Thickness (feeler) gages.

(1) General. Thickness (feeler) gages are fixed in leaf form to permit the
checking and measuring of small openings such as contact points, narrow slots and
so forth. They are widely used to check the flatness of parts in straightening and
grinding operations and in squaring objects with a try square. Thickness gages are
made in many shapes and sizes; usually 2 to 26 blades are grouped into one tool and
graduated in thousandths of an inch (fig 61). Most thickness gage blades are
straight, but some are bent at the end at 45º and 90º angles. Some thickness gages
are grouped so that there are several short and several long blades together.
Thickness gages are also available in single blades and in strip form for specific
measurements. For convenience, groups of thickness blades are equipped with a
locking screw in the case that locks the blade to be used in the extended position.
(2) Care of gages. Always coat metal parts of all gages with a light film
of oil when not in use to prevent rust. Store gages in separate containers. Do
not pile gages on each other. Always return blades of leaf-type gages to the case
after use. Keep graduations and markings on all gages clean and legible. Do not
drop any gage--minute scratches or nicks will result in inaccurate measurements.
51
Figure 61. Thickness (feeler) gages.
EXERCISE
12. Which ruler is used conveniently in setting calipers?
a. Flexible fillet
b. Hook
c. Six-inch pocket
13. Which caliper is used to measure an inside recessed diameter?
a. Spring
b. Hermaphrodite
c. Transfer firm joint
14. What is the FIRST procedure when reading a standard micrometer?
a. Read the number of lines visible on the barrel shown after the number
b. Read the highest number on the barrel
c. Read the number shown on the thimble
15. Which statement is TRUE concerning the metric micrometer?
a. Barrel is graduated in millimeters from 0 to 25
b. Thimble is graduated in 25 divisions with every fifth line being numbered
c. It takes three revolutions of the spindle to move 1 millimeter
7. SUMMARY. In this lesson you have learned the use of many handtools and
precision measuring tools. It would be impossible to cover all tools that you will
come in contact with; however, the tools you will use the most in performing your
mission have been discussed. Your awareness of their capability and constantly
increasing your skill in their use will enable you to perform your duties more
efficiently.
52