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Do You Need Coordinate Measuring Machines Or Vision Systems?

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Nov

Oftentimes, you get confused about which measurement system can best be applied in an in-house lab. The answer is usually either a Vision System or a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). The CMM style probing has grown in popularity in use for vision systems. This makes choosing which system to apply in your business less straightforward. The following post aims to explain some important factors that need to be considered in order to make your decision of which measuring equipment to use simpler. Some of the important factors to consider when deciding on coordinate measuring machines or vision systems include:

Size

Always have the size of your smallest feature in mind when choosing an inspection system. Vision systems are more accurate when dealing with smaller features of about 3-5mm. As for larger features, you need not worry about them since both coordinate measuring machines and Vision Systems can be used to handle them.

Variety

One of the key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a measuring system is the nature of the characteristics to be measured. You can equip your Vision systems with full probing, to make it a CMM for rapid coordinate metrology. By integrating the CMM with the Vision systems, a high speed, highly automated, 3D coordinate acquisition system can be developed. Its potential applications can be used in a broad spectrum of manufacturing problems with a big impact on inspection and metrology.

Speed

Vision Systems are less dependent on probe approach speeds and moving probes. This gives them the potential to move faster, 5-10 times faster than other measurement systems.

Number

For the longest time, Vision systems have been used in 2D measurements. The ability to use CMM and vision probing on the same machine as well as interchangeably makes Vision systems the go-to measurement system in most 2½-Dand 3D applications. Vision systems and the part 2D in nature, are the preferred choice of measurement system in the event that the main datums are visible on one view of your print.

From the above, it is safe to say that choosing which measurement system to use is not as black and white as some would think. A lot of key factors need to be put into consideration when deciding on which system to go for.

At Willrich Precision Instrument, our staff is ready to guide you in determining which system best suits your needs. We are ISO certified and have been in business for over 40 years, offering solutions pertaining to gaging, inspection and metrology. We work diligently to maintain customer satisfaction by providing expert assistance through our knowledgeable staff.

If you would like to discover more about our products and the services we offer, feel free to contact us today.

Top Tips To Choose A Film Thickness Gage

Posted on by George Chitos

10 Nov

A film thickness gage is one of the most essential instruments used in the coatings industry today. Errors in film thickness estimates lead to a significant waste of money, material and time. If a coating application makes a dry film excessively thick, this leads to failures such as flaking, cracking or excessive drying time. In the event that a film is excessively thin, its protective capabilities and hiding power become inadequate and time is lost by having to recoat the entire surface.

For these reasons, it is important you know how to properly select a film thickness gage. Below are some key factors you can consider when choosing a film thickness gage:

Film Thickness Gage Performance

When choosing this type of thickness gage, always keep in mind its level of performance. A good question to ask yourself is how precise or accurate you need it to be. A high performance gage is needed if you are applying less than 1.0 mil of dry paint film. If you want to further improve your accuracy, choose one which has single or a two point calibration feature. Remember, the gage can be calibrated in line with certified film thickness standards.

Substrate

Always consider the substrate the coating is being applied to when choosing a thickness gage. Is the substrate metal or non-metal? If it is metallic, the metal is either ferrous, such as steel, or non-ferrous, such as aluminum. It is worth noting that ferrous metals have magnetic properties, unlike their counterparts, the non-ferrous metals.

ISO Compliance

You might be required to document your measurements for ISO compliance. In this case, a film thickness gage with computer interface capabilities and memory is your best choice.

Measurement Area

Another important factor to consider when choosing a film thickness gage is the measurement area location. You will need an exterior probe sensor when measuring inside corners, pipes, and very small surfaces. Unfortunately, when external probe sensors come into play, the choice of film thickness gage models becomes quite limited.

Certified Thickness Standards

It is recommended you get a certified thickness standard to check if the gage is performing as required.

Bottom Line

Before choosing a film thickness gage, there are some important factors you should have in mind. For effective coating to take place, you need a well measured film thickness gage.

Willrich Precision Instrument offers a wide range of film thickness gages that can meet all your gaging and inspection needs. We are an ISO certified company and have been the premier provider of precision measurement systems for over four decades. Our staff is knowledgeable and ready to help you with any questions you may have regarding your metrology needs. Feel free to contact us to discover more about the products and services we offer.

What You Need To Know About Thread Inspection

Posted on by George Chitos

05 Nov

Thread inspection is described as a ridge of uniform sections in the form of a helix on the external or internal cylinder surface. External threads are found on studs, screws, or bolts, while internal threads are located on tapped holes and nuts.

