The micrometer screw gauge

The micrometer screw gauge is used to measure even smaller dimensions than the vernier callipers. The micrometer screw gauge also uses an auxiliary scale (measuring hundredths of a millimetre) which is marked on a rotary thimble. Basically it is a screw with an accurately constant pitch (the amount by which the thimble moves forward or backward for one complete revolution). The micrometers in our laboratory have a pitch of 0.50 mm (two full turns are required to close the jaws by 1.00 mm). The rotating thimble is subdivided into 50 equal divisions. The thimble passes through a frame that carries a millimetre scale graduated to 0.5 mm. The jaws can be adjusted by rotating the thimble using the small ratchet knob. This includes a friction,clutch which prevents too much tension being applied. The thimble must be rotated through two revolutions to open the jaws by 1 mm.