Standard methods for checking shafts,

Ovality ;
This usually occurs as a result of the surface wearing, through friction or linear movement.
Ovality and can apply equally to holes and shafts .Holes may be tested for ovality, using such
instruments as Go/No-Go gauges,internal micrometers, or callipers, as were previously discussed in
the Tools topic
of this course.
A shaft may be tested for ovality, by the use of snap gauges, external calipers and
micrometers.
It is important to test for ovality of a shaft, before testing it for bow, as the results may
be suspect if bow is done first.
Bow in a shaft can be determined, in a workshop, by utilising V blocks, a surface
gauge and a DTI (in conjunction with a surface table).

When dealing with shafts and tubes, it is vital that not only are the ends square with
each other, but that the centreline of the complete shaft or tube is straight.If the centre line of the shaft
is not straight, then the item is bowed.
When the shaft or tube is rotating, especially at a high speed in a bowed state, there is
the risk of vibration, which can lead to mechanical failures, loosening of fasteners and (most critical of
all) fatigue.
Bores/ holes.::
1. Where holes found to be elongated by stress the part must be renewed.

2. The corresponding pin or bolt assemblies should be inspected for wear, distortion, Picking up
& shear, and where necessary renewed.

3. Lubricating ducts should be inspected for obstruction.

4. When excessive wear has taken place in unbushed holes , the fitting should be renewed .

5. Wear in ball and roller bearing should be checked.

Twist/Bow

1. Measurement of bow in a structural member using a straight edge and a set of feeler gage,
providing the part to be measured is free from protruding fittings and straight edge can be
applied directly along the surface of the member.

2. The straight edge placed along the entire length of the member and parallel to it’s axis , then
inserting the filler gage at the point of maximum clearance .

3. The amount of bow can be calculated by the formula

Bow = clearance measured by Feeler gage

Length of member