Thread gages are useful and popular for many reasons, but most importantly, because they are incredibly accurate. However, accuracy is not necessarily a built-in factor. How the device is used plays a large part in the overall accuracy of the thread gage. To improve efficiency, you must avoid mistakes when it comes to the calibration process. The greater the error during this process, the greater the error in your result. Ensure you know how to avoid a calibration mistake.
References
Many people use some form of a handbook or reference when they begin the thread gage inspection process. This step is an excellent idea if you want to ensure accuracy; however, you need first to ensure that the reference is correct. Handbooks update of, and if the information inside the reference is out of date, you will run into an issue when you try to use new methods based on old data.
Ensure all the information you have is current. Keep in mind, that if you use your measurement results for an international configuration, you must use a reference from the appropriate country as American standards are not necessarily universal around the world.
Quality
Always lead with quality, not cost. Lower performing measuring systems are low cost, but they operate with a reduced level of efficiency and do a poor job at calculating data for the parallelism or flatness of the thread gage accurately.
Higher performing systems, such as bench micrometer system, are often a better option because of their increased quality but may come with a slightly higher investment. Additionally, choosing a system based on cost alone increases the likelihood of you investing in a system that does not have the measuring power that meets your specific needs.
Comparator Stand Adjustments
Ensure you don't forget to make adjustments to the comparator stand to ensure accurate calibration. For example, when using a calibration stand, the size of the thread gauge will determine the level of measuring power that is necessary to provide an accurate result. However, some people don't remember until the last minute that you cannot manually adjust the measuring power on these devices.
You must, instead, replace the entire indicator with one that is suited for the size of the thread gage. Don't wait until you have your tools in front of you and are ready to begin the process to then realize this information. Purchase any additional indicators you need beforehand.
The above represent only a small portion of the mistakes that may occur as a result of a calibration mistake. Ensure you use quality materials and take the appropriate steps to avoid these, and other, errors. Contact WESTport, for more help.
