What are Plunger Dial Gauges?
Plunger Dial Gauges are more commonly known as Dial Indicators. Dial Indicators are the most flawless tools to indicate the run-out i.e., the misalignment between the axis of the workpiece and the axis of the rotation of a spindle. The aim of the dial is to reduce the deviation.
Dial Indicators are also used in various other applications like comparative measurements, checking parallelism with gauges and fixtures etc.
Plunger Dial Gauges are available both in analog and digital models and can be used based on their applications.
What are the Parts of the Dial Indicators?
A Plunger Dial Gauge or the Dial Indicator has the following parts as shown in the diagram below.
There are various types of dials like Continuous Dial, Balanced Dial, Reverse Reading Dial, One Revolution Dials available with 0.01 mm and 0.001 mm*
*(Bi-Directional Graduation, Multi-Revolution, Reverse reading, One Revolution) in 0.01 mm. (Standard Scale Spacing, Multi-Revolution, Double Scale Spacing and One Revolution Dial) in 0.001 mm.
What are the different ways to use the Plunger Dial Gauge?
In Measuring Orientations, there are 3 different ways to use the plunger dial gauge.
1) Vertical position, where the contact point faces downward.
2) Lateral position, where the spindle is horizontal.
3) Upside-down position where the contact point faces upward.
One should be aware that if the measurement is performed with the lateral or upside-down position, the measuring force is less than in the vertical position. In this case, be sure to check the operation and repeatability of the indicator or digital display.
How to take a reading using an Analog Plunger Dial Gauge?
Please watch this video to get a step-by-step explanation on how to take a reading using an Analog Plunger Dial Gauge
Does the Plunger Dial Gauge have any accessories?
The plunger dial gauge has several accessories that can be used to make their application more efficient and effective. Some of them are as follows:
Optional Accessories include :
Contact Points :
This Screw thread of a Dial Indicator is standardized at M2.5 x 0.45 and has a Length of 5 mm. When the contact points are interchanged with different contact elements, then the probe length will be insufficient and might not fix the plunger correctly as per its height. This variation can occur during manufacturing.
Mitutoyo manufactures various types of contact elements that can be used as per their applications. One should ensure that the right contact elements are used and if you have any doubts the team at Bombay Tools Supplying Agency Pvt. Ltd. would be more than happy to assist you. You can reach them on info@btsa.in
Interchangeable Backs :
There are various types of interchangeable backs available which can be used for different applications. For Example, Flat Back, Lug-on-centre back, Magnetic Back, Back with offset Lug, Back with post, Back with screw Mount, Adjustable Back etc
Spindle Lifting Cable and Lever :
A spindle lifting cable makes it easier to use the plunger dial gauge and also makes the process more time effective.
Limit Sticker :
The limit stickers are usually stuck onto the dial face or crystal to indicate the tolerance limits, and it allows the reader to quickly identify the rejected part. Limit clips can also be used for the same.
Bombay Tools Supplying Agency Pvt. Ltd. has an extremely professional team that can assist in finding the most effective Plunger Dial Gauge and their accessories as per the applications that they are required for.
For more details please visit their website or reach out to them on info@btsa.in