A large number of machine parts that are fastened to each other are attached via threading. Accurately produced threads are critical for each thread to bear the load evenly. If the male or female threads have a manufacturing flaw, the load distribution will be uneven, meaning some threads will bear more weight than they should. This can be quite disastrous, thus the importance of thread inspection.

Thread Inspection Basics

If you join two parts via threading, the two types of threads are male and female, with the male screwing into the female. As mentioned above, the two types of threads are internal and external. In a nut and bolt example, the bolt is the male and the nut is the female. The nut has threads on the inside, meaning it is an internal thread, and the bolt has threads on the outside, which makes it an external thread.

For the nut and bolt to fit each other, they have to be machined to the same size. The external thread diameter must match the internal thread’s smallest diameter, the pitch of the thread must match, the thread quantity per given length must match, and much more.

The geometrical measurements needed to inspect a threaded component would be very labor and time-intensive and thus impractical. The solution to this is thread gaging.

Thread Gaging

Thread gaging is the process of inspecting threads, and there are two types of thread gauging:

Thread Plugs: Thread pugs are plugs that have external threading, and they are used to measure internally threaded parts such as nuts.
Thread Rings: Thread rings are the opposite of thread plugs. They are rings with internal threads and are used for measuring externally threaded parts such as bolts.

Thread plugs and rings are made from old gage steel, which is exceptionally resistant to wear.

Basics of Thread Gaging

All threads are considered as attribute gages, which mean they do not give any feedback on the exact dimensions. This differs from the measurements you would get from a caliper, which provides you with the precise measurements of whatever you are measuring.

Thread gages have what we call a Go/No-Go measurement. A threaded plug best explains an example of this measurement. For inspection of the internal thread, the ends of the plug are inserted into the threaded part. The plug’s Go-end should thread in, while the No-Go end should not. If the Go/No-Go test works, the component passes the inspection. If the Go-end part does not fit, then the threaded portion is too small, and vice versa. If the No-Go end fits, then the threaded part is too large.

A thread ring works based on the reversed version of a similar principle. The rings come in a set, and the Go ring is machined to a size smaller than the nominal while the No-Go ring is manufactured to be a little bigger than the nominal. In short, the Go ring is supposed to thread into the machined part while the No-Go ring is not supposed to do so. The Go/No-Go method of measurement is swift and very accurate.

Which Indicating Bore Gage Should You Get?

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Oct

If one selects the wrong type of bore gage, it
could deliver inaccurate data, low throughput and end up as an unnecessary
expense. If you are looking to get indicating bore gages, here’s what you need
to know:

Understanding the Basics of Indicating Bore
Gages

The two basic types of indicating bore
gages are fixed-size gages with plug-style housing and adjustable-capacity
gages with interchangeable extensions or contacts. In most cases, indicating
plug gages offer higher repeatability and can measure closer tolerances than
their adjustable counterparts. Now that you have a better understanding of
indicating bore gages, below are several factors to consider before choosing
the ideal bore gage for your precision measurement needs.

Diameters

If you need to measure large inner diameters (ID), adjustable bore gages are currently recognized as the economical option. Stock adjustable gages and masters are typically available in capacities of up to 24 inches. Most plug-type gages, on the other hand, are over 4.5 inches and are considered “specials.” This means that they cost slightly more than adjustable gages.

Tolerances

Today, many modern shops still utilize adjustable
bore gages. In addition to low production runs, adjustable bore gages come in
handy when technicians need to measure with medium to broad tolerances. Additionally,
the application might have many different bore sizes to measure as well. The
range of these gages is typically up to three times greater than that of plug
gages, i.e. 0.010 inch vs. ≤ 0.006 inch. That’s why they are practical to use
with broader tolerances.

Because adjustable gages can measure a range
of hole sizes, some shops only require just three units, with capacities of:

0.500 to 1.00 inch
1 to 2 inches
2 to 8 inches

Indicating plug gages, on the other hand, require
separate size plugs to measure each hole size.

Stability

One of the biggest advantages of fixed-size
plug gages is that they can eliminate “rocking” to center the gage in
the bore. Self-centering plug gages virtually eliminate operators’ influences
and require minimal training. Rocking adjustable gages is considered a refined
skill that needs to be performed conscientiously. Inadequately trained
operators who are rushed or tired are likely to produce inaccurate results.

Adjustable gages, on the other hand, are more
subject to intentional operator influences than the aforementioned gage. This
is called “close-enough syndrome.” If you want to eliminate
“rocking” and speed up the measurement process, choose plug gages.
They perform well in production runs where tolerances are tight, and volumes
are high. Additionally, they have larger bearing surfaces, are more resistant
to wear, and offer greater repeatability. It is recommended that one uses plug
gages with electronic data collection systems.

