Test equipment or measuring device: The finer points of measurement technology
Before we get down to the nitty gritty, let's first take a closer look at the basics of measurement technology. This is all about determining whether a component reaches the required nominal dimension. As is so often the case, there are several ways to achieve this.
Of course, you can simply measure. To do this, you need a measuring device, i.e. a scale, a tape measure, a caliper gauge or similar. You then use this to compare the Dimensions of the test specimen and obtain a numerical measured value as a result.
Gauging, on the other hand, works differently. The result here is not a numerical value, but a categorisation into good or reject. In this way, you cannot determine the exact dimensions of a thread. The advantage of this method is that it is quite simple to carry out and minimises application errors. Where nothing is measured, there can be no measurement or reading errors. The result is clear and leaves little room for interpretation.
Fit, tolerance and co.: What does the gauge actually do?
You have probably noticed additions such as H7 or H8 on your taps or other tools. These are specifications for tolerance. This describes the values between which the exact Dimensions of a component may fluctuate so as not to impair the correct fit between the external and internal thread.
You can use a thread gauge to check whether this tolerance is adhered to, i.e. whether the thread is true to gauge. This ensures that you as a manufacturer supply flawless products and, as the system is standardised according to DIN, you are also on the safe side legally. In the professional sector in particular, it always makes sense to check the accuracy of the threads produced at regular intervals in order to prevent possible complaints from customers.
