When purchasing precision fixed limit thread gages, it is imperative to select a quality gage. Here are some of the benefits to look for in a thread gage:
- Aged gage steel that is extremely stable and true to dimension
- Hardness that is noticeably over the standardized minimum requirements
- Extra high wear resistance
- Availability of standard and special tolerance models
- Special designs that may be required
- Inspection certificates available upon request (issued by an independent or in-house inspection lab)
- Ability to laser mark custom specifications on gages
- Gage handles with double surfaces leaving sufficient space for specific marking requirements
- Incomplete threads that are removed before the beginning of the first full thread for creating a stable thread start
- Plug gages provided with a dirt flute, for safe gaging even under difficult conditions
- Knurled handles for safe handling and improved gripping
- Reduced thread start for easy insertion of the no-go gage body
- Recessed minor thread diameter of the no-go gages for safe function
- Gages manufactured by companies that are ISO 9001-certified
How do you choose the Right Analog Plug Gauge?
The analog plug gage should meet all the requirements and gaging criteria as specified in ISO 1502 for standard go and no-go thread plug gages. Here are some of the things to look out for when selecting an analog plug gage:
- Simple and safe handling, which can help significantly reduce inspection work
- A full range of sizes available
- Measurable thread depth of up to 4 x D
- Easy to adjust
- Universally applicable due to exchangeable gage bodies
- Availability of TiN-coated gage bodies for extra wear resistance
- Measuring accuracy of 0.5 mm (0.020 inch)
- Available with locking screw
- How do I choose the Right Digital Plug Gage and Analog Plug Gauge?
- The analog plug gage should meet all the requirements and gaging criteria as specified in ISO 1502 for standard go/no-go thread plug gages. Some helpful features to look for when selecting a plug gage include:
- Simple and safe handling, which can help significantly reduce inspection work
- A full range of sizes available
- Measurable thread depth of up to 4 x D
- Easy to adjust
- Universally applicable due to exchangeable gage bodies
- Availability of TiN-coated gage bodies for extra wear resistance
- Measuring accuracy of 0.5 mm (0.020 inch)
- Available with locking screw
What are the requirements for a Digital Plug Gauge?
A digital plug gage should also meet all the requirements and gaging criteria as specified in ISO 1502 for standard go and no-go thread plug gages. Some important features to look for when purchasing a digital plug gage include:
- Simple and safe handling that can reduce inspection work by 50%
- A full range of sizes
- Measurable thread depth of up to 2.5 x D
- Easy to adjust
- Universally applicable due to exchangeable gage bodies
- Availablilty of TiN-coated gage bodies for extra wear resistance
- Tolerance of 0.001 mm (0.0001 inch)
- Large, easy-to-read LCD display
- Available with locking screw
Frank Xu is the author of this article on Thread gauges. Find more information, about Metric thread gauges.
