A dial indicator is a precision instrument used in industrial settings to amplify and measure small linear distances and variations. It translates the displacement of a contact plunger or lever into a magnified rotation of a needle on a calibrated dial, enabling precise comparison against a reference standard.
This tool is fundamental for quality control, machine setup, and component inspection, offering immediate visual feedback for assessing geometric forms like flatness, concentricity, and alignment.
Dial indicators are essential for maintaining strict dimensional control in precision engineering and quality assurance. Their practical advantages directly enhance workshop efficiency and manufacturing quality.
Dial indicators are primarily defined by their mechanical construction. The main configurations, plunger and dial test indicators, are selected based on the specific measurement task and accessibility constraints.
Also known as a dial gauge, this type features a plunger that moves in a linear path, perpendicular to the dial face. It is ideal for direct, single-axis displacement measurements and typically offers a longer measurement range. Dial gauge indicators are the standard choice for general-purpose tasks like gauging feature height or depth.
A dial test indicator (DTI) uses a pivoting lever and stylus, allowing it to take measurements in locations inaccessible to plunger types, such as inside bores. DTIs are highly sensitive and are primarily used for precision alignment and setup tasks, including centering workpieces and checking for surface run-out.
Dial indicators operate by mechanically or electronically amplifying the small linear movement of a contact point for display.
A mechanical dial gauge indicator uses a rack-and-pinion gear system. The plunger's linear motion drives a rack, which engages a series of magnifying pinion gears. The final gear moves the needle on the dial, providing a visual representation of the displacement. This purely mechanical system is robust and requires no external power.
A digital dial indicator uses an electronic linear encoder (e.g., capacitive) to detect the plunger's position. This signal is converted into a numerical value and shown on an LCD screen. Digital dial gauge models offer features like unit conversion (metric/imperial), zero setting at any point, and data output for statistical process control (SPC).
Dial indicators are fixtures in industrial metrology, used for comparative measurements to ensure components meet design specifications.
Selecting the correct dial indicator requires assessing the application's specific technical demands. Key factors include the measurement range, required accuracy, and the environment.
RS Hong Kong supplies a wide range of precision dial indicators from leading brands. Customers can use the filtering tools on our website to select by technical specifications such as range, resolution, and type. Detailed datasheets are provided for each product. Business account holders can place orders online or contact our sales team for streamlined procurement.
RS is your trusted source for high-precision dial indicators. We carry an extensive selection from industry-leading brands such as Moore & Wright, Mitutoyo, and RS PRO. Our inventory includes numerous types and resolutions at competitive prices, ensuring you can acquire the ideal indicator for your specific metrology application.
We also stock other precision measurement tools and accessories, such as micrometers, depth gauges, and thickness gauges, to support a wide range of inspection needs. Purchase your plunger dial indicators, dial test indicators, digital indicators, and other metrology instruments online today. For complete details on our ordering process and delivery services, please visit our delivery information page.