How to Use Micrometers

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Figure 1 Parts of a micrometer [2] Figure 1 Parts of a micrometer [2] Micrometers are a device used for measuring the accuracy of machined parts. The word “micrometer” comes from the Greek for “micros” and “metron,” meaning “small” and “measure” respectively. According to the Oxford dictionary a micrometer is a gauge which measures small distances or thicknesses between its two faces, one of which can be moved from or towards by turning a screw with a fine thread [1]. There are six major parts of a micrometer being an anvil, locknut, spindle, sleeve, and a thimble [2]. It was invented in 1772 by James Watt as a way to accurately measure machined parts during the Industrial Revolution. Before its invention factories had no way to measure small parts for precision. Since then numerous improvements have been made to micrometers ever since [3]. Frame The frame is the horseshoe shaped part of the micrometer. It is the main part that holds all the other parts together. Anvil The anvil is a hardened piece of metal that is used as a stop. It is there to stop the metal and hold it tightly against the spindle. Spindle The spindle is what moves forward and backward through the frame to close on the part being measured. Sleeve The sleeve conceals the thread in which the thimble moves on. It also has the reading line on it which is used to measure the part. Thimble The thimble is the part that is turned by the user to adjust the spindle. It also has numbers on it which are used to get a more precise measurement. Locknut The locknut locks the spindle in place so that you do not accidentally move it after you get your measurement. Figure 2 How to read micrometers [2] Figure 2 How to read micrometers [2] Using micrometers is made to be pretty easy. Simply open the micrometers as far as you need spindle so you can fit the part you are measuring between the spindle

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