What Is a Thickness Gauge?
A thickness gauge is a precision instrument used to measure the thickness of various materials. It typically employs a dial gauge mechanism for precise measurements.
The dial thickness gauge features a circular gauge, an extendable/retractable spindle, and a lever for operating the spindle. To function properly, the dial thickness gauge must be mounted on a stand.
Designed for portability and ease of use, a thickness gauge is compact and often used to measure the thickness of thin materials, like paper, in various manufacturing processes.
Uses of Thickness Gauges
Thickness gauges are essential in manufacturing for accurately measuring the thickness of products. They are particularly useful for detecting variations in products that might occur due to changes in manufacturing parameters, like temperature, or identifying defects during quality checks. These gauges are often designed for one-handed operation, allowing for easy and efficient measurement.
Principle of Thickness Gauge
A thickness gauge comprises a dial gauge mounted on a hand-held frame. The spindle end of the gauge makes contact with an anvil. Regular calibration is crucial to ensure accurate measurements. The spindle is calibrated to a zero point—the stable position where it contacts the anvil.
The spindle can be moved up and down using a thumb-operated lever. To measure, the object is placed on the anvil, the spindle is lowered, and the thickness reading is displayed on the gauge. While traditional thickness gauges were analog, displaying measurements via a needle and scale, modern versions are often digital, reducing the likelihood of reading errors.