You use a micrometer when you need very accurate measurements. There are several different designs depending on what needs to be measured. This could be the size of pipes, tools or external objects. This could be the internal width of a pipe, bearing, or other hollow object. Or this could be the depth of a hole or groove.
You can use these tools when accuracy is an important factor. This is usually true for machines with moving parts. For example, parts such as pistons that move in and out of each other need to remain in a steady straight line. If the parts wobble even a little bit, they may start to fail. The same is true in other applications, such as the use of bearings. Other applications that require precise measurements are pipe fittings - especially if the pipe will move gases with very small and light molecules, such as helium. Micrometers are also the tool of choice when measuring the thickness of items such as sheet metal.
How to read the micrometer?
Before using a micrometer to take measurements, it is important to check whether the micrometer is imperial or metric. Make sure the tools you use have the same units of measurement as the tools you already use.
Once the micrometer is rotated to the correct measurement, it's time to take the measurement. This requires adding the numbers on the spindle and thimble, which will give you the exact measurement.
When precise measurements are required, a micrometer is the tool you need. They come in a variety of designs and styles to suit just about any object you need to measure. Since micrometers have a limited range of measurement, they are often packaged in different sizes to suit your needs.
