12 best dial tests

Dial tests, also known as dial test indicators or dial indicators, are precision instruments used in dimensional measurement, quality control, and inspection processes in various industrial and scientific applications. These instruments provide precise measurements of linear displacements and are commonly used in the manufacturing and metrology fields. Here is what you need to know about dial tests:

  1. Operating Principle: Dial test indicators operate on the principle of mechanical amplification. They consist of a needle or probe connected to a rack and pinion mechanism.As the probe is moved, it rotates the gears, causing the dial face to move, which displays the measured value on a scale.

  2. Accuracy: Dial tests are known for their high level of accuracy, typically with graduations as fine as 0.001 inches (0.0254 mm) or even finer. This precision makes them suitable for tasks that require very accurate measurements.

  3. Applications: Dial tests are widely used in industries such as manufacturing, machining, automotive, aerospace, and quality control. They are employed to measure various parameters, including:

    • Thickness
    • Flatness
    • Parallelism
    • Runout
    • Concentricity
    • Taper
    • Positioning
    • Height
    • Depth
  4. Indicator Accessories: Various accessories are available to enhance the functionality and versatility of dial test indicators. These accessories may include magnetic bases, swivel clamps, extension rods, and different types of probe tips to adapt to specific measurement tasks.

  5. Types of Dial Indicators: There are several types of dial indicators, including:

    • Lever-Type Dial Indicators: These have a lever arm that extends and retracts as the probe moves. They are suitable for measuring linear displacements and deviations.
    • Plunger-Type Dial Indicators: Plunger-type indicators have a spring-loaded plunger that is pushed in or out as the probe contacts the object being measured.
    • Digital Dial Indicators: Some modern dial indicators come with digital displays for easier reading and data recording.
  6. Zero Adjustment: Dial test indicators often feature a zero adjustment knob or dial to set the indicator to zero at a specific reference point. This allows users to take relative measurements from that point.

  7. Calibration: Regular calibration and maintenance are crucial to ensure the accuracy and reliability of dial test indicators. Calibration helps verify that the instrument provides accurate measurements within its specified range.

In summary, dial test indicators are precision instruments used for dimensional measurement and quality control in industrial and scientific settings. Their high accuracy and versatility make them essential tools for ensuring the quality and precision of manufactured products and components.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best dial tests on the market
  

Türlen Test Dial Indicator 7 Jewels High Precision 0.0005" 0-15-0

Based on 341 reviews Check latest price

Product description



Professional Precision Tool!



Easy-to-read 1-3/16" diameter face, 0.0005" graduation, 5/32" and 3/8" diameter posts with dovetail clamp, and automatic reversing. Meets federal specifications for accuracy. Has .030 travel and a hair trigger response to the lightest pressure.



Features:



  • Easy to read 1-3/16'' white face with black markings
  • 7 JEWELS
  • Crisp graduations
  • Durable satin chrome finish
  • Graduations: 0.0005'' per line
  • Includes a padded case

  • Easy to read 1-3/16'' white face with black markings
  • 7 JEWELS
  • Crisp graduations 0.0005'' per line
  • Durable satin chrome finish
  • Includes a padded case

User questions & answers

Question: Will this dovetail fit on a bridgeport quill clamp
Answer: No
Question: Where can i get new tips for this indicator
Answer: You can get a turlen indicator tip set on E-bay 13.00 to 14.00 dollars free shipping. Go to E-bay and type in replacement tips for a turlen dial indicator. Hope this answers your question.
Question: Can you move the pin to a different angle? Or have to use dovetails
Answer: You have to use the dovetails and the dove tail pin in order to hold the instrument. There is three spots on the indicator to mount the dovetail pin. The dial indicator pin can also move in order to reach a certain spit you are trying to dial in.
Question: Where is this item manufactured
Answer: As the previous poster said there is nothing on the tool or the case saying where it is made. I Googled "TÜRLEN" and came up with a town in Switzerland. But I would also guess China.

Accusize Industrial Tools 0.060'' by 0.0005'' (Range by Graduation) Horizontal Test Indicator with 1.5'' Dial Diameter, 5256-2001

Accusize Co., Ltd.

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product features

Horizontal Test Indicator, Resolution: 0.0005'', in Fitted Case

  • Range: 0.060"
  • Resolution: 0.0005"
  • Graduation: 0.0005"
  • Dial reading: 0-150-0
  • Dial diameter: 1.5"
  • Jewelled movement
  • 210° Swivel arc
  • Revolution counter
  • Easy-to-read tilted dial
  • Tungsten carbide points: 0.080" diameter
  • Includes dovetail stems: 3/8" and 5/32"
  • Furnished in moulded case

Fowler Full Warranty 52-562-001-0 Horizontal White Dial X-Test Indicator, 0.0005" Graduation Interval, 0.060" Maximum Measuring Range, 1.5" Diameter

Fowler

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Fowler 52-562-001-0 Horizontal White Dial X-Test Indicator features jeweled movement , revolution counter, automatic reversal and 1.5" diameter. 0.060" range, twice the range of most indicators. 2 dovetail mounting locations and includes 2 dovetail clamps (3/8" + 5/32"). Adjustable bezel for easy zeroing. 0.080" and 0.120" carbide points, 0.040" steel points. This product has a 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision. If you experience any problem contact Fowler directly for warranty claims. Fowler, an American company, manufactures inspection and measurement instruments such as electronic indicators, calipers, bore gages and digital scales. The company founded in 1946, is headquartered in Newton, MA.

