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Inspection of parts for dimensional accuracy is an important aspect of any manufacturing process. There are several different ways of inspecting the quality a specified part to ensure that its dimensions are in sync with the required parameters. Plug gages are one such inspection tool that is used for checking and verifying the dimensional accuracy of a hole in a component. As the name suggests, this gage works in the manner of a plug wherein one part of the gage with dimensions proportionate to the hole to be measures is inserted into a hole. If the ball passes unobstructed through the hole, then the component can be said to have passed the gage test. However, if the ball doesn’t pass through the hole, then the part cannot pass the test. Thus, this gage checks if a particular hole is within the specified design limits. Various types of balls are fixed to a plug gage in order to carry out dimensional inspection of a hole. These include stainless steel balls, tungsten carbide balls, plastic balls, tooling balls, and so on. Here are some advantages of using a plug gages as an inspection tool: - It is very easy to use, and personnel can be easily trained in using it.
- It is economical. Unlike other inspection tools, it doesn’t require a heavy investment.
- It doesn’t have a high set-up time. It can be assembled in a matter of few minutes by your inspection personnel
- It can be used with holes of various dimensional specifications. Whether it is a small miniature hole or a hole of large dimensions, it can be used in different applications.
- Despite being economical and easy to use, it is also highly accurate. It provides quantifiable results that can be used during the testing process.
- It doesn’t consume energy or electricity. The task can be carried out manually with dependence on minimum resources. Hence, it reduces dependence on other expensive inspection tools and equipment.
Typically, these gages are referred to as GO/NO-GO gages. They can be utilized to verify if the cut in a hole is clean, precise, and dimensionally accurate. It is one of the most cost-effective inspection tools that an enterprise can invest in. However, when making use of these precision plug gages, it is important to calibrate the gages from time to time. It is also imperative that the user maintains instructions pertaining to temperatures, cleanliness, and moisture content in and around the environment where the gage is going to be used. Typically, plug gages are manufactured using tungsten carbide. This is a very strong chemical compound that can withstand heavy pressure and doesn’t scratch or chip easily. Tungsten carbide is also used in valve trim manufacturing. A valve trim is used inside a valve and is subjected to heavy material flow, hence it needs to be manufactured using a strong material such as tungsten carbide.
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plug gages, ball gages, valve trim,
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