Willrich Precision is the leading supplier of precision instruments including bore gages. We have over four decades of experience supplying high-quality precision measurement instruments to a variety of industries. You can count on our professional staff to offer advice and suggestions when you are buying equipment from us. This way, you get the correct products for your applications and save money. Willrich Precision is also a family-owned business and we put our customers at the center of everything we do.

What Do Height Gages Have To Offer In 2019?

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Oct

Height gages have been in use for years and are critical for determining the height of various products. These gages generally consist of a heavy base and a caliper. Measurements are taken along a vertical scale and are either read off the scale or from an LCD screen for modern instruments. Height gages can also be used to measure other parameters such as diameter. Height gages have come a long way and there have been many changes to them. Here is what you can expect from height gages in 2019.

Mechanical and Electronic Gages

When you are looking for a new height gage,
you have a choice of taking a mechanical or electronic one. Each one of them
comes with certain advantages and disadvantages. For example, dial height gages
are very portable and thus can be used in machining shops where the machine
operator has to move around. Digital gages, on the other hand, are easy to use
and measurements can be taken rapidly. This is a real plus in environments
where speed is valued. Digital gages also allow for the setting of a floating
zero value which makes readings more accurate.

More Features

In 2019, you can expect that your height gage
will come with a host of features that make it easier to use. The additional
features also increase the functionalities that you can apply your height gage
to. These improvements are not just in the features but in the build of the gages
themselves. For example, the modern height gage comes with a high precision
resolution that ensures that most errors arising from the build of the gage are
canceled. This has been done without increasing the weight of the gages. In fact,
height gages have become lighter than before as they are built with lightweight
metals.

Digital Gages

As digital technology has improved, height gage operators have seen increased capabilities when it comes to what they can do with their height gages. Modern height gages can automatically set zero point as we have seen but can do much more than that. Data from modern height gages can be easily downloaded from the device and on to a printer or a computer. This means that operators can analyze the data, as well as share it widely through email and other modern communication channels.

Modern height gages also come in a variety of
shapes and sizes meaning that they can be used for a wide range of tasks and
applications.

1D and 2D Measurements

Height gages with 1D measurement capabilities
can perform the following functions:

Loads the probe and shifts the probe position
Saves the probe
Inputs the probe diameter
Measures the probe diameter
Sets the probe type
Measures the difference between maximum height
and minimum height of an upward or downward facing surface
Performs angle calculations
Measures the width and center of inner and
outer diameters
Measures the width and center position between
two elements
Measures the minimum and maximum heights of
downward and upward-facing surfaces
Measures the diameter and center of a shaft or
hole
Measures the height of an upward-facing and
downward-facing surface

Height gages with 2D measurement capabilities
typically come with the following functions:

Tolerance judgment result output
Tolerance judgment function
Coordinate distance calculation
Element recall
Coordinate save
Coordinate system rotation
2D origin setting
X/Y axis setting
2D origin translation
Coordinate recall
Polar coordinate recall
2D distance calculation
2 elements intersection-angle calculation
3 elements intersection-angle calculation
Pitch-circle calculation
Tolerance/nominal value setting
Warning functions

Willrich Precision Instruments is your
one-stop-shop for all your precision equipment needs. We have been serving a
host of industries for the last 45 years. This gives us remarkable insight into
the needs of any business when it comes to precision instruments. You can count
on us for high-quality instruments backed by a superb after-sales service. We
always put our customers at the center of all that we do so you are sure that
we have got your back.

Understanding The Height Measurement Of Sharp Edges And Needles

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Oct

Measuring sharp edges and needles is critical when it comes to ensuring that tools and medical instruments meet the required height specifications. Medical equipment such as needles need to be of very specific dimensions. This is because if they are too long or too short, they may cause injury or might not deliver the right dosage as needed. For this reason, quality control personnel have devised a myriad of ways to conduct height measurement of sharp edges and needles.

Measuring Sharp Edges

When manufacturing instruments and tools with
sharp edges, it is important to verify their height to ensure that they can
perform as required. When doing this, quality control personnel use a variety
of tools principal among them, digital gage probe. These probes are designed to
take measurements of delicate surfaces without causing any damage to the
pointed end or the sharp edge of a tool. They are also designed to be extremely
accurate, up to a 0.05µm.

Advantages of Digital Gage Probes

Modern digital gage probes are particularly
suited for this kind of work because they offer precise and repeatable results.
They also come with very low tip forces ensuring that they deliver sub-micron
accuracy. They are also designed to be part of a quality control process, so
they integrate very well with other equipment and are easy to use. Digital gage
probes also can withstand varying environmental conditions meaning that they
can be used in all kinds of factories and machining shops.

