Engineering Measurement Tools or Equipment

Engineering Measuring Instruments or Instruments

Engineering Measuring Instruments or Instruments: An Introduction

Engineering measuring instruments or instruments are essential tools used to accurately measure physical quantities. They are indispensable in various engineering disciplines for design, manufacturing, quality control, research and development. These instruments enable engineers to measure dimensions, angles, pressure, temperature, force and many other parameters with precision.These tools play a vital role in ensuring the accuracy, precision, and reliability of measurements, which is essential for designing, manufacturing, testing, and maintaining a wide range of products and systems.

Importance of Measurement Tools in Engineering

Precision and Accuracy: Ensuring the exactness of components and systems is critical in engineering.
Quality Control: Maintaining product quality and consistency relies heavily on accurate measurements.
Research and Development: New products and processes are often based on precise measurements and data.
Problem-Solving: Identifying and rectifying issues often involves measuring relevant parameters.

Types of Engineering Measurement Tools

Engineering measurement tools can be categorized based on the physical quantity they measure:

Linear Measurement Tools

Vernier calipers: Used for precise linear measurements.
Micrometers: Provide even higher precision for small measurements.
Rulers and tape measures: Basic tools for general linear measurements.

Angular Measurement Tools

Protractors: Measure angles.
Bevel protractors: Measure angles of inclined surfaces.
Sine bars: Used for precise angular measurements.

Other Common Tools

Dial indicators: Measure small displacements.
Height gauges: Measure vertical distances.
Depth gauges: Measure internal depths.
Gauges: Specialized tools for specific measurements (e.g., bore gauges, plug gauges).

Advanced Measurement Equipment

Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs): High-precision devices for measuring complex shapes.
Laser measurement systems: Offer non-contact measurement with high accuracy.
Optical measuring instruments: Utilize light for precise measurements.

Key Considerations for Measurement Tools

Accuracy: The ability of a tool to provide measurements close to the true value.
Precision: The ability of a tool to reproduce measurements consistently.
Resolution: The smallest measurable unit.
Calibration: Regular calibration ensures accuracy and reliability.
Proper usage: Following manufacturer guidelines is crucial for accurate results.

Applications of Engineering Measurement Tools

Manufacturing: Checking dimensions, tolerances, and surface finish.
Quality control: Ensuring products meet specifications.
Research and development: Gathering data for new products and processes.
Metrology: The science of measurement.
Reverse engineering: Creating models based on physical measurements.

Conclusion

Engineering measurement tools are fundamental to the engineering profession. Their accurate and reliable use is essential for ensuring product quality, efficiency, and innovation. The continuous advancement of measurement technology has led to the development of increasingly sophisticated tools that contribute to the progress of various engineering fields.

There are various types of engineering measurement tools or equipment, each with its unique set of features and capabilities. Some of the most commonly used engineering measurement tools or equipment are as follows

Steel Rule

The steel rule is usually made of spring steel or stainless steel. Steel rules are also made of high carbon steel.

Steel Rule

A steel rule is a measuring tool used in engineering and manufacturing applications to measure distances, lengths, and dimensions accurately. It is a flat, thin strip made of hardened steel that is marked with graduations or markings for measuring purposes. Steel rules come in different lengths, widths, and thicknesses, and are available in both imperial and metric units.

Measuring steel tape

A steel tape is typically made of steel or stainless steel, and consists of a steel strip that is 6mm to 16mm wide, with graduations in meters, decimeters, and centimeters. Steel tapes are available in various lengths, including 1m, 5m, 8m, 10m, 20m, 30m, and 50m, making them suitable for a range of measuring applications.

Measuring steel tape

A steel tape, also known as a measuring tape or a tape measure, is a measuring tool used in various industries and applications to measure distances, lengths, and dimensions. It consists of a ribbon of steel, usually coated with a polymer material, which is marked with graduations or markings for measuring purposes.

