Objective

The objective of this report was to analyze three different samples of a screw thread.
Apparatus
In this study, Vertical Profile Projector Method was used along with Vernier Calipers and
Data Charts and Reference Tables.
Theory
In order to analyze a sample of a screw thread it is imperative to measure quantities that
define the screw thread. These include, but are not limited, major diameter, minor diameter,
effective diameter, threads per inch, pitch, lead, etc.[1] Screw threads can be analyzed using
various methods such as Floating Carriage Diameter Measuring Machine, Two Wire Method,
Three Wire Method, Tool Makers’ Microscope, Vertical Profile Projector, and Horizontal
Profile Projector.
Profile Projectors are called Optical Comparator or Shadowgraph Projector. A ray of parallel
light is product using a filament lamp that covers the screw thread sample. Projectors consist
of lenses, mirrors and condensers. These components create a show of the sample piece onto
the projection screen. By magnifying a small part of the profile, it makes it easier to do more
accurate measurements. The workstation onto which the sample is placed can move in a
linear direction.[2] To precisely measure the movements, it is integrated with linear encoders
that can give a digital output onto a computer screen. In a Vertical Profile Projector, the plane
of the screen is parallel to the main axis.

Figure 1 Vertical Profile Projector

Screw Thread Terminology

Major Diameter
Often referred to as outside or crest diameter, it is the major cylinder’s diameter which just
touches the roots and crests of an internal and external thread respectively.
Minor Diameter
Often referred to as root or cone diameter. It is the minor cylinder’s diameter which just
touches the roots and crests of an external and internal thread respectively.
Effective Diameter
Also known as the pitch diameter, it is the diameter of the pitch cylinder. It is where thread
space and thread tooth are equal.
Thread per Inch
It’s pitch reciprocal in inches.
Pitch
In thread section drawings, the distance between two adjacent thread crests is called pitch.[3]
Procedure
1. Place the sample on the table and adjust its linear position.
2. Switch the projector on. There is a lens at the top that enlarges the sample and a ray of
light projects the image onto the screen.
3. Place the profiles of crests and troughs on the screen and compare your sample.
4. Use Vernier calipers to record the measurements
5. Using tables and charts, compare the results with standard measurements and analyze
the sample.
Observations
Samples Measurements/Comments Result
D = 16.20
Pass
TPI = 14
Sample A
Profile matches the standard profile. Measurements
also match the standards table and references.
D = 16.20
Fail
TPI = 14
Sample B Measurements match the standards table and
references but the roots seen on the profile are lower
than they should be.
The profile of this sample showed that the roots were
Sample C not deep enough. It was also observed that the cuts Fail
were not finished properly.

Figure 2 Sample A Figure 3 Sample B Figure 4 Sample C

Discussion and Precautions
The position of the observer is critical in this experiment. Any form parallax error should be
avoided as it can contribute to the error.
Make sure the surface of the samples is thoroughly cleaned to ensure accuracy in profile.
While using Vernier calipers, ensure that you take multiple readings and an average to avoid
any accumulation of error.
Conclusion
Out of the three samples, only sample, Sample A, passed the standard measurements test. The
rest of the two samples had not the right profile to match the standard profile of screw
threads. Although, Sample B did have the right quantities that were measure, the roots were
lower than the standard position.
References
1. Eng., M. THREAD TERMINOLOGY. Available from: https://monroeengineering.com/info-
screw-information-and-terminology.php#:~:text=Pitch%20%2D%20Pitch%20of%20a
%20thread,raised%20to%20form%20a%20crest.
2. Mitutoyo, Quick Guide to Precision Measuring Instruments, in Quality Magazine. 2018.
3. Inc., T.C. The Three Wire Method Of Measuring Pitch Diameter. 2019; Available from:
https://www.threadcheck.com/the-three-wire-method-of-measuring-pitch-
diameter/technicalinfo/.