Micrometer
Glossary · Inspection & Quality
At a glance
- Category /
- Inspection & Quality
- Also called /
- mic, mike
- Related /
- 3 terms
- Source /
- Written in the shop
A micrometer is a precision measuring instrument that uses a calibrated screw to measure external, internal or depth dimensions, typically reading to 0.0001".
Also called: mic · mike
In practice
Machinists say "mic it" as a verb. A micrometer is more accurate than a caliper because the screw thread converts a small linear distance into a large, readable rotation, and because it has a fixed measuring span.
Why it matters
How hard you turn it changes the reading, which is why micrometers have a ratcheting thimble to standardise the pressure. Two people measuring the same part with different feel is a common and entirely avoidable source of argument.
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