Vernier Caliper

A precise measuring instrument that is used to measure the internal and external dimensions of an object. It consists of two jaws, one fixed and one moveable, and a scale that displays the measurements.

There are two main types of Vernier Calipers:

1.Standard Vernier Caliper:

This is the most common type of Vernier Caliper and consists of two main scales - a main scale and a Vernier scale. The main scale is fixed and consists of a linear scale with graduations of 1 mm or 0.5 mm, depending on the model. The Vernier scale slides along the main scale and has a smaller division than the main scale, usually 0.1 mm or 0.02 mm. The reading is obtained by aligning the zero mark on the Vernier scale with the closest mark on the main scale and reading the Vernier scale division that lines up with another main scale division.

2.Dial Vernier Caliper:

This type of Vernier Caliper has a dial indicator that displays the measurement on a circular dial instead of using a Vernier scale. The dial has graduations of 0.01 mm or 0.001 inch and can be read easily to within 0.01 mm or 0.001 inch. The measuring range of a Dial Vernier Caliper can be up to 300 mm or 12 inches.

Micrometer

A high-precision tool used to measure the thickness, diameter, or length of objects. It consists of a spindle, an anvil, and a calibrated scale that displays the measurements.

Micrometer

There are several types of Micrometers available, including:

1.Outside Micrometer:

This type of micrometer is used for measuring the outside diameter of objects and has a measuring range of up to 300mm or 12 inches.

2.Inside Micrometer:

This type of micrometer is used for measuring the inside diameter of objects, such as pipes or tubes, and has a measuring range of up to 300mm or 12 inches.

3.Depth Micrometer:

This type of micrometer is used for measuring the depth of holes, slots or recesses and has a measuring range of up to 150mm or 6 inches.

4.Digital Micrometer:

This type of micrometer uses digital technology to display the measurement on a screen, providing a quick and accurate reading.

5.Vernier Micrometer:

This type of micrometer uses a Vernier scale to measure the distance between two points and has a measuring range of up to 25mm or 1 inch.

6.Blade Micrometer:

This type of micrometer is used to measure the thickness of objects, such as paper, plastic, or metal sheets, and has a measuring range of up to 25mm or 1 inch.

7.Screw Thread Micrometer:

This type of micrometer is used to measure the pitch diameter of screw threads and has a measuring range of up to 75mm or 3 inches.

Dial Indicator

A precision tool used to measure small distances or displacements. It consists of a spring-loaded plunger that moves in response to the movement of the measured object and a dial that displays the measurements.

Dial Indicator

There are several types of Dial Indicators available, including:

1.Plunger Dial Indicator:

This type of dial indicator measures the displacement of a plunger and is used to measure the depth of holes, the height of steps or the thickness of objects.

2.Lever Dial Indicator:

This type of dial indicator measures the displacement of a lever and is used to measure the flatness of surfaces or the runout of shafts.

3.Dial Test Indicator:

This type of dial indicator has a small, flexible arm that can be used to measure small deviations in flatness or straightness.

4.Bore Dial Indicator:

This type of dial indicator is designed to measure the diameter of holes and has a cylindrical body with a plunger that is inserted into the hole.

5.Groove Dial Indicator:

This type of dial indicator is designed to measure the width and depth of grooves and has a curved body with a plunger that is inserted into the groove.

6.Thickness Dial Indicator:

This type of dial indicator is designed to measure the thickness of objects and has a flat base with a plunger that is pressed against the object.

Each type of dial indicator is designed for a specific type of measurement and has its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of which type to use depends on the specific measurement requirements.

Laser Interferometer

A high-precision measuring instrument that uses laser light to measure the distance between two points. It is commonly used in manufacturing and research applications.

Laser Interferometer

There are two main types of laser interferometers:

1.Michelson Interferometer:

This type of laser interferometer is commonly used for length measurements and is based on the interference of two beams of light. It consists of a laser, a beam splitter, and two mirrors. The laser beam is split into two beams, which travel to the mirrors and are reflected back to the beam splitter. The interference between the two beams creates a pattern of light and dark fringes, which can be used to measure the distance between the mirrors.

