If you need to regularly use thread gages at your facility, it's important that you avoid malfunctions through proper maintenance. There are a few tasks that absolutely must be stressed in your maintenance regime to avoid problems over time.
The following are five things that must be done regularly so that there are no thread gage malfunctions that compromise productivity at your work site.
Regularly cleaning thread gages so that they don't become dirty
One important and relatively simple thread gage maintenance task is keeping thread gages clean.
During regular usage, thread gages are likely to build up debris deposits. Debris that gets into gage components can compromise accuracy. Inaccurate thread gages compromise the quality of work that is carried out at your facility.
Staff members should be trained to keep thread gages clean and to remove debris if it is noticed.
Keeping labels on thread gages so that they are used correctly
Thread gages come in various sizes, and particular sizes are necessary for certain applications.
For this reason, it's important that the size of a thread gage is always clearly marked when gages are in storage. This way, staff members will always retrieve the right gage when it's needed for a work site task.
Neglecting to calibrate thread gages to ensure accuracy
The calibration of any thread gage will lose precision over time and need to be reset.
Staff members at your work site should be trained to keep careful records of calibration dates. Also, you should pay attention for manufacture recommended calibration frequency so that staff members don't let too much time pass between calibration dates.
Storing thread gages in areas that are exposed to temperature extremes
Like any metal component, a thread gage is subject to becoming warped when they are put in places that are very high or very low in temperature.
Be careful of where you're choosing to store thread gages at your work site. Thread gages that become warped because of temperature extreme exposure may become less precise over time.
Not only should you watch temperature extreme exposure, but you should also pay attention to humidity levels in your storage area. Humidity extremes can also cause problems when it comes to maintaining thread gages.
Not keeping thread gages well lubricated
Thread gages that are never lubricated are likely to become corroded over time. This will create problems like premature wear and tear on other mechanical components in your system.
Thread gages are typically lubricated using oily wax to coat gage parts.
