Thread: dial test indicator- digital or analogue?

Yes you would need a Magnetic base.

In regards to the type of indicator I have never used a Digital one.

I would suggest to get an analogue (dial) type.

The better you can afford the better the operation.

I would also suggest to get a good brand magnetic base,the bases will come with varying strength magnets.

Some of the cheaper ones from what I have been told are prone to having weak magnets.

You would possably also have to consider the size of Indicator/s you may need.

There are varying length stroke indicators as well as the resolution.

Unless you were going to be using the indicator for measurement rather than deflection it wouldnt matter whether it was Metric or Imperial.

Also with the magnetic bases you would also have to consider the type of mounting (arms).,there are Straight,Flexible and Hydraulic to name a few.

thanks pipeclay, I was thinking of buying Mitutoyo as I've already got a digital micrometer and dial calipers made by them. They also make a magnetic base with rigid arms. They do an analogue dial indicator with a 10mm stroke. Is that a big enough range?

Jack,

if you look back at AB's post re magnetic bases, you will glean a bit more info.

https://www.woodworkforums.com/f65/mag-base-133201/

Ken

mmmmmm, thanks Ken. I think I'm more confused now!

Jack,

Have a look at the CTC Tools web site. They have a good range at very reasonable prices.

Results for Inspection Toolsial Gauges & Dial Test Indicators

I reckon the old fashion analogue dials are hard to beat. It's easier to track a moving needle and make decisions from the direction of travel.

Ken

Dial indicators are mostly used to indicate a relative condition...plus a bit, minus a bit. I always prefer analogue for that application because it requires no study-the information is all there at a glance. Digital values are great on measuring tools like mics and calipers though because absolute values are exactly their purpose.

What the old-fella said; analogue for a dial indicator, digital when you need an absolute figure.

I wouldn't pay too much for a mag base if money is tight, I have a cheap one from HF (USA) and yes it can be frustrating at times, but so can many. I'd rather have a good indicator on a cheap base than a cheap indicator on a good base, but of course there's a limit both ways.

Pete

I had a Mitutoyo Absolute digital vernier when I first started out ten years ago. I suppose it lasted 2 years before it gave up the ghost ( it wasn't new when I bought it). I haven't replaced it.

I use dial verniers for rough stuff. My Mitutoyo verniers are all at least 30 years old. For more accurate measurement, I have a selection of Mitutoyo and Moore and Wright micrometers.

I have quite a collection of dial indicators and don't have a yearning for a digital version. But this needs to be placed in some sort of context. At work, I draw on a drawing board, the other thirty staff members use CAD.

Check out Long Island Indicator Service's assessment of Mitutoyo dial indicators.
027 : Long Island Indicator Service : Sales, Repairs and Spare Parts

Jack, buy the best you can afford. You won't regret it.

BT

I agree with what Pipe clay said above, but find for general use I use the Chinese ones as their not as expensive if you drop or break them.
I love digital things but find for an indicator, you are better off with analogue because you can see the movement of the needle.
The Chinese ones from CTC are only $8.50 and will do the job. I find around 10mm travel is enough to check thing and setting up in the lathe.
DIAL INDICATOR GAUGE #C92
The test dial indicators have the advantage of the contact point being able to be swiveled to a bit over 90 degrees either way and are also great for measuring inside bores etc.
Long island indicator service is a good site showing all the different type's and also has a bit of info
027 : Long Island Indicator Service : Sales, Repairs and Spare Parts

Dave

Originally Posted by Anorak Bob

Jack, buy the best you can afford. You won't regret it.

BT

Good advice from Bob, especially when it comes to measurement instruments. After all that's your reference.

Bob, that's interesting re the Mitutoyo digital vernier, as I found completely the opposite. I bought mine used from the US and it's turned out to be so accurate I often won't bother with the micrometer and just go off it. Of course when it's REALLY important I'll crack the micrometers out, but I've been overwhelmingly impressed with that vernier and it's a lot more accurate than I would have expected. Maybe I just do lousy work

Pete

Originally Posted by Pete F

What the old-fella said;

Pete

Old fella? I got yer old fella r-i-i-i-i-ght here

Originally Posted by Greg Q

Old fella? I got yer old fella r-i-i-i-i-ght here

Well, with the baby now being born hopefully I'll hear a bit more of my wife saying the same thing

Edit: Ooops, can I SAY that on a public forum?

Dave, You must have still been typing when I hit the go button. That Long Island site is
a trove of useful advice.

Originally Posted by Anorak Bob

Dave, You must have still been typing when I hit the go button. That Long Island site is
a trove of useful advice.

Bob, great minds think alike. lol
I noticed that after I submitted it. There was only 1 reply when I started typing, and I was typing 2 at the same time in between making a coffee.
I agree, long island is a great site, it's just a shame they are so far away.

Dave