2.Fabry-Perot Interferometer:

This type of laser interferometer is commonly used for measuring the thickness of thin films and the wavelength of light. It consists of two partially reflecting mirrors, which create an optical cavity. When a laser beam is passed through the cavity, interference occurs between the light waves that are reflected back and forth between the mirrors. This interference creates a pattern of bright and dark fringes, which can be used to measure the thickness of the film or the wavelength of the light.

Both types of laser interferometers are highly precise and accurate, with the ability to measure distances and dimensions down to the nanometer level. However, they require careful calibration and alignment, and can be expensive and complex to operate.

Surface Roughness Tester

A tool used to measure the surface roughness of an object. It consists of a stylus that moves over the surface of the object and a display that shows the surface roughness measurements.

Surface Roughness Tester

There are several types of surface roughness testers, including:

1.Contact-Type Surface Roughness Tester:

This type of tester uses a stylus that is dragged across the surface of the material to be tested. The stylus measures the roughness of the surface by detecting variations in the height of the surface profile.

2.Non-Contact-Type Surface Roughness Tester:

This type of tester uses a laser or other non-contact method to measure the roughness of the surface. The laser or other method creates a profile of the surface and measures the height variations to determine the roughness.

3.Optical Surface Roughness Tester:

This type of tester uses a microscope to observe the surface of the material and measure the roughness of the surface based on the visual appearance of the surface.

4.Portable Surface Roughness Tester:

This type of tester is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it suitable for use in the field. It typically uses a contact-type method to measure surface roughness.

5.Profilometer:

This is a general term for any device that measures surface roughness. It includes contact-type surface roughness testers as well as other types of instruments, such as scanning electron microscopes and atomic force microscopes. Profilometers are typically used in scientific research and industrial manufacturing.

Height Gauge

A tool used to measure the height of an object. It consists of a base, a vertical column, and a measuring head that can be moved up and down the column to measure the height of the object.

Height Gauge

A height gauge is a measuring tool used to measure the height or distance of an object. There are several types of height gauges available, including:

1.Vernier height gauge:

This type of height gauge is similar to a vernier caliper, with a sliding jaw that moves up and down to measure the height of an object.

2.Dial height gauge:

This type of height gauge has a dial indicator that displays the height measurement on a dial. The indicator moves up and down as the height gauge is adjusted.

3.Electronic height gauge:

This type of height gauge uses an electronic sensor to measure the height of an object. The measurement is displayed on a digital readout.

4.Laser height gauge:

This type of height gauge uses a laser beam to measure the height of an object. The laser beam is reflected back to the gauge and the measurement is displayed on a digital readout.

5.Surface plate height gauge:

This type of height gauge is used in conjunction with a surface plate, which provides a flat reference surface for the gauge. The gauge is adjusted to the height of the object by sliding it up or down on the surface plate.

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

A sophisticated measuring instrument used to measure the geometric features of an object, including its shape, size, and position. It consists of a computer-controlled arm with a probe that is moved over the surface of the object to measure its features.

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

A Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is a measuring device used to measure the size, shape, and location of objects. Following are some of its major types:

1.Bridge CMM:

This CMM comes with a bridge shelf that sits at its height and that measures objects on 3D axes.

2.Gantry CMM:

This CMM is in a gantry frame that is raised and placed in a specific area to measure the object. It is used for the measurement of large size objects.

3.Portal CMM:

This CMM is in a portal frame which is in a fixed position. This is useful for the general shape of objects.

4.Strata CMM:

This CMM comes with the Strata which is in a rising wide frame and it snaps down to the object and measures it on 3D axes.
Each of these CMMs has different characteristics that determine its use.

Optical Comparator

A tool used to compare the dimensions of an object to a known standard. It consists of a light source, a magnifying lens, and a calibrated scale that displays the measurements.

