Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Depending on the application and air gage type, in some cases as narrow as .050”. In some instances we can use a Leaf Style gage (contact point) to check lands down to .010”

Accurate dimensional measurement requires readouts and gaging members that are calibrated with known standards.  Both single and dual master methods of calibration are widely used for air gage systems.  The selection of one over the other involves trading off the flexibility and accuracy of the dual master system versus the ease of set up and economy of using the single master system.  Properly applied, both systems provide acceptable levels of accuracy.

The dual master system user calibrates the readout by observing that the span displayed by the readout corresponds to the span between the minimum and maximum setting masters.  This method sets the combined sensitivity of all the components of the gaging system at one time.  The sensitivities of components such as flow restrictors, amplifiers, pressure indicators and gaging nozzles, as well as pressure drops in air lines, are included in one overall calibration; thus stringent control of individual components is not necessary to obtain accurate overall results using a dual master system.

The single master system requires controlling the sensitivities of both the gage readout and the air gage member at the factory prior to shipment.  The sensitivity of the air gage readout is verified using master orifices that simulate air flow to the gage nozzles and the gaging member sensitivity is controlled by precise finishing of the gaging nozzles with verification using factory setting masters.  Ease of set up is the principal advantage of readouts configured for single master operation, though significant cost savings may also be obtained in large gage sizes by eliminating the cost of a second master.

Single master system accuracy. An allowance must be made for possible scaling errors in both the comparator and the gaging member of the single master system.  The effect of scaling error increases in direct proportion to the span between the master and the point of measurement.  For instance, if a measurement is made .0002″ from the mastered dimension, a scale factor error of 5% would cause an error of 5% of the .0002″ span or .000010″;  if the span were extended to .001″, this error would become .000050″.  An error allowance of 5% is a reasonable assumption considering that inaccuracies of manufacture and stability with age must be allowed for in both the gaging member and the comparator.  For most applications, this is an acceptable level of accuracy.  Users should be aware, however, that the use of a master that is well outside of the tolerance zone may lead to unacceptable errors in some applications.

Yes, Western Gage’s state of the art calibration lab is ISO/IEC 17025 Accredited. See home page for cert and scope of accreditation.

https://www.westerngage.com/about-western-gage/iso17025-documents/