  • 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision
  • Range: .060"
  • Easy-to-read tilted dial
  • 2 dovetail locations and includes 2 dovetail clamps (3/8", 5/32")
  • Tungsten carbide points: 0.080" and 0.120" diameter. 0.040" in steel
  • 5/32" stem with 210° swivel arc

Fowler - 52-562-778-0 52-562-778 Black Face Dial Test Indicator, 0.030" Maximum Measuring Range, 0.0005" Graduation Interval, 1" Diameter

Fowler

Based on 29 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Fowler 54-565-233 High-Accuracy Ultima Bore Gauging System has a measurement range of 7.878 to 8.27" and is accurate to + or - 0.00006". Resolution is 0.00001" and the measuring depth is 3.15". The gauge has constant spring pressure for repeatability and Bower's FastFit measuring heads for rapid measurement. It uses a three-point contact system for the detection of lobing or triangular form error, and ceramic contact points provide high durability and stability with regard to thermal expansion. The Ultima system requires connection to a Sylvac or multiplexer display unit.This product has 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision. If you experience any problem contact Fowler directly for warranty claims.

  • 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision

INSIZE 6296-2 Dial Test Indicator Holder

INSIZE

Based on 94 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dial Test indicator holder, with dovetail groove.

  • Supplied with hex key
  • Length: 5. 354"
  • Stem hole diameter: 5/32"

Neoteck DTI Digital Dial Indicator 1''/25.4mm | Digital Probe Indicator Dial Test Gauge High Resolution: 0.0005''/0.01mm

Neoteck

Based on 449 reviews Check latest price
  • Aluminum Alloy Digital Dial Indicator-- Large LCD Display with 3 Digits, Be Used to Accurately Measure Small Linear Distances in Mechanical and Industrial Processes without Reading Errors, An Ideal Tool for Mechanical, Industrial Processes and Laboratory Use
  • 0 ~ 25.4 mm Measuring Range-- Measuring Range from 0 ~ 25.4 mm (0 ~ 1 inch), High Resolution up to 0.01 mm (0.0005")
  • Included Rear Cover-- Hole Diameter: 6.5mm, It is Removable and Can be Used on Different Magnetic Base Holder Stand
  • Inch/Metric Conversion-- Switchable between mm and inch, Suitable for All Kinds of Measurement
  • Zero Setting, with Conveniencet Ports-- RS232 Data Output Interface and LR44 Battery Compartment, East to Replace Battery( Note: It Does Not Remember Zero Setting Position After Auto Off)

User questions & answers

Question: I have purchased this indicator and works great. The item I have used this in is used upside down. Can it be bought with the read out flipped
Answer: Hello, thank you for your question. It has 54% of marine collagen.
Question: Where can I find longer tips? This thing is useless to me without them
Answer: Hello, thank you for your question. You should apply from the most liquid texture to the densest (for example toner, essence, ampoule, cream).
Question: Can you fully depress the plunger, Zero it out and it measures as it falls
Answer: I believe Mizon is cruelty free, and when animal products are used they are obtained humanely, but you may want to review this for yourself with an online search. Good luck!
Question: Where do i buy the serial cable for this
Answer: Hi, its ph is 6.0 to 7.0Thanks.

Product features

Features

Large LCD Display with 4 Digits

Measuring Range from 0 ~ 25.4 mm (0 ~ 1 inch)

High Resolution up to 0.01 mm (0.0005")

Switchable between mm and inch

Zero Setting

Material: Aluminum Alloy

Power: 1 x 1.5 V SR44 Button Cell Battery (Included)

Item Size: approx. 122 (L) x 55 (W) x 26 (D) mm (4.80 x 2.17 x 1.02 inch)

Item Weight: approx. 129 g (4.55 oz) (battery included)

Specifications

Measuring Range: 0 ~ 25.4 mm (0 ~ 1 inch)

Resolution: 0.01 mm (0.0005 inch)

Response Time: ≤ 0.5 m/s

Operating Temperature: 0 ~ 40 ºC (32 ~ 104 ºF)

Storage Temperature: -20 ~ 70 ºC (-4 ~ 158 ºF)

Relative Humidity: ≤ 80% R.H

Package Included

1 x Digital dial indicator

1 x Storage Case

1 x Rear Cover

1 x 1.5V Battery

1 x Instruction Manual

Mitutoyo 513-402-10E DIAL TI, BAS, STD 0.03", 0.0002" Accuracy, 0.0005", White

Mitutoyo

Based on 108 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DIAL TEST INDICATOR, BASIC SET, STANDARD, . 03 IN, . 0005 IN GRAD The QR code is used by the factory to accurately match the inspection certificate to the test indicator.

