Minimizing Error Sources in Gage Block Mechanical Comparison Measurements

Published

September 1, 1998

Author(s)

Bryon S. Faust, John R. Stoup, Debra K. Stanfield

Abstract

Error sources in gage block mechanical comparisons can range from classical textbook examples (thermal gradients, correct temperature value, and correct master value) to a completely counter-intuitive example of diamond probe tip wear at low applied force. Fortunately, there are methods available to metrologists that can successfully be applied to minimize these and other effects. Techniques such as statistical process control, use of check standards, thermal drift eliminating measurement algorithms, improved sensor calibration, and well-tested deformation modeling are used at the National Institute of Standards and Technology to minimize errors. These same methods can be applied by anyone making mechanical comparison gage block measurements.

Proceedings Title

Proceedings of SPIE, Recent Developments in Optical Gauge Block Metrology, Jennifer E. Decker, Nicholas Brown, Editors

Volume

3477

Conference Dates

July 20, 1998

Pub Type

Conferences

Keywords

check standards, comparisons, dimensional metrology, gage blocks, Hertzian contact deformation, statistical process control

Citation

Faust, B. , Stoup, J. and Stanfield, D. (1998), Minimizing Error Sources in Gage Block Mechanical Comparison Measurements, Proceedings of SPIE, Recent Developments in Optical Gauge Block Metrology, Jennifer E. Decker, Nicholas Brown, Editors (Accessed October 6, 2025)