Digital probe gage can also be easily used to
measure the height of needles made with all kinds of materials. This includes
tungsten and more. They also come in all kinds of shapes and sizes ensuring
that they can easily be applied to a wide range of applications.

Benefits of Verifying Height of Sharp Edges
and Needles

The height of medical instruments matters
greatly when it comes to how they are applied. For example, the effectiveness
of insulin injections can be affected by the height of the needle used. If a
patient with diabetes injects himself or herself with a needle that is too
long, the insulin is deposited intramuscularly. This in turn results to faster
than normal absorption and decreased longevity of the insulin. The height of
sharp edges also has a significant impact on the efficacy of the tool in
question. The depth of the cut is largely determined by the height of the edge.
This has major implications when one thinks of delicate surgeries such as heart
and brain surgeries.

Willrich Precision is the leading supplier of precision instruments including digital gage probes. We have over four decades of experience supplying high-quality instruments to a variety of industries including the medical industry. You can count on our professional staff to offer advice and suggestions when you are buying equipment from us. This way, you benefit from our experience in this field. Willrich Precision is also a family-owned business and we put our customers at the center of everything we do.

Understanding the Extended Capabilities of Modern Height Gages

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Oct

A height gage comes in handy when doing a quick measurement
check in the quality room. Besides that, a height gage can help you make
accurate checks on the shop floor and this makes it one of the most valuable
tools you can have. A modern height gage is especially useful as it performs
almost as good as a coordinate
measuring machine (CMM) with near similar capabilities and accuracies.
Having a modern height gage that has multipurpose capabilities means you can
save the CMM for use when you need more critical and detailed checks and in the
meantime use the modern height gage for simpler and less sensitive tasks.

How Does a Height
Gage Work?

To read the height measurement using a height gage, a slider with a
measuring stylus attached to it is moved while staying relative to a measuring
scale placed on a beam along one vertical axis. This axis is often perpendicular
to a reference plane placed on the instrument base allowing you to take your
readings.

Types of Height Gages

There are three main types of height gages namely:

Vernier
Dial
Digital

All the above height gages are useful tools that come in
handy during quality control. However, many advancements and adjustments are
being made to the digital height gage to make it more applicable to perform
more complicated tasks. Discussed below are some of the capabilities that have
resulted due to the advancements made to modern height gages:

Higher Accuracy,
Resolution and 2D Measurement

Higher resolution is made possible by new encoders that have
been installed in modern gages. A strong construction also increases the
probability for higher accuracies. It is important to remember that increased
gage stability leads to increased weight hence difficulty in sliding the gage
as a result of increased friction. If you have a print that needs a 2D
measurement, a digital height gage with a 2D measurement feature is the tool
for you. By rotating the 2D measurement feature 90 degrees and measuring the
same points, you can get the diagonal measurements with ease.

A height gage with calculation abilities makes it easy to
get the measurement between centers. This calculation power allows the height
gage to memorize the lowest and highest points within a single sweep. You can
also interchange the ball probe with smaller ones to enable the gage to reach
narrow slots. Measuring the bottom edge of a groove or slot was near impossible
until a microprocessor combined with a ball probe to cover for the ball
diameter was brought into the market. This combination makes measuring the
distance between two centers easier and quicker.

Other Measurements

Most new height gages have a horizontal offset or special
probes that make it possible for the gage to measure angles during quality
checks. Other new height gage models can input the output from some linear
displacement devices like indicators. This input enables the displays to show squareness,
as well as straightness.

Data and Output

New height gages offer ways to make easy programs that take
an operator through pre-measured points in order to make sure the same
positions are measured all the time, not overlooking a single measurement.

There is no arguing that modern height gages are the new
wave and with so many capabilities, owning one for your business will only
prove beneficial to you.

Product Spotlight: Starrett 254 Master Vernier Height Gage

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Oct

Precision measurements are a common element in many
industrial applications. Technicians need to deal with a wide array of values,
e.g., height, length, breath, and depth, on a daily basis. It is important that
all workshops have the right instrument to accurately measure and record these
values. Chances are you might have heard of Vernier height gages. This is a
special type of Vernier instrument that is used to measure the heights of
different engineering objects with high precision and accuracy. Additionally,
these gages typically comprise the following components: a base, a main scale,
a measuring jaw, a fine adjustment screw and a fine adjustment clamp. The sizes
of Vernier height gages range from 150 mm to 500 mm on average. If you are
looking for the Starrett 254 master Vernier height gage, learn more about it in
this product spotlight!

