A myriad of features is included in these inspections, such as the object’s length, height, width, thickness, sharpness, position, roundness, flatness, shape, and surface. The measurement of each of these characteristics is performed with special types of equipment in the form of precision hand tools and sensor systems.
The guide below will introduce you to dimensional equipment.
Main equipment factors to consider
The only way for a dimensional inspection to be carried out successfully is by using the right measurement equipment. For instance, the sensor type is a significant principle to take into account, as components shouldn’t be modified while being measured. Hence, opting for the right sensor is necessary for the item to be inspected in a correct manner. Go here to learn how sensors are going to change everything.
In addition, the type of sensor is best determined in accordance with the features of the item, such as its surface, color, softness, and size. Objects with reflective surfaces aren’t supposed to be measured with a laser sensor in order to prevent invalid results.
Furthermore, soft items are best estimated with the help of non-contact sensors. These types of systems are considered most suitable because of their inability to deteriorate the object’s surface throughout the inspection. The size of objects should be taken into consideration as well.
For example, small items are more specific when it comes to selecting a sensor due to the lack of proper resolution. Generally, small-sized components are measured with a sensitive sensor in order to provide the required resolution.
Another factor to bear in mind when choosing measurement equipment for conducting a dimensional inspection is tolerance. Each object imposes different tolerance requirements, which are supposed to be respected for the item to pass the test. For instance, the tolerance requirements of a medical device diameter might be between five and ten micrometers, which is much lower when compared to the tolerance of bigger objects such as toys.
Depending on the tolerance levels, inspectors are supposed to select the right tools for maximum precision. The most common equipment used in dimensional inspections is rulers, calipers, and indicating micrometers. When looking for remarkable precision, a micrometer is the right tool to choose. In contrast, calipers are better suited for items with lower tolerance levels. For guidance on using calipers, follow this link, https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Calipers.
Moreover, the shape of the objects undergoing measurement should be considered as well. Items that need to be measured internally require a special type of equipment for that purpose or accessories that enable such measurements.
The ultimate factor to consider is the speed of the results. Some tools provide immediate results, whereas others need a longer period to offer comprehensive data. Certain suppliers are more interested in investigating the reason for inspection failure, thus requiring detailed information.
Popular types of dimensional equipment
Dimensional inspections are performed with the assistance of three sorts of equipment; hand tools, contact sensor systems, and non-contact sensor systems. Precision hand tools are known for their portability, versatile use, and affordable cost. The most commonly used tools include calipers, fixed gauges, micrometers, protractors, air gauge instruments, indicators, length gages, etc.
When precision hand tools fail to provide the necessary measurements, contact systems are the right solution. The correctness of a dimensional inspection is affected by multiple factors, such as the condition of the object being measured and the measurement surface. For example, a contact sensor has to get in touch with the item in order to provide accurate results, particularly when measuring rigid parts. These systems refer to tools such as coordinate measurement machines, form tracers, contour tracers, articulating arms, etc.
Nevertheless, when the measurement surface doesn’t allow the use of probes or other devices, non-contact systems are believed to be the best choice of equipment. These are indispensable in inspections of parts, which are overly small, soft, or elastic.
Final word
The main goal of dimensional inspections is to provide accuracy. Many important industries find them essential!