Optical Comparator

Optical comparators are devices used for non-contact dimensional measurement, which enable the user to view magnified images of a part and compare them with a standard or blueprint. There are different types of optical comparators available in the market, including:

1.Profile Projector:

Profile projectors, also known as shadowgraphs, use a light source and lens system to project a magnified image of a part onto a screen. The user can then compare the part's features with a template or overlay to determine if it meets the required specifications.

2.Horizontal Comparator:

A horizontal comparator is designed to measure the length and width of parts. It uses a fixed stage and a moveable lens to project the image of the part onto a screen.

3.Vertical Comparator:

A vertical comparator is similar to a horizontal comparator but measures the height of parts. It uses a vertical column with a fixed lens and a moveable stage.

4.Toolmaker's Microscope:

A toolmaker's microscope is a type of optical comparator that is used for high-precision measurement. It uses a stereo microscope to provide a three-dimensional image of the part being measured.

5.Video Comparator:

A video comparator uses a video camera to capture the image of the part being measured. The image is then displayed on a monitor and can be magnified and compared to a standard or blueprint.

Each of these types of optical comparators has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of the right type depends on the specific application and the required level of precision.

GO/NO-GO GAUGE

A tool used to determine whether an object meets the specified dimensions. It consists of two gauges, one that is slightly larger than the specified dimensions and one that is slightly smaller. If the object fits into the larger gauge but not the smaller gauge, it is within the specified dimensions.

Go/No-Go gauges

Go/No-Go gauges, also known as plug gauges, are used to verify whether the dimensions of a part are within the specified tolerance limits. There are different types of Go/No-Go gauges, including:

1.Plug Gauges:

Plug gauges are cylindrical in shape and are used to check the diameter of a hole. They have a Go gauge end and a No-Go gauge end, which are marked with different colors or rings. If the Go gauge end fits into the hole and the No-Go gauge end does not, the part is within tolerance.

2.Ring Gauges:

Ring gauges are used to check the outer diameter of a cylindrical part. They have a Go gauge end and a No-Go gauge end, which are marked with different colors or rings. If the part fits into the Go gauge end but not into the No-Go gauge end, it is within tolerance.

3.Thread Gauges:

Thread gauges are used to check the pitch and diameter of threaded parts, such as bolts and screws. They have a Go gauge end and a No-Go gauge end, which are marked with different colors or rings. If the threaded part fits into the Go gauge end but not into the No-Go gauge end, it is within tolerance.

4.Depth Gauges:

Depth gauges are used to measure the depth of a hole or slot. They have a stepped design with different depth markings, and the user can verify if the part depth is within tolerance by comparing it with the gauge.

The choice of the right type of Go/No-Go gauge depends on the specific application and the dimensions and tolerances of the part being measured.

Hardness Tester

A tool used to measure the hardness of an object. It measures the resistance of an object to indentation, scratching, or deformation.

Hardness Tester

There are several types of hardness testers available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of hardness testers include:

1.Rockwell Hardness Tester:

This type of hardness tester uses an indenter to penetrate the material being tested under a fixed load. The depth of penetration is measured, and the result is displayed on a dial or digital display. The Rockwell hardness tester is widely used in manufacturing and engineering industries due to its versatility and ease of use.

2.Brinell Hardness Tester:

The Brinell hardness tester uses a spherical indenter to create an indentation on the surface of the material being tested under a specific load. The diameter of the indentation is measured and converted into a hardness value using a chart or software. The Brinell hardness tester is commonly used for testing soft metals, non-ferrous materials, and castings.

3.Vickers Hardness Tester:

The Vickers hardness tester uses a diamond pyramid-shaped indenter to create an indentation on the surface of the material being tested under a specific load. The diagonal length of the indentation is measured and converted into a hardness value using a formula. The Vickers hardness tester is commonly used for testing small or thin parts, as well as hard or brittle materials.