About Starrett

The L.S. Starrett Company was founded in 1880 by Laroy
Sunderland Starrett. As a mechanically inclined individual, he patented a
number of inventions, including a butter working machine, a washing machine and
a meat chopper. Starrett engages in the manufacture of consumer, professional
and industrial measuring and cutting tools.

In 1868, Starrett was appointed the superintendent and
general agent of the Athol Machine Co. of Athol. This allowed Laroy Sunderland
Starrett to manufacture his inventions, as well as taking out approximately 100
patents. Among his inventions were a variety of hand tools that were useful in
the building trades. The combination square was one of these tools and it
consisted of a steel rule with a sliding head.

Today, Starrett’s diverse product range includes tape
measures, custom engineered granite solutions, laser measuring equipment and electronic
gages among others. The organization continues to operate through the following
segments: International Operations and North American Operations.

Features of the Starrett
254 Master Vernier Height Gage

Here’s a quick look at some notable features of the Starrett
254 Master Vernier Height Gage:

Vertical bars that provide balance and stability
Hardened master bars (available on models up to
24 and 600mm)
Remote fine adjustment features for sizes 36
(900mm) and larger
Quick-adjust release features that allow for
fast positioning
Black lines and figures against satin chrome
finishes for increased visibility
50-division Vernier scales
Flush fitting to eliminate parallax
Scriber and base allow for direct reading from
zero
Special master bar design that eliminates
vibration
… and more!

Get Starrett 254
Master Vernier Height Gages from Willrich Precision!

The Starrett 254 is one of the most durable and accurate
Vernier height gages on the market. In addition to the product’s increase
strength and stability, it has more range than other height gages. If you are
looking to get a new Starrett 254 master Vernier height gage, look no further
than Willrich Precision. Our firm ahs been in business for over 40 years and
provide stellar solutions for customers who specialize in metrology, gaging and
inspection. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that we are also ISO:9001:2008
Registered and are well-versed in repair and calibration services.

To know more about our Starrett 254 master Vernier height
gages and the benefits they provide, do not hesitate to contact us today.

Measuring Styrofoam End Caps With Air Gages

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Oct

When you buy a stereo system, it is hard to imagine that air gages are used in the process of packaging your new device. Most people regard air gages as precision instruments being used in automotive factories and other heavy industries. Air gages, however, are pretty versatile and you will find them in use in a variety of places including the manufacture of Styrofoam end caps. Here’s how air gages are used to verify the quality of these end caps.

What is Styrofoam?

Styrofoam is also known as polystyrene is a
polymer that is found in a variety of products. It is typically used as a form
of packaging as the material is light and strong. This allows manufacturers to
ship delicate products safely without increasing their costs of shipping.
Depending on what is being shipped, manufacturers can easily vary the characteristics
of the polymers. This is why some of these materials are rock hard while others
are soft and crumbly.

When manufacturers are doing this, they are
often checking on whether the polymer will hold the weight of the product. At a
microscopic level, this processing, known as bonding, ensures that there is no
air between the beads that make up the polymer.
The less air there is, the tighter the beads bond together and the
stronger the polymer becomes.

Role of Air Gaging

This is where air gaging comes into play. By
running pressurized air through the beads, the manufacturers can figure out how
much space there is between the beads. This, in turn, helps them to determine
how strong the polymer is. By applying pressurized air, one can then observe
the back pressure on the air gage. If there are lots of gaps between the beads,
the backpressure will be reduced as the air is flowing through freely. If the
bonding is tight, then the back pressure is higher as there are fewer gaps for
the air to pass through.

Over time, these technicians know the
reference standards that tell them how tightly bound a polymer is. Backpressure
readings from the gages are then compared to these references and inferences
can then easily be drawn from the data.

Verifying the Flatness of Styrofoam Packaging

Machine operators can also know how the mold
matches up with the surface. If a part of the product is flat, then the molding
surface should also be flat as well where the product will lie. The path of the
airflow helps them to determine how flat a surface is. Here, they use an
open-air probe with a flat surface. If the surface is not completely flat,
there will be gaps between the probe and the surface. This, in turn, will lead
to air escaping and will be reflected in the ensuring backpressure.

If you are looking for high-quality air gages, Willrich Precision Instruments has exactly what you need. We have been supplying a variety of industries with precision instruments for the last four and a half decades. We offer excellent after-sales support and you can always count on our superb customer service.

Understanding Height Gage Measurement Procedures

Posted on by George Chitos

28 Sep

Height gages are useful instruments when one needs to measure the height of an object. They come in many different forms and modern height gages can also be used to measure internal diameters among other things. Electronic height gages can be very precise and often claim a consistency of ±0.0001in. Height gage measurement typically involves a moving arm with a pointed end that is usually in contact with the object that is being measured. In the old gages, readings were taken off a vertical and calibrated shaft. Modern height gages have a digital display where readings are displayed.

