contact the manufacturer. They likely have a manual with information about the thread gages, as well as maintenance tips.
