Thread plug gages are used to check tolerances of threaded parts according to a certain specification. These highly specific calibration tools are used to assure the assembly of mating parts and provide quality control and conformity to standards. Most gages have two ends: a GO and a NO GO. The GO end must screw all the way on, while the NO GO end must not. The class of fit for each gage measures the amount of tolerance allowed for that class. For example, class 1A has the greatest range of tolerance for unified external screw threads. It is used mainly for parts that need to be assembled quickly and easily, while classes 2A and 2B are the most common and provide a more specific calibration. Class 3A has the closest tolerance and is used for very specific calibrations where safety or strength are concerned. Classes of fit and tolerance vary, so carefully select the class needed for your specific use. Many types of thread gages exist for many different purposes; see below for descriptions.
ACME Thread Plug Gages: This gage is used to check an internally threaded product. Compliant to ASME B47.1 and B1.5-1997, this gage also comes in three classes of fit: 2G, 3G, and 4G. It also is available with three centralizing ACME threads classes of fit: 2C, 3C, and 4C.
Flexible Hole Location Plug Gages: Use this gage to inspect the location of a threaded hole in a part and determine the true centerline-to-centerline distances of threaded holes. It is also slotted at 90⁰ increments to ensure a positive location on the thread flanks, regardless of hole size. The center is concentric to the threaded section within .0002’ TIR for probe location of CMM’s. This product is available in unified and metric sizes. Every gage is inspected in an environmentally controlled ISO 17025 laboratory.
ACME Thread Set Plug Gages: This gage is used to calibrate adjustable style matching ACME thread ring gages. Available in three classes of fit, choose from 2G, 3G, and 4G. Its Centralizing ACME threads classes of fit: 2C, 3C, 4C. Compliant with ASME B1.5-1997 and B47.1.
Helical Coil Thread Plug Gages: STI Thread plug gages are used to gage threaded holes prior to the insertion of screw thread inserts. This gages is very commonly used in the automotive industry. All WESTport Gage Corporation helical coil thread plug gages are class X tolerance and class 2B or 3B. They are GO or NO GO plug members and ASME/ANSI B1.2 compliant. All gages are inspected in an environmentally controlled ISO 17025 laboratory.
Straight Pipe Thread Plug Gages: Straight pipe working plug gages are used to check the size of the internal threads of a part. Use this gage to calibrate and set a straight pipe thread ring. It can also be used to inspect the ring gage for wear. Features GO or NO GO members. All straight pipe thread plug gages are inspected in an environmentally controlled ISO 17025 laboratory.
Taperpipe Plug Gages: The NPT L1 and the NPTF L1 plugs inspect the functional size or hand tight engagement of couplings or an internal thread. Or the NPTF L3 plug inspects the wrench engagement and taper of couplings or internal threads and is used in conjunction with the L1 plug. Additionally, the NPTF 6 step plug inspects the crest truncation or profile of the internal threads and is used in conjunction with L1 plug. All NPT pipe thread plug and ring gages are manufactured per ANSI/ASME B1.20.1, and all NPTF pipe thread plug gages are manufactured per ANSI/ASME B1.20.5.
Taperlock Thread Plug Gages: This gage checks the size of internal threads to ensure the threads are within its designed tolerance limits. It features GO and/or NO GO thread plug members. All taperlock thread plug gages are class X tolerance. Choose from class 2B or 3B for inch, or class 6H of fit for metric thread plugs.
Truncated Setting Plug Gages: Use this gage to calibrate and set an adjustable thread ring gage and inspect it for wear. The crest of the thread is truncated in diameter for the first half of the set plug and “full form” on the remaining length. The truncated section is used to set the pitch diameter, and the full form section detects flank angle problems or undersize major diameters in the thread rings.
Reversible Trilock Thread Plug Gages: This gage checks the size of the internal threads to make sure that are within designed tolerance limits. It’s best for larger thread plug gages—1 ½ inches or larger. The reversible gage members provide two gages for the price of one. It features GO and/or NO GO members, class X tolerance, and a chip groove on the GO member to make identification easy.
Reversible Thread Plug Gages: Use this gage to ensure that internal thread are within the designed tolerance limits. This gage features GO and NO GO plug members, class X tolerance, and ASME/ANSI B1.2 and B1.16M compliance. Reversible gages provide two gages for the price of one.
Variable Thread Gages: This class “W” gage is full form for use with TRI-ROLL and STC Comparators. Variable thread gages are an economical choice compared to GO/No GO gages because of the reduced gaging time. Variable thread gages are for use with ASME B1.3M Systems 21 and 22.
Written by Kate Hansen, Edited by Robert Forbes – WESTport Corporation – January 22, 2015
