Dial bore gages are important tools in the automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries. They measure the size of cylindrical holes and can detect if they are not round. Before using the dial bore gage, it’s important to set it up correctly. This ensures that your measurements are precise and trustworthy. We’ll talk about how to set a dial bore gauge in this article. There are three common methods: using a micrometer, setting ring, or master bore. We’ll guide you in choosing the best method for your application.
Setting a Dial Bore Gage Using a Micrometer
Knowing how to set a dial bore gage accurately assures that measurements are correct. This helps maintain high standards of quality and efficiency in processes.
One of the most common methods for setting a dial bore gage is using an outside micrometer. To make measuring more accurate, use a micrometer as a reference standard and adjust the dial bore gage to match it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set a dial bore gage using a micrometer:
- Select the appropriate micrometer: Choose an outside micrometer that can measure the diameter of your intended bore.
- Measure the bore diameter with the micrometer: To measure the diameter of the bore, use a micrometer. You can also get the target diameter from a blueprint or specification.
- Adjust the dial bore gage: Adjust the micrometer’s spindle to extend the measuring head to the target diameter. Make sure the gage is parallel and aligned with the micrometer’s anvil and spindle.
- Zero the dial indicator: To make sure the needle points to zero, keep the gage in touch with the micrometer and turn the dial indicator’s bezel.
- Verify the setting: Double-check the gage’s setting by measuring the bore diameter again with the micrometer. Make small changes to the dial indicator to match the micrometer’s reading on the gage.
Setting a Dial Bore Gage Using a Setting Ring
Another common method for setting a dial bore gage is using a setting ring. Setting rings are cylindrical rings with a precise internal diameter. They act as a reference standard for adjusting the gage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set a dial bore gage using a setting ring:
- Select the appropriate setting ring: Select a setting ring that has an inner diameter close to the bore diameter you want to measure.
- Insert the dial bore gage into the setting ring: Insert the measuring head of the gage carefully into the setting ring. Make sure the contact points are parallel and aligned with the ring’s inner surface.
- Zero the dial indicator: To make sure the gage and setting ring stay in touch, turn the dial’s bezel until the needle shows zero.
- Verify the setting: Double-check the gage’s setting by inserting the gage into the setting ring again. If needed, adjust the dial until the gage matches the internal diameter of the setting ring.
Setting a Dial Bore Gage Using a Master Bore
In some cases, a master bore can be used to set a dial bore gage. A master bore is a precisely machined cylindrical bore with a known diameter. It is used to set the measuring gauge accurately. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set a dial bore gage using a master bore:
- Select the appropriate master bore: Select a master gauge that has a similar diameter to the bore you wish to measure.
- Insert the dial bore gage into the master bore: Insert the measuring head of the gage into the master bore carefully. Make sure the contact points are aligned with the internal surface of the bore.
- Zero the dial indicator: To make sure the gage and the master bore stay connected, turn the dial indicator until the needle points to zero.
- Verify the setting: Double-check the gage’s setting by inserting the gage into the master bore again. Make small changes to the dial gauge if needed until it shows the same diameter as the master bore.
