Frequently Asked Questions About 'Outside Micrometers' 👨‍🏭

What are outside micrometers used for?

Outside micrometers are commonly used in dimensional measurement because they are designed to measure the thickness or diameter of an object. They are the most common type of micrometer used in manufacturing industries and are used to measure external dimensions such as the length, width, or thickness of a part.

Outside micrometers look like a clamp, with a moving spindle that comes together with a fixed "anvil" to measure the thickness or diameter of a part.

They are highly accurate, but slower than other measuring devices, and are sold in sets to cover larger measuring ranges.

Micrometers are normally used in applications where accurate measurements are essential, such as the hardware industry.

While there are other types of micrometers available, such as inside micrometers, outside micrometers are the most commonly used type of micrometer.

Can outside micrometers measure external dimensions?

Yes, outside micrometers can measure external dimensions, such as the outside diameter of an object. However, they cannot measure internal dimensions. For that, inside micrometers are used, which are designed to measure inside dimensions like the inside diameter of a hole or tube.

How should outside micrometers be stored and cared for?

To maintain the accuracy of outside micrometers, they should be stored in a controlled environment that is as close to room temperature as possible, with low humidity. Here are some additional tips for taking care of micrometers:

Do not drop or slam the micrometer on any surface, as this could impact its measurement accuracy.

If the micrometer is accidentally dropped, recheck the calibration before using it for measurements.

Wipe down the micrometer on a regular basis, particularly the measurement faces, to ensure that no dirt or build-up impacts your measurement. Use a dry, lint-free cloth to do this.

After long periods of non-use or storage, wipe the micrometer with a very small amount of oil using a lint-free cloth. This will help to avoid the build-up of rust or other corrosive matter.

It is also important to choose a high-quality micrometer with a high level of accuracy.

What materials are suitable for manufacturing outside micrometers?

Outside micrometers are used for measuring the thickness or outside dimensions of raw materials, whole workpieces, and features in production, QA, and inspection environments. The materials suitable for manufacturing outside micrometers include:

Hardened steel: This is sometimes used as the measuring face to reduce manufacturing cost.

Other materials: The type of material used for manufacturing outside micrometers may vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific application. For example, Starrett manufactures micrometers made of materials such as carbide, ceramic, and titanium nitride.

Please note that the cost, work envelope, accuracy, and repeatability of outside micrometers may vary greatly depending on the specific system used.

What is the size range that outside micrometers can measure?

Yes, there are limitations to the size range that outside micrometers can measure. Most micrometers have a measuring range of only 25mm (metric) and 1" (imperial). This means that additional micrometers are required to measure objects that are larger than this.

Larger micrometers can be expensive.

Therefore, bigger objects might require multiple micrometers or larger micrometers, which can get very expensive.

Additionally, while the specialization of micrometers makes them highly accurate, they are not suitable for all measuring tasks.

How do outside micrometers differ from other types of dimensional measurement tools?

Outside micrometers are a type of micrometer that are used to measure the external dimensions of an object. Here are some ways in which outside micrometers differ from other types of dimensional measurement tools:

Purpose: Outside micrometers are specifically designed to measure the external dimensions of an object, while other types of dimensional measurement tools may be designed for different purposes.

Accuracy: Micrometers are known for their high level of accuracy, and outside micrometers are no exception. They are able to provide highly precise measurements of an object's external dimensions.

Measuring range: The measurable range of an outside micrometer depends on the size of the frame, and can differ every 25 mm. Other types of dimensional measurement tools may have different measuring ranges depending on their design.

Abbe's principle: Unlike hand calipers, micrometers adhere to Abbe's principle, which enables them to perform more accurate measurements.

While outside micrometers are the most commonly used type of micrometer, there are other types of micrometers available as well, including inside micrometers and depth micrometers. The type of dimensional measurement tool used for a particular application depends on a number of factors, including the level of accuracy required, whether or not the object can be touched during the measurement process, and the physical and surface characteristics of the object.

Who uses outside micrometers?

Outside micrometers are commonly used in industries where accurate measurements are essential, such as the hardware industry. They are ideal for measuring cylindrical or spherical objects. Specifically, individuals who work in the following fields may use outside micrometers in their line of work:

Machinists

Manufacturing professionals

Engine professionals

What can outside micrometers measure?

Outside micrometers are used to measure the thickness or diameter of a part. They are also used to measure small linear quantities such as length and thickness. If you ever aspire to make something with tight tolerance, you will probably need to use an outside micrometer.

How can measurement accuracy be improved with outside micrometers?

Outside micrometers are high precision instruments that can provide consistent measurements over time if used correctly. However, there are several factors that can affect the consistency of measurements, including the operator's "feel" or inconsistent gaging force.

To ensure consistent measurements, please calibrate and use micrometers correctly.

One way to improve measurement accuracy is to follow Abbe's principle, which states that the measurement target and the scale of the measuring instrument must be placed in a collinear fashion in the measurement direction.

Outside micrometers follow Abbe's principle, which means that the scale and the measurement position are collinear, resulting in higher measurement accuracy.

In addition, please calibrate micrometers regularly against the same reference standard to ensure that their measurement uncertainty is much smaller than the discrepancies in question. Even gauges that are calibrated annually and within their expiration timeframe should be checked on-site every month or two if they are used daily.

Overall, outside micrometers can provide consistent measurements over time if used correctly and calibrated regularly.

Why is calibration and regular maintenance important for outside micrometers?

Calibration and regular maintenance are important for outside micrometers for several reasons:

Calibration:

Ensures the accuracy of the instrument's readings and guarantees consistent measurements.

Verifies and/or restores the accuracy of the equipment back to proper working conditions.

Retains the integrity of the instrument's readings.

Guarantees precise readings needed to meet safety and compliance standards while on the job site.

Micrometers can be calibrated at many different intervals, and the calibration frequency should be set according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

The most important tools should be calibrated every four months or sooner, while less critical tools can be calibrated on a yearly schedule.

Regular Maintenance:

Helps to avoid the build-up of rust or other corrosive matter.

Prevents warping or damage due to improper storage temperature, excessive vibrations, or physical damage due to dropping.

Ensures that the measurement faces are clean and free of dirt or build-up that could impact the measurement.