Choosing the appropriate measuring tools is the key to ensuring measurement accuracy and efficiency.
Today, let's talk about the techniques for selecting measuring tools and see how to choose the right measuring
instruments in different scenarios.
I. Select based on measurement accuracy requirements
1. Different measuring tools have different accuracy grades. For high-precision measurement tasks, high-precision
measuring tools such as micrometers and dial indicators are naturally required. While for some occasions
with lower precision requirements, vernier calipers or steel tape measures are sufficient.
2. When selecting measuring tools, it is necessary to choose ones that meet the tolerance requirements specified
in the drawing. If the drawing specifies a precision of 0.01mm, then a measuring tool with a precision of at least
0.01mm must be chosen, such as a micrometer. If a vernier caliper with a precision of only 0.02mm is used,
it will not be able to meet the precision requirements.
3. For instance, when measuring the dimensions of precision parts, a micrometer or a dial indicator should be used;
when measuring the dimensions of buildings, a steel tape measure or a laser rangefinder can be employed.
II. Selection based on the object being measured
1. Different measuring tools need to be selected for different objects. To measure the inner diameter,
an internal micrometer is required; for the outer diameter, an external diameter micrometer is needed;
and for the depth, a depth micrometer is necessary. In the same way, an angle gauge or angle ruler
is needed for measuring angles, and a bevel protractor is required for measuring flatness.
2. Appropriate measuring tools should be selected based on the shape, size and characteristics of the object
being measured. For instance, to measure the diameter of a cylinder, a micrometer or a vernier caliper can be used;
to measure the diameter of a sphere, a three-coordinate measuring machine can be employed.
3. For another example, to measure the tooth profile of a gear, a gear measuring instrument is needed;
to measure the pitch of a thread, a thread micrometer is required.
III. Selection Based on Measurement Environment
1. The measurement environment also influences the choice of measurement tools. In some harsh environments,
such as high temperatures, high humidity, and strong magnetic fields, it is necessary to select measurement
tools with corresponding protection levels.
2. When conducting measurements in narrow spaces, it is necessary to choose small and portable measuring tools.
For instance, when measuring inside a pipeline, a joint-arm type three-dimensional coordinate measuring
machine can be used.
3. For instance, in a high-temperature environment, one should choose measurement tools that can withstand
high temperatures; in a humid environment, one should select measurement tools that are waterproof
and moisture-proof.
IV. Selection based on measurement efficiency requirements
1. For the measurement of large quantities of parts, in order to improve efficiency, it is advisable to consider
using automated measurement equipment, such as coordinate measuring machines, image measurement
instruments, etc. These devices can automatically complete the measurement tasks, significantly enhancing
the measurement efficiency.
2. If only a small number of parts need to be measured, manual measuring tools such as vernier calipers
and micrometers will be sufficient.
3. For instance, for rapid inspection of parts on the production line, automated measuring equipment can be used;
while for precise measurement of a small number of samples in the laboratory, manual measuring tools
can be employed.
V. Other Selection Tips
1. Choose measurement tools from well-known brands as they offer better quality assurance.
Select measurement tools that have undergone metrological verification for greater precision assurance.
2. Learning to use and maintain measuring tools correctly can extend their service life and ensure
measurement accuracy.
3. For instance, regularly calibrating measuring tools can ensure their measurement accuracy; avoiding collisions
or drops of the measuring tools can extend their service life.
