Lab 3 – Micrometers

Name: GOUTHAM AYKKYATHIL Date:11/4/2023

Prerequisite: Chapter 7, Micrometer Instruments

Introduction:
The increased precision of micrometers allows them to be used for several diverse
measurements, primarily those dealing with some form of inside or depth measurement.
Micrometers may incorporate a standard four-digit mechanical readout or have a digital
readout. This lab aims to explore the general use of the typical mechanical readout (one
Micrometer), to affirm how to read the measurement to the fourth decimal place, and to
take measurements and understand the variations that can occur with individual users and
among multiple users.

Items needed:
 Data recording tools

 A set of standard SAE and/or metric gauge blocks.

 The referenced numbered metal cubes to use for measurement

 Provide various Inch micrometers for the students and multiple sizes for
demonstration purposes. Micrometers from numerous sources are beneficial but
not necessary.
 Lab 3 – Micrometers
Name: GOUTHAM AYKKYATHIL Date:11/4/2023

EXERCISE 1
Observation:
Familiarize yourself with your micrometers, 0 to 1", 1" to 2", and 2" to 3" (If available).
Your instructor will review the proper procedure for its use, the measurement technique,
and how to read the instrument's measurement. Practice using the Micrometer.

EXERCISE 2
Calibration:
Using the gauge included with your Micrometer, take three readings to check the
accuracy of each instrument on both ends of the micrometer range. Compare your
readings with those of other students. Are there variations? What are the possible reasons
for variations, if any?

0 to 1 The smallest micrometre in the group, the 0 to 1-inch micrometre allows us to

measure in increments of 0 to 1 inch. The micrometre set comes with a 1-inch and 2-inch gauge to
check the accuracy of the metre reading. The measurement of the 1-inch gauge yielded an
inaccuracy of 0.01 for the 0 to 1 micrometre. After that, with the aid of a tiny micrometre wrench,
it was calibrated to the correct value, and after several readings, the micrometre displayed the
correct value. The other pupils saw a comparable degree of variance in their micrometres. These
differences may be explained by improper manipulation of the micrometre or by applying too
much stress to the micrometre thimble during the measurement process.

1 to The same 1-inch gauge used previously was measured using the 1 to 2-inch micrometre.
Upon measurement, this micrometre also showed a variance of about 0.01. To determine whether
or not this inaccuracy was reoccurring, this gauge was measured several times, and it was. This
mistake was again corrected with a micrometre wrench; it has a tiny pin on one side that fits into
the adjusting hole on the micrometre scale hand. The micrometre scale was calibrated with the
wrench using the 1-inch gauge between the measurement ends. The 1-inch metre was calibrated,
and several readings were obtained to see if the mistake continued. While some students had no
issues with their micrometres, the other pupils reported similar differences. That could again be
the cause of improper handling or overtightening.
 Lab 3 – Micrometers
Name: GOUTHAM AYKKYATHIL Date:11/4/2023

2 to 3 The largest micrometre included in the micrometre set is the 2 to 3-inch model. It can
only measure objects that are two inches or larger. The 2-inch gauge was utilised to determine
whether or not there was an inaccuracy with this micrometre. After taking several readings, the
micrometre displayed no inaccuracies. It was the same story for the other students. This might be
the result of the 2 to 3-inch micrometre not being used as much as the other two.
 Lab 3 – Micrometers
Name: GOUTHAM AYKKYATHIL Date:11/4/2023

EXERCISE 3
Calibration Continued:
Is your Micrometer properly calibrated? Use the chart below to determine your
calibration. Use Imperial (standard) gage blocks and proper wringing practices.

Gage Reading Micrometer Reading Errors

.100 0.11 0.01

.500 0.01
0.51
1.00 1.01 0.01

Gage Reading Micrometer Reading Errors

1.100 1.110 0.01

1.500 1.510 0.01

2.00 2.01 0.01

Gage Reading Micrometer Reading Errors

2.100 2.1 0

2.500 2.500 0

3.00 3.00 0

Calibrate your micrometers and leave them in the lab for the instructor to verify.

Calibration Procedures Micrometer

Lab 3 – Micrometers
Name: GOUTHAM AYKKYATHIL Date:11/4/2023

1. PURPOSE
• To establish a standard procedure for calibration of outside micrometers

2. SCOPE
• All standard outside micrometers that measure, gauge, test, inspect or otherwise examine
items to determine compliance with specifications, set specifications, or that have been
deemed critical to the control of a process.

3. RESPONSIBILITY
• The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for ensuring the overall implementation of
the procedure.

4. REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
• Equipment Calibration Form for Hand Gauges (as specified by your QC Manual).

5. MATERIALS REQUIRED
• Cleaning solution
• Lint-free cloth
• Micrometer wrench (brand sensitive)
• Master Calibration Gage Blocks/Rods, Grade II

6. TOLERANCES
• Micrometers with .00002 resolution shall be within .00002.
• Micrometers with .00005 resolution shall be within .00005.
• Micrometers with .0001 resolution shall be within .0001.
• Micrometers with .001 resolution shall be within .001.

7. PROCEDURE (0-1 inch mic)

• Visually examine Micrometer for apparent damage or other signs of mishandling or wear
that may affect the accuracy.
• Clean faces with a lint-free cloth, dampened with a cleaning solution.
• Close the Micrometer using the ratchet or friction stop.
• Hold the Micrometer to a light source and visually examine for light showing between
faces. If faces are parallel, no light will show between them. Parallelism may also be
checked by measuring a calibrated ball in several areas, such as top/bottom, front/back, etc.
• If any defects are found that would affect the accuracy or function of the Micrometer.
Discontinue calibration.
• Clean exterior surfaces.
• Remove the spindle assembly.
• Clean and oil the spindle and measuring screw.
• Clean and oil the fixed nut in the barrel.
• Reassemble Micrometer.
• Check the measuring screw for wear by pushing the thimble back and forth toward the
measuring screw axis. There should be no movement. Adjust for wear if necessary by
tightening the fixed nut on the barrel to a smooth, tight (no shake) fit for the entire thread
length. If it is found that a smooth, tight fit cannot be achieved due to loose and tight areas
on the measuring screw.
• Close the Micrometer using the ratchet or friction stop to check the zero setting. Record the
reading on the Equipment Calibration Form.
• Check accuracy with gage blocks by having an accuracy of no less than .0001
Lab 3 – Micrometers
Name: GOUTHAM AYKKYATHIL Date:11/4/2023

– Back off the thimble

– Insert a C-spanner into the slot or hole of the adjusting nut

– Turn the adjusting nut until the rotation of the thimble is the
preferred tension.

0 to 1" micrometer adjustment

to zero.

Clean and visually inspect measuring faces. Close the measuring faces using the ratchet stop
Insert the c-spanner into the hole or slot in the sleeve.
Turn the sleeve until the index line coincides with the zero line on the thimble.
Lab 3 – Micrometers
Name: GOUTHAM AYKKYATHIL Date:11/4/2023