Articles by Hill Cox

In the dimensional metrology field, gage blocks are the universally used physical standards to which most linear dimensions are compared directly or indirectly. 

NO! This is not a rant about the world coming to an end due to global warming. In this column I’ll discuss the conditions required for dimensional measurement and let environmental types sort out the rest of the universe.

When difficult part features need to be qualified a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) can be the answer for an awkward problem.

When things go off the rails quality professionals start a root cause analysis routine to determine what went wrong and why. 

These two choices for bore measurement come into play when close tolerances are the order of the day and speedy, repeatable measurements are required in a production environment. Keeping these requirements in mind, instrument makers usually offer options such as hard chromed bodies or carbide pads and contacts where needed to keep wear at a minimum. 

Any article on dimensional measurement will usually get around to micrometers in one form or another. This series on bore measurement is no exception even though I am only offering a brief look at the application.

The measurement of inside diameters can be achieved by a number of instruments but the principles on which each is based can make picking the right one elusive. 

Choosing the best measuring device for any application requires you to answer some basic questions to sort out your options before looking at the hardware. 

I hate paperwork. In fact, I think the only redeeming quality most of it has is the fact that it is combustible and therefore great for starting fires in my fireplace.

No one in their right—or left—mind would knowingly set something up to fail but too often they do just that without realizing it.