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About Feeler Gauge

Feeler Gauge: Introduction

Feeler Gauges, sometimes called Thickness Gauges or Feeler Gages, are mechanical measurement instruments that are used to provide a precise reading of the gap that exists between two parallel surfaces, such as the clearance between two machine parts or elements. Feeler gauges are typically sold as what is termed a set, with each set consisting of a series of dimensionally accurate pieces of Feeler Strips Or Shim Stock that are joined using a common shaft and nut or riveted connection. The individual pieces, which are called blades, leaves, or plates, have very precisely calibrated thicknesses and can fold or fan out as needed when a measurement is to be taken, and can be recessed back on top of one another to fit into the gauge handle, which serves to protect the individual blades from damage when the tool is not in use. The blades are typically produced from a high carbon steel material. The use of high carbon steel is designed to ensure that the blade material will not compress during the measurement process, thus assuring that the gap measurements are accurate. Some models have a locking nut that can be tightened to maintain the blade position during use.
Each blade is annotated with its thickness designation. Different Feeler Gauge sets are sold with varying numbers of blades in them, which then corresponds to the overall gap range for which the gauge can be utilized.

Uses And Applications Of Feeler Gauges

Feeler gauges find application wherever there is a need to accurately establish the size of the clearance or gap between two mating machine elements or surfaces and where other measuring devices, such as calipers or a steel rule, are not able to be employed.They are commonly used across a wide range of industries such as aerospace, automotive, pharmaceutical, oil & gas, and general industrial machining. In automotive applications, feeler gauges can be used to set the valve clearance between the rocker arms and the valve stem and to adjust the spark plug gap. In oil refinery applications, wall slot size in reactor vessels can be checked with a feeler gauge. Manufacturers of tapes and films may use feeler gauges to set uniform gaps on extruder dies and rollers across the full length of the die set.

Types of Feeler Gauges

There Are Many Different Types Of Feeler Gauges.

1. Straight Leaf Feeler Gauge

A Straight Leaf Feeler Gauge Has Leaves That Are Consistently Parallel.

2. Tapered Leaf Feeler Gauge

A Tapered Leaf Feeler Gauge Has Leaves That Thin Out Towards The Tips.

3. Feeler Strips Or Shim Stock

It Work Identically To Feeler Gauge Blades.

The Exception Is That They Are Not Connected In a Set,

And Either End Can Be Used To Measure.

They Are Separate For Quick And Easy Use.

4. Metric Feeler Gauge

It