Operation & Calibration of Screw Gauge (Micrometer)
๐ง STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP)
Operation & Calibration of Screw Gauge (Micrometer)
๐ฏ 1. Purpose
To establish a standardized procedure for the calibration and correct operation of a screw gauge to ensure accurate, reliable, and traceable measurements in accordance with good laboratory and regulatory practices.
๐ 2. Scope
- Educational laboratories
- Physics & engineering practicals
- Quality control and inspection labs
- Routine dimensional measurements
๐ 3. Regulatory & Reference Guidelines
- ISO/IEC 17025 – Calibration & measurement accuracy
- ASTM measurement practices
- NABL / GLP laboratory guidelines
- Manufacturer’s instruction manuals
๐งฐ 4. Equipment Required
- Micrometer Screw Gauge
- Calibration standard / gauge block (if available)
- Clean lint-free cloth
- Sample object (wire, sheet, component)
⚙️ 5. Parts of Screw Gauge
- Anvil – Fixed measuring face
- Spindle – Movable measuring face
- Sleeve – Main scale
- Thimble – Circular scale
- Ratchet Stop – Uniform pressure
- Lock Nut – Fixes the reading
⚠️ 6. Safety & Handling Precautions
- Always use the ratchet knob for final tightening
- Do not overtighten the spindle
- Ensure measuring surfaces are clean
- Avoid dropping or exposing to moisture
- Store in protective case after use
๐งช 7. Calibration Procedure (Zero Error)
- Clean the anvil and spindle surfaces
- Close the gauge gently using the ratchet stop
- Observe zero alignment on circular scale
-
If zero coincides → No zero error
If zero is below reference line → Positive zero error
If zero is above reference line → Negative zero error - Record zero error and apply zero correction
๐ 8. Least Count
Least Count = Pitch of Screw ÷ Number of divisions on circular scale
Example: Pitch = 1 mm, Divisions = 100
Least Count = 0.01 mm
๐ 9. Measurement Procedure
- Place object between anvil and spindle
- Rotate thimble gently until contact is made
- Use ratchet stop for uniform pressure
- Note Main Scale Reading (MSR)
- Note Circular Scale Reading (CSR)
- Observed Reading = MSR + (CSR × Least Count)
- Final Reading = Observed Reading ± Zero Correction
๐ 10. Observation & Documentation
- Take minimum three readings
- Record values clearly in tabular form
- Calculate mean value
- Mention calibration status
๐งน 11. Post-Operation Care
- Clean measuring faces after use
- Release spindle pressure
- Store in dry, padded case
❌ 12. Common Errors
- Ignoring zero correction
- Applying excessive pressure
- Dirty measuring surfaces
- Improper alignment of object
✅ 13. Conclusion
Adhering to this SOP ensures accurate measurements, compliance with laboratory regulatory practices, and prolonged instrument life.
© 2026 sopnest.blogspot.com. All rights reserved. This content is independently written and intended for educational purposes. References to regulatory guidelines are for compliance guidance only.
Comments
Post a Comment