  • Contact point effective length is printed on the dial face
  • Increased impact resistance and durability of gears and bezel
  • Inspection certificate included with bidirectional evaluation
  • Increased scratch-resistance of crystal

User questions & answers

Question: Does this include a case of some kind
Answer: Yes, it comes with a plastic case.
Question: Does this indicator come with a carbide contact point or just a standard contact point
Answer: Standard carbide contact point provided
Question: Here is the Mitutoyo 513-402-10E manufactured
Answer: The face of the indicator says made in Japan.
Question: what inside the package included
Answer: The Mitutoyo 513-402-10E includes the "basic" set (.079" contact point, knurled clamp ring, 3/8" stem).

Mitutoyo 513-504T, .0001" X .010" Pocket Test Indicator Set, 0-5-0

Mitutoyo

Based on 62 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mitutoyo Pocket Test Indicator Set, Graduations: .0001", Range: .010", Dial Face: 0-5-0, Includes: Test indicator, .039", .079" and .118' carbide contact points, 5/32" and 3/8" stems, clamp nut, swivel clamp, 2 holding bars.

  • Jeweled bearings
  • Carbide contact points
  • O-Ring sealed bezel
  • Glare free, scratch resistant crystal
  • Supplied in fitted plastic case

User questions & answers

Question: Can I install a longer contact point, are they available
Answer: I don’t think so this is going to be much useful on driving but for computer usage it’s good
Question: can you use this to tram a mill
Answer: Arm length is 5.3in.
Question: Does this set come with a case
Answer: The coloring is minimal but from the front you see a very slight blue tint.
Question: what is the size of the dial face
Answer: I don’t know. There is no magnification on my daughters pair of glasses.

Accusize Industrial Tools 0.008'' by 0.0001'' Dial Test Indicator, P900-S109

Accusize Co,. Ltd.

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price
  • Range x Graduation: 0.008 x 0.0001''
  • Dovetails on top and back for all-around positioning
  • Includes two dovetail clamps (3/8'' & 5/32'')
  • Fully Jeweled movement
  • Contact Point adjustable 230 Degx

User questions & answers

Question: What is the diameter of the face
Answer: Clockwise tools has the same tool with data port and they sell the data cable, with that you can send the measurements directly to Microsoft excel with press of a button on the cable.

Test Indicator Flexible Arm Adjustable Magnetic Base Holder for Digital Level Dial Test Indicator Gauge 11 x 6.3cm

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Magnetic base holder also known as universal base holder is widely used in the machine manufacturing industry, which is also used in various scientific research institutions. There is a cylinder with a bar-shaped permanent magnet inside it. And the position of the outer base is a soft magnetic material, which is a kind of ferrite material that is easy to magnetize or demagnetize in the weak magnetic field.



Specifications:

Material: alloy

Color: red

Thread: M5

Size (L*W): 11*6.3cm/4.33*2.48in

Weight: Approx. 158g

 

Package Includes:

1 x Universal Magnetic Base Holder



Note:

1.  Due to the difference between the monitors and light effect, the picture may not reflect  the actual color of the item.

2.  Please allow 1-3mm error due to the manual measurement. Thanks for your understanding.



  • ♦Switch on/off magnetic base to move at any time without reaction force, avoiding damage to the gauge and working desk.
  • ♦Made of high quality alloy, the shell is rust-proof, durable and beautiful.
  • ♦Concise structure, easy to use and maintain, high sensitivity, stable and reliable.
  • ♦Flexible universal arm can be fixed at any angle, easy and quick to use.
  • ♦Widely used in mechanical correction and technical measurement,like dial indicator and lever dial indicator, etc

User questions & answers

Question: The description doesn't match the photos. Is this the adjustable arm, or the magnetic base
Answer: No my older dial gauge I was able to turn it 180 deg thus one can only be read from one way. Michael s Africa
Question: How long are the 2 arms - from center of axle to center of ball
Answer: There is surely somewhere online that sells precision tools that would carry different tips. I got mine from Bruwiler precise sales years ago
Question: Is this just the arm or it comes with the mag base
Answer: Hi, thank you for your time contacting us.Yes, this Digital Dial Indicator will go to zero when you press the ZERO Key.If there is any quality related issues, please email us at [email protected] with your Amazon order. We would be happy to exchange a new one for you or issue you full refund per our 18 months warranty.Neoteck [email protected]

SUXING Dial Test Indicator Stems with Knurled Clamp Ring Dovetail Grooved Stem (6mm Diameter Stem)

suxing

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dial Test Indicator Stems with Knurled Clamp Ring, ø6mm Dovetail-Grooved Stem

  • Dial Test Indicator Stems with Knurled Clamp Ring, ø6mm Dovetail-Grooved Stem
  • Fits MItutoyo dial test indicator etc.
  • Package:1 Stems with Knurled Clamp Ring.

Contact Points for Dial Test Indicator, Thread M1.6, Carbide Ball Tip 2 mm Diameter, 44.5 mm Long

ICOVITA

Product description

Contact Points for Dial Test Indicator Tungsten Steel, Thread M1.6, Carbide Ball Tip 2 mm Diameter, 44.5 mm Long

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