4.Knoop Hardness Tester:

The Knoop hardness tester is similar to the Vickers hardness tester, but uses a different indenter shape. The Knoop indenter is a diamond with a unique elongated shape, which enables it to test small or thin parts with a high degree of accuracy. The Knoop hardness tester is commonly used for testing ceramics, glass, and other brittle materials.

5.Shore Durometer:

The Shore Durometer is a portable hardness tester that is commonly used for testing the hardness of elastomers, plastics, and other soft materials. It uses a spring-loaded indenter that measures the depth of penetration and converts it into a hardness value.

The choice of the right type of hardness tester depends on the specific application, the type of material being tested, and the required level of accuracy.

Tachometer

A tool used to measure the rotational speed of an object. It is commonly used to measure the speed of motors, engines, and other rotating machinery.

Tachometer

Tachometers are instruments used to measure the rotational speed of a shaft or disk in a machine or engine. There are different types of tachometers available, including:

1.Contact Tachometer:

A contact tachometer uses a probe that comes into contact with the rotating shaft or disk to measure its speed. The probe sends an electrical signal to the tachometer, which calculates and displays the speed on a dial or digital display.

2.Non-Contact Tachometer:

A non-contact tachometer, also known as an optical tachometer, uses a light source and a reflective strip or mark on the rotating shaft or disk to measure its speed. The tachometer emits a beam of light, which is reflected by the strip or mark. The frequency of the reflected light is used to calculate and display the speed on a dial or digital display.

3.Handheld Tachometer:

A handheld tachometer is a portable device that can be used to measure the speed of rotating machinery and equipment. It can be either a contact or non-contact type, and is commonly used in maintenance and repair applications.

4.Stroboscopic Tachometer:

A stroboscopic tachometer uses a strobe light that flashes at a frequency synchronized with the rotation of the shaft or disk being measured. The frequency of the strobe light is adjusted until the rotating part appears to be stationary. The tachometer then calculates and displays the speed based on the frequency of the strobe light.

5.Digital Tachometer:

A digital tachometer uses a microprocessor to calculate and display the rotational speed of the shaft or disk being measured. It can be either a contact or non-contact type, and typically provides more accurate and precise measurements than analog tachometers.

The choice of the right type of tachometer depends on the specific application, the type of machinery or equipment being measured, and the required level of accuracy and precision.

Inclinometers

A tool used to measure the angle of inclination or slope. It consists of a spirit level and a calibrated scale that displays the angle measurements.

Inclinometer

Inclinometers are instruments used to measure the angle of inclination or tilt of an object or surface relative to the horizontal. There are different types of inclinometers available, including:

1.Pendulum Inclinometer:

A pendulum inclinometer consists of a weight or pendulum that is suspended from a fixed point. When the inclinometer is placed on an inclined surface, the pendulum swings to an angle relative to the vertical, which indicates the angle of inclination.

2.Bubble Inclinometer:

A bubble inclinometer, also known as a spirit level or bubble level, uses a glass or plastic tube containing a liquid with an air bubble. When the inclinometer is placed on an inclined surface, the air bubble moves to a position that indicates the angle of inclination.

3.Servo Inclinometer:

A servo inclinometer uses a sensor that measures the angle of inclination and sends a signal to a servo motor that adjusts the position of a pointer or display to indicate the angle.

4.Digital Inclinometer:

A digital inclinometer uses electronic sensors and microprocessors to measure and display the angle of inclination on a digital display.

5.MEMS Inclinometer:

A MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) inclinometer uses microfabrication technology to create tiny sensors that can measure the angle of inclination with high accuracy and precision.

The choice of the right type of inclinometer depends on the specific application, the required level of accuracy and precision, and the environment in which the inclinometer will be used.

Force Gauges

A tool used to measure the force applied to an object. It consists of a load cell that measures the force and a display that shows the measurements.

Force Gauges

Force gauges, also known as force meters, are instruments used to measure force or tension in a variety of applications. There are different types of force gauges available, including:

1.Mechanical Force Gauge:

A mechanical force gauge uses a spring or other mechanical mechanism to measure force. The force applied to the gauge causes the spring to compress or stretch, which is displayed on a dial or pointer scale.