In recent
years, digital height gages have become the preferred choice in many machining
shops. They are made with hardened stainless steel and a heavy base. This makes
the instrument stable and ensures that any reading made are accurate. Digital
height gages also come with data ports that allow the machine operator to
transfer data from the gage to a computer. From there, the data can be printed
or stored for later use.

Preparing
the Gage for Use

It is
wise to start the process by cleaning the bench from which you are working. Any
objects or particles on the surface can affect the stability of the height gage
and in turn affect the accuracy of the readings. To get the best results from
your height gage, always ensure that the base of the gage is resting flat on
the surface of the workbench.

Once
that is done, dry the sticker on the digital height gage and fix the measuring
arm on the gage after cleaning it. At this point, ensure that all the LCD displays
and controls of the height gage are working flawlessly. You should also clean
the surface of the item you are measuring with a cloth to ensure that there are
no impurities on the surface of the object.

Using
the Gage

When
it comes to taking measurements, move the measuring jaw so that it gently
touches the platform surface. If the machine is set correctly, the value on the
display should be zero. If it is not, turn the machine on and off until it is
zero. When this is done, keep the rod against the surface and move the
measuring jaw to the closest reading. When this is done, take the reading on
the LCD screen.

Things
to Note

If you
have an object that is above the range of the height gage, raise the base of
the gage and place an even block underneath it. Zero-point becomes the platform
surface and the starting point is the top of the block. In such a case, ensure
that you have preset the height of the block. Remember to clean the jaws and the
unit after measurement before storage. You should also avoid applying electric
current to any part of the unit as this is likely to damage the sensitive
electronics in the unit.

If you are looking for high-quality height gages for your machining processes, Willrich Precision Instruments has exactly what you need. We believe in not just supplying high-quality precision instruments but in building strong partnerships with our clients. This way, we are always there when you need us for calibration services and any other kinds of support.

Understand The Three Rs Of Sensor-Based Mechanical Measurements

Posted on by George Chitos

20 Sep

When you are dealing with sensor-based mechanical measurements, there are three important Rs that you should be aware of. These are Resolution, Response, and Repeatability. Understanding how these apply to your sensor-based mechanical measurements will ensure consistent and accurate results from instruments designed to take sensor-based mechanical measurements.

Repeatability

This
refers to the measure of variability in the results of a sensor-based measuring
system. Repeatability applies for a number of trials of an identical object in
an unchanging environment. Typically, quality control engineers will run about
three to five trials in order to establish repeatability. In a machining
process, this parameter is usually established by taking the average of the
variations in outputs across the various trials that have been done. It is
often expressed as a percentage of total output although some production
processes express repeatability as an absolute term.

One
thing to note when working with this parameter is that the tests must be done
exactly the same way for it to be effective.

Resolution

This
is the second R and it measures the least variation in the input to a
sensor-based measuring system to produce a measurable change. This parameter is
affected by, among other things, the signal-to-noise ratio of the analog
output. This noise often masks changes in the system’s output and the machinist
should be aware of this variable. When expressing resolution, many quality
control systems express it as a percentage of the total output but some express
it in absolute terms.

Response

This
parameter looks at the sensor-based measuring system’s operation while under
rapidly changing conditions. This parameter is not just a sensor specification
but is a measuring system parameter. Response is characterized in several ways
such as bode plots and phase lags. The purpose of this parameter is to look at
how well a measuring system can hold up to changing inputs before the readings
become unstable.

It is important to note that all these three parameters are interconnected and affect each other. For example, repeatability can be affected if the resolution is inadequate and so on. Machine operators must always be aware of system-level interactions that affect the overall accuracy of these measurement units. The other thing to remember is that machining environments rarely offer the constant environment that these sensor specifications are designed for. There will likely be variations in temperature, humidity and much more. Being aware of all these factors allows a machine operator to correctly calculate and translate these readings. At Willrich Precision Instruments, we do more than just sell high-quality instruments. Over the last four decades that we have been in operation, we have built partnerships with our partners that are mutually beneficial. Our clients can count on us for that personal touch that our physical presence brings. That notwithstanding, we also have an online presence for speed and convenience. By being both online and having a ‘brick and mortar’ presence means that our clients can always get personalized service if they wish. They can also enjoy the speed and convenience of shopping online from our store.

