EXTERNAL THREAD COMPARATOR
Tri-Roll Comparators (External)
The Tri-Roll is WESTport's flagship external thread comparator — three gaging rolls give a live pitch-diameter reading across the widest size range (frames #0–12). Build your system below: frame, base, dial indicator, gaging rolls for your thread, and a master setting plug.
Request a QuoteWhat goes into a Tri-Roll system
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1. Frame
Shop framesHolds the rolls and indicator. Sized by capacity, frames #0–12 (each covers several thread sizes).
One-time
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2. Gaging Rolls
Shop gaging rollsThe measuring elements — a set of three, specific to your thread size, pitch, and type (3/4/5).
Per thread size
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3. Dial Indicator
Shop indicatorsReads pitch-diameter variation. Choose your graduation. (Also used on STC.)
One-time
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5. Master Setting Plug
Setting plugsCalibrated reference that zeroes the gage before you measure. One per thread size.
Per thread size
How do you want to shop?
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Building a complete system?
Start with framesYou'll need a frame, base, indicator, a set of gaging rolls for your thread, and a master setting plug. Start with your frame size below.
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Adding a new thread size?
Shop gaging rollsOrder gaging rolls for the new size and pitch, plus a matching master setting plug. Your frame, base, and indicator are reused.
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Replacement or calibration?
Indicators & plugsReplace an indicator or setting plug, or send gages in for ISO 17025–accredited calibration. Call 1-888-400-4243.
Which gaging roll type?
| Type | What it measures | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Type 3 — Full Profile | Functional (assembly) diameter. | Pitches coarser than 48 TPI; “will it assemble?” checks. |
| Type 4 — Cone & Vee | Pitch diameter, limited flank contact. | Pitch-diameter control across all pitches. |
| Type 5 — Best Wire | Pitch diameter, best-wire radius. | Fine pitches (48 TPI & finer). |
Choose your frame
| Frame | Capacity (in) | Capacity (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | .059–.073 | 1.5–1.8 |
| 1 | .073–.099 | 1.8–2.5 |
| 2 | .099–.164 | 2.5–4.2 |
| 3 | .164–.313 | 4.2–7.9 |
| 4 | .313–.500 | 7.9–12.7 |
| 5 | .500–.750 | 12.7–19.0 |
| 6 | .750–1.125 | 19.0–28.5 |
| 7 | 1.125–1.500 | 28.5–38.1 |
| 8 | 1.500–1.875 | 38.1–47.6 |
| 9 | 1.875–2.250 | 47.6–57.1 |
| 10 | 2.250–2.625 | 57.1–66.7 |
| 11 | 2.625–3.000 | 66.7–76.2 |
| 12 | 3.000–3.375 | 76.2–85.7 |
Each frame covers several standard sizes — confirm the exact fit on the frame product page.
Tri-Roll buying questions
Which frame do I need?
Match your thread's major diameter to a frame's capacity range — see the chart above. Each frame covers several sizes.
Which roll type — 3, 4, or 5?
Type 3 for functional/assembly diameter on pitches coarser than 48 TPI; Type 4 or Type 5 for pitch diameter, with Type 5 best for fine pitches.
Why a master setting plug?
The gage reads variation from a known reference, so it's zeroed against a master setting plug of your thread size before measuring. One plug per thread size.
I already own a Tri-Roll — what do I buy for a new size?
Just a set of gaging rolls for the new size and pitch, plus a matching master setting plug. Your frame, base, and indicator are reused.
Calibration certificates & lead times?
A Long Form Certificate is available on most items, and we offer ISO 17025–accredited calibration. For lead times on made-to-order rolls or plugs, call 1-888-400-4243.