How to use a micrometer? Features of measurement by the device

A micrometer is a device that allows you to take very accurate readings of length or other dimensions down to hundredths of a millimeter. To do the job correctly, you need to know how to use a micrometer, as well as how to set it to zero. This is discussed in detail in the article.

Device structure

To correctly understand how to measure with a micrometer, you need to understand its structure. The device is designed to measure linear dimensions, for example, length. It allows you to obtain highly accurate results down to hundredths of a millimeter. Using this tool, various parameters are assessed, including cross-section or diameter.

If you correctly understand how to measure with a micrometer, this will allow you to solve various problems:

• adjustment of elements;
• performing duplicate parts;
• size control.

In practice, smooth instruments are most often used. Moreover, they are used both in the professional sphere and in everyday life. The tool consists of several elements - a clamp with a screw, a heel, a bracket, a drum and others, as shown in the diagram.

The object to be measured is placed close to the heel and secured with a clamp. A measurement scale is applied to the stem, from which the number of millimeters is determined with an accuracy of hundredths.

The scale has a horizontal scale, it is located under the cylinder. When the screw is tightened, part of this line is exposed.There is a straight line on the scale, which represents the reference risk. On each side there are divisions in 1 mm increments.

The length of the scale depends on the device, but the instructions for use are the same. For example, you can learn how to use a 0-25mm and a 0-30mm micrometer at the same time, since the rules are the same.

Tool preparation

First you need to understand how to properly use a micrometer. To do this, the device is prepared for operation. The sequence of actions is as follows:

1. First you need to put a zero mark - this is always done before work in order to ensure accuracy.
2. All measuring surfaces (drum, clamp) are wiped free of dust.
3. The drum is unscrewed with a screw and separated from the stem.
4. Next, it is rotated so that the zero point and the reference risk completely coincide - this is the “0” position. To verify this, you need to look at the scale exactly from the side of the drum and at a right angle, as shown in the micrometer designation diagram.
5. After the divisions are perfectly straight, they are fixed. Now the micrometer device is ready for work.

Measurement Instructions

They usually produce a mechanical micrometer, which is described in this section on how to use it. First, you can carry out a test measurement on any metal part, such as a drill or nail. Moreover, it is better to take an object whose parameters are unknown in advance.

Instructions on how to use a micrometer look like this:

1. First, the part must be placed between the heel and the screw.
2. Then the drum is rotated and the screw is advanced - the device is opened for measurement work.
3. The object is clamped as much as possible by rotating the ratchet nut.
4. After a click is heard, the rotation stops.
5. They look at the resulting values. To do this you need to know what a micrometer is. First, the values ​​are calculated on the horizontal scale and the vertical values ​​are added to them.

For example, you can consider the option shown in the photo. On a horizontal scale from 0, there are 4 whole divisions. Then they pay attention to hundredths – in this case 0.5 mm. Therefore, the total is 4 + 0.5 = 4.5 mm. Next you need to calculate the remainder of the hundredths vertically. In this example, you can see 2 divisions that coincide with the reference mark, that is, 0.02 mm. Thus, the thickness will be 4.52 mm.

Important

Do not clamp the part while rotating the drum. In this case, the object may be severely compressed, resulting in incorrect data. Therefore, you only need to fix it with a ratchet, which will give a signal when the limit is reached. This is exactly how it should be done micrometer measurement.

How to care for your instrument

A micrometer is a fairly simple device, but it requires careful care, because the accuracy of the measurement depends on it. If the ends are covered with even fine dust, the error increases. Therefore, you need to know what the micrometer consists of and store it in a separate box, which is usually included. The device is covered with clean foam rubber or other material. This is especially important if field work is planned.

Now it’s clear how to set up a micrometer to correctly measure any parameter. To operate, the part is pressed against the heel and then the ratchet nut is rotated until it clicks. After this, readings are taken, adding horizontal and vertical values.