Micrometer

Uses of Micrometer
• A micrometer is a tool used for the precise
measurement of very small objects. A
micrometer can measure the depth, length
and thickness of whatever object fits
between its anvil and spindle. It is
commonly used in mechanical engineering
and machining applications.
 Uses of Micrometer
* A micrometer is a precision measuring
instrument, used to obtain very fine
measurements and available in metric and
imperial versions.
* Metric micrometers typically measure in
0.01mm increments and imperial versions
in 0.001 inches.
Parts of Micrometer
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer measuring faces
• Objects to be measured are placed between the measuring faces; the anvil and
the spindle. The anvil is the stationary measuring face against which parts are
held until the spindle makes contact with the work. The threaded spindle is
the moving measuring face of the micrometer.
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer sleeve scale
The scale on the sleeve of the micrometer is the
instrument's primary measuring scale. Together with the
thimble scale, the sleeve scale displays the measurement
taken.
 Parts of Micrometer
The first significant figure of a measurement is
taken from this scale. This part of the
measurement is the first value immediately to
the left of the thimble.
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer thimble scale
• The secondary measuring scale, the thimble scale,
provides the two remaining significant figures of a
measurement. This part of the measurement is the value
on the scale that aligns with the index line on the sleeve
scale.
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer index line
The index line, which runs along the sleeve of
the micrometer, is used to indicate the value
shown on the thimble scale.
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer thimble
• When the thimble is turned, the spindle rotates and alters the
distance between the measuring faces of the micrometer. Some
micrometer thimbles incorporate a friction drive. This allows for
a more accurate reading particularly when used by the
inexperienced user.
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer ratchet speeder
The ratchet speeder increases the speed at which the spindle rotates,
so the space between the anvil and the spindle is reduced more quickly
than it would be if the thimble were used. Using the ratchet speeder
reduces the time it takes to use the micrometer.
 Parts of Micrometer
The ratchet incorporates a slipping clutch mechanism that
prevents over tightening and aids the user to apply a
constant measuring force to the spindle, helping to ensure
reliable measurements.
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer locking device
• The locking device secures the spindle and preserves the measurement
so that the micrometer can be removed from the work piece before
taking the reading. Some micrometers have a lock nut (as shown),
whilst others may have a locking lever
 Parts of Micrometer
Micrometer frame
• The u-shaped frame is designed to be rigid and stable. It
supports the anvil and the sleeve of the micrometer. The
frame is held by the user whilst measurements are taken.
 Advantages
* Micrometers provide very accurate
measurements
The micrometer is one of the most accurate types of
measuring device.
Most micrometers can measure up to 0.001mm or
0.0001 inches.
* Ratchet speeder helps to provide reliable
measurements
The ratchet speeder/stop mechanism ensures that
uniform pressure is applied to the thimble so that
measurements are reliable and repeatable.
 Advantages
Integrated scales
As the sleeve scale and thimble scale are built
into the tool, another measuring instrument
such as a ruler or tape measure is not
required.
 Advantages
Anvil micrometers
• Micrometers used to measure large objects can
be very expensive.
However, anvil micrometers are a cost effective
option for users who wish to take a large range
of measurements.
These micrometers provide interchangeable
anvils of a variety of different lengths so that
multiple dimensions can be measured using a
single frame.
 Advantages
Durability
Micrometers are very durable as a result of their baked
enamel frame and tungsten carbide tipped measuring
faces.
They are very long-lasting and are unlikely to need
replacing or repairing.
Speciality micrometers
There are a number of different types of specialty
micrometers used to measure a particular type of work.
For instance, blade micrometers are used to measure
shrouded features such as grooves and paper thickness
micrometers measure the thickness of paper.
 Disadvantage
Limited range
Most micrometers have a measuring range of
only 25mm (metric) and 1" (imperial).
This means that additional micrometers are
required to measure objects that are larger than
this.
Larger micrometers can be expensive
As a result of their size, micrometers used to take
larger measurements can be very expensive
compared to smaller micrometers.
 Disadvantage
Different types are required for different
measuring tasks
Unlike dial calipers or vernier calipers which can
take a number of different measurements (outside,
inside, step and depth), micrometers are only
capable of performing a single measuring task.

For instance, if you wanted to measure the diameter

of a hole in a piece of wood as well as the outside
width of that piece of wood, you would need both
an inside micrometer and an outside micrometer.
 Different Types of Micrometer
Outside micrometer
The outside micrometer is the most commonly used type
of micrometer.
It is used to measure external dimensions such as the
outside diameter of an object.
 Different Types of Micrometer
Inside micrometer
Inside micrometers are used to measure inside dimensions like the
inside diameter of a hole or tube.
There are two types of inside micrometer: caliper-type inside
micrometers and tubular and rod inside micrometers.
 Different Types of Micrometer
Depth Micrometer
Depth micrometers are used to measure the depths of holes, slots and
steps.
They come with a variety of interchangeable rods of different lengths
so that they can be used to measure a range of depths.
Imperial measurement
(0.001 in)
Metric measurement
(0.01 mm)