Product Spotlight: Fowler Trimos V9 Electronic 2D Height Gage

Posted on by George Chitos

15 Sep

If you are looking for height gages such as the Fowler Trimos V9 Electronic 2D Height Gage, you have come to the right place. In addition to mechanical height gages, one can easily find the electronic version of the product in today’s market. There are three different types of electronic height gages with the following characteristics:

Height gages with standard data
output, absolute/floating zero, and inch/metric conversion features
Height gages with tolerance
setting, probe compensation, and ID/OD measurement features
Height gages with air bearings,
motorized touch probes, and the ability to communicate with a computer
interface.

Since the third type of electronic gage has a higher accuracy rating, it can be used to reduce the demand on one’s CMM.

About
Fowler High Precision

Fowler High Precision was founded in 1946
and is a leading supplier of precision measurement instruments. Their products
are designed for a wide variety of applications, including inspection and
quality control. Fowler is currently headquartered in Newton, Massachusetts and
still manufactures microscopes, height gages, calipers, and bore gages. As an
effort to maintain their market position, Fowler has also partnered with
industry leading manufacturers such as Bowers Metrology, Wyler AG, Trimos, and
Sylvac. By being the preferred U.S. agent of these four companies, Fowler was
able to make significant contributions to the precision measurement industry.

In addition to making the best quality
electronic measurement tools, Fowler is also recognized for supplying products
that offer user-friendly experiences and work on the latest technologies. For
example, customers can easily connect their height gages to laptops or PCs for
data collection purposes.

Features
of the Fowler Trimos V9 Electronic 2D Height Gage

Here’s a quick look at some notable
features of the Fowler
Trimos V9 Electronic 2D Height Gage:

Interchangeable probes
Additional probe holders
Easily adjustable without tools
Horizontal displacement
handwheels with air cushioning
Electronically adjustable
measuring force
Measuring range between 400 and
1100 mm
Exceptionally precise
Manual or motorized
displacement
Adjustable touch-display with
intuitive functions
Compatible with a wide range of
accessories
USB and RS232 interfaces
Probe weight balance system
Cast iron base for optimal
stability

Get Fowler
Trimos V9 Electronic 2D Height Gages from Willrich Precision!

If you are looking for a brand-new Fowler
Trimos V9 Electronic 2D Height Gage, look no further than Willrich Precision.
We are delighted to offer Fowler High Precision products at the most
competitive rates. Willrich Precision has been in business for over 40 years
and has unmatched expertise in all things metrology, inspection, and gaging.

You can enjoy complete peace of mind
knowing that we are ISO:9001:2008 Registered and can provide calibration and
equipment repair services to meet our customers’ needs. Whether you specialize
in the automotive or aerospace industry, we have got your back. Our products
have proven to be useful in wide array of industries. If there is a product you
weren’t able to find on https://willrich.com,
it is recommended that you reach out to one of our product specialists.

To know more about our Fowler Trimos V9
Electronic 2D height gages and the benefits they provide, do not hesitate to contact us today.

Understanding The Use of Equator Gauging Systems In EV Production

Posted on by George Chitos

10 Sep

Equator gauging systems are specifically
designed for the needs of production lines. They make it possible for
production engineers to perform high-speed measurements accurately and with
much more flexibility than standard gauges can allow. The systems can be
tailored to meet the specific needs of a particular production line complete
with accessory options for manual and automated production lines.

The system works by comparing a pre-set master with the parts that are being measured. Equator gauging systems are also able to compensate for thermal conditions in the shop floor, making readings far more accurate. The gauges also come re-zeroed which eliminates the need to configure them before they can be used. These properties have made these gauges popular in many industrial processes and more so the production of electric vehicles or EVs. Here is how these gauges are transforming the production of EVs.

Equator
Gauges in EV Production

Any
car production system requires the fast and accurate measurement of hundreds of
parts and pieces. The accuracy of this gaging process plays a role in the
safety and reliability of the cars that come out of that proves. This is where
the equator gauging system has really made a difference in the production
lines. These gauges have been so effective that thousands of them are in use in
EV production lines across the United States, Europe, and Asian markets. The
system has worked especially well with the MODUS programming software that allows
for customization of the gaging process to suit the needs of any production
line.

Complete
Control

Using the
equator gauging system, production engineers have complete control over the
production process. To make it more powerful, the gaging system is compatible
with the Intelligent Process Control (IPC) software that enables the automatic
monitoring and adjustment of all machining processes in a production line. By
making this process automatic, production speed is significantly improved while
variances from the set master are minimized considerably. This, in turn,
reduces wastage and significantly increases revenue.

Manual
Vs. Automated Gaging

Another
advantage of equator gauging systems is that they can be customized to work
with the same application demands of other gaging systems. As EV production
becomes more and more automated, the equator gauging system comes with the
ability to work in automated systems which include robotic machines and
conveyors. What this means is that the system can work with existing systems
but is also ready for the future of automotive production systems. The system
can also be customized to work in harsh environments. In such a case, the equator
gauging system is installed in an enclosure that protects the system. Parts can
then be loaded and removed without interfering with the system.