2.Digital Force Gauge:

A digital force gauge uses electronic sensors and microprocessors to measure and display force on a digital display. These gauges can provide higher accuracy and precision than mechanical gauges.

3.Pneumatic Force Gauge:

A pneumatic force gauge measures force by applying air pressure to a piston or diaphragm. The displacement of the piston or diaphragm is proportional to the force being measured and is displayed on a dial or digital display.

4.Hydraulic Force Gauge:

A hydraulic force gauge measures force by applying hydraulic pressure to a piston or diaphragm. The displacement of the piston or diaphragm is proportional to the force being measured and is displayed on a dial or digital display.

5.Tension and Compression Force Gauge:

A tension and compression force gauge is capable of measuring both tensile and compressive forces. These gauges may be mechanical or digital and can be used in a wide range of applications.

The choice of the right type of force gauge depends on the specific application, the range and accuracy of force measurement required, and the environment in which the gauge will be used.

Torque Wrench

A tool used to apply a precise amount of torque to a bolt or other fastener. It consists of a calibrated wrench and a display that shows the torque measurements.

Torque Wrench

Torque wrenches are tools used to apply a specific amount of torque or rotational force to a bolt or nut. There are different types of torque wrenches available, including:

1.Beam Type Torque Wrench:

A beam type torque wrench is a simple and economical type of torque wrench. It uses a calibrated beam or lever to indicate the amount of torque being applied. As the wrench is used, the beam or lever deflects, and the user reads the scale to determine the torque.

2.Click-Type Torque Wrench:

A click-type torque wrench is a popular type of torque wrench that is designed to audibly "click" when the desired torque has been reached. These wrenches have an adjustable clutch mechanism that releases when the specified torque is reached, producing the audible click.

3.Dial Torque Wrench:

A dial torque wrench uses a calibrated dial or gauge to display the amount of torque being applied. The dial rotates as the wrench is used, indicating the amount of torque being applied.

4.Electronic Torque Wrench:

An electronic torque wrench uses electronic sensors and microprocessors to measure and display the amount of torque being applied. These wrenches provide high accuracy and precision and may have additional features such as data logging and wireless connectivity.

5.Hydraulic Torque Wrench:

A hydraulic torque wrench is a specialized tool used for high-torque applications. It uses hydraulic pressure to apply torque, which allows for a higher level of accuracy and precision than other types of torque wrenches.

The choice of the right type of torque wrench depends on the specific application, the required level of accuracy and precision, and the torque range needed for the job.

Dynamometer

A tool used to measure the force, torque, or power.

Dynamometer

Dynamometers are instruments used to measure mechanical power, force, or torque. There are different types of dynamometers available, including:

1.Absorption Dynamometer:

An absorption dynamometer applies a load to a motor or engine and measures the power output by absorbing the energy of the system. The absorbed energy is typically dissipated as heat, water, or air.

2.Eddy Current Dynamometer:

An eddy current dynamometer uses a magnetic field to produce a resistive force that opposes the rotation of a motor or engine. The amount of force produced is proportional to the speed and power output of the system.

3.Hydraulic Dynamometer:

A hydraulic dynamometer uses fluid pressure to apply a load to a motor or engine. The hydraulic fluid is circulated through a series of valves and chambers to control the amount of load applied to the system.

4.Electric Dynamometer:

An electric dynamometer uses an electric motor to apply a load to a motor or engine. The electric motor is driven by the power output of the system being tested and produces a resistive force that is measured and used to calculate the power output.

5.Chassis Dynamometer:

A chassis dynamometer is a type of absorption dynamometer that is used to test the performance of a vehicle. The vehicle is placed on a set of rollers, and the resistance produced by the rollers is used to measure the power output of the vehicle.

The choice of the right type of dynamometer depends on the specific application, the required level of accuracy and precision, and the power or torque range needed for the job.