Ring Gages 101: What They Are, Types & How To Use

Ring gages are important tools in many industries. They help ensure the accuracy and precision of manufactured items. Cylinder-shaped measuring tools are important for quality control, calibration, and inspection. They help check the size of parts and keep product quality high for technicians and engineers. This article will explain ring gages, the different types and how to use them in various applications.

What are Ring gages

Ring gages are tools used to measure the size of cylindrical parts like shafts and pins. Parts are checked to ensure they fit and work properly in assemblies and other uses. Ring gauges come in different materials like steel, ceramic, and tungsten carbide. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages depending on how it is used.

Gauges are important in many industries like cars, airplanes, and factories. They help keep things precise and efficient for good quality products. Understanding the various ring gauges and using them correctly can guarantee precise and reliable measurements, leading to consistent high-quality standards in all your operations.

Types of Ring Gages

Ring gages come in different types, each for a specific use in measuring. These include:

  • Plain Ring Gages: Plain ring gages check the size of cylindrical parts. They’re also called cylindrical ring gages or go/no-go gages. These gages have a smooth, round hole and help determine if a part is within the allowed limits. A “go” gage checks the smallest size, while a “no-go” gage checks the biggest size. Technicians can use go and no-go gages to check if a part meets the required tolerances quickly.
  • Threaded Ring Gages: Threaded ring gages are tools to check the threads on screws, bolts, and threaded rods. These gages have the same threads as the part being checked. This lets users check if the threads fit the requirements. Threaded ring gages come in go and no-go types. They let you measure the smallest and largest acceptable thread sizes.
  • Spline Ring Gages: Spline ring gauges check the splines on gears, shafts, and couplings. These gages have splines that match the part being inspected. This helps check that the splines are within the required limits. Spline ring gages come in go and no-go options, like threaded ring gages. They let users check the smallest and largest possible spline dimensions.
  • Adjustable Ring Gages: Adjustable ring gages are handy measuring tools. They can be adjusted to fit a variety of part sizes and tolerances. They are very versatile. These gages can be adjusted by turning the thread to fit the part being inspected. Adjustable ring gages are helpful when inspecting parts with different dimensions. They replace the need for many fixed-size gages.

How To Use Ring Gages

To use ring gages well, you need to know the right techniques and best practices. Here are some key steps to follow when using ring gages:

  • Select the appropriate gage type and size: Choose the appropriate ring gage for your measurement task and the part being inspected. You may need to choose between a plain, threaded, spline, or adjustable gauge. Make sure the gage size is the same as part dimensions and tolerances specified.
  • Clean the gage and part: Check that both the part and the gage are clean before using a ring gage. Dirt can mess up the measurements.
  • Insert the part into the gage:  For plain ring gages, insert the part into the gage, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the bore. To use threaded or spline ring gages: 1. Place the gage on the part. 2. Make sure the threads or splines on the part and gage are aligned. 3. Rotate the part to ensure proper
  • Check for proper fit:  For go gages, the part should fit smoothly and easily into the gage without excessive force. For no-go gages, the part should not fit or should only partially engage with the gage. If the part fits both go and no-go gages, it is considered out of tolerance and may need to be reworked or rejected.
  • Record the results:  Record the inspection findings. Mention if the part meets the required standard or needs additional attention.

by George Chitos