Willrich Precision Instruments is your seller of choice for a wide range of precision measuring instruments for the last forty-five years and we back all our products with excellent support and warranties.

What Is The Proper Way To Read Height Gages?

Posted on by George Chitos

05 Sep

Height gages allow a machine operator to measure the depth of an object with pin-point accuracy. These gages differ immensely from model to model but most have the same basic structure. They consist of an arm that is usually in contact with the object being measured and a measuring unit that moves up and down the scale. Height gages typically measure vertical spaces but can also measure other dimensions such as internal and external diameters. Ever wondered about the proper way to read height gages? Read on to find out more:

Vernier Height Gages

The
first step when using this kind of height gage is to lock the arm into position
after placing it at the top of the object being measured. When this is done,
you need to then find the ‘zero” on the vernier scale that goes along with the
moving part on the scale. Look at the number on the upright shaft that falls
across the zero marking. Take note of this number as it is the first portion of
your measurement. When this is done, look at the numbered line on the vertical
scale that best aligns with a line on the vertical shaft. This number becomes
your final portion of measurement. The final step is to combine the zero
measurements with the best-aligned measurement to get the final height
measurement of the object you are measuring.

Dial Height Gages

Start
with positioning that arm in place at the top of the object that you want to
measure. When this is done, take note of the last number located beneath the
measuring equipment on the shaft. These numbers are likely to be in increments
of 0.1 inches. Take note of the number that the needle is indicating on the
dial face. The final step is to combine the measurement that you took on the
vertical shaft with the measurement that you noted from the dial face. The
combined number that you get represents that height of the object that you are
measuring.

Digital Height Gages

When taking measurements using this type of height gage, place the arm in position at the top of the object that you wish to measure. When this is done, find the digital display on the height gage and take note of the number that is shown on the display. This number is the height of the object that you are measuring. With digital height gages, you do not have to take the ‘zero’ setting as this is automatically set by the gage when you switch it on. For this reason, digital height gages are very popular as they can give readings much faster than the other two. This ability is critical in a manufacturing process where the quality control officers have to randomly test samples from the production line without slowing down the production process.

Looking
for high-quality height gages? Willrich Precision Instruments has been
providing clients with the best precision instruments for over four decades. We
are a one-stop-shop for all your precision instrument needs.

Understanding the Use of Air Gaging in The Automotive Industry

Posted on by George Chitos

26 Aug

Air gaging is the use of compressed air to measure small spaces and hard to reach areas. Air gaging works by forcing a stream of air through finely tuned nozzles. The air gage then measures various dimensions of the space based on the air backstream. Air gages have over the years become hugely popular due to their flexibility and ease of use. Air gages have been used in the automotive industry for many years. Here are some of the ways that these useful gages serve the automotive industry.

Measuring Connecting Rods

Connecting rods are rigid components of the engine that link a piston to a crankshaft. By doing this, the connecting rods help to transform reciprocating motion into rotating motion or vice versa. Connecting rods are found in many types of engines but the most popular use is in automobile engines. Connecting rods require a very high degree of precision for them to function adequately. If one of the connecting rods fails, it often results to complete engine failure.

Use of Air Gages

During the manufacturing process, air gages are used to measure the distances between the piston end of the connecting rods and the crank end bores. Care is taken to ensure that the diameter, flatness of the parting surface and many other elements of the connecting rods are standardized and are up to the required dimensions. This is because any error in these elements can cause the engine to perform at less than its optimal level.

Air jets are used because they are insensitive to the diametrical size as well as to rod movement. This way, any variability associated with operator technique is eliminated. Accurate measurements can be taken fast and easily. This is especially useful in a factory setting where these parts are typically produced in their thousands every day and quality control operators need to measure random samples fast and accurately.

Workbench Version

The bend and twist gage have a bench version. This particular gage is good for busy workshops with a high volume of inspections. The device has a bend and twist fixture and also has an air to electric converter. The design of the gage is configured for easy and fast loading of workpieces. The data is also captured on the user interface and can easily be transferred on to a computer or another type of platform for analysis and storage

No Wear and Tear

One other reason why air gage is popular in the automotive industry is the fact that they are not susceptible to wear and tear. This is unlike contact gages such as calipers which come into contact with the part being measures. Air gages also clean the surface that is being worked on, meaning that dust and other elements do not affect the integrity of the readings from the air gage.

In conclusion, air gages are a bedrock of the automotive industry. As we have seen, they offer a flexible and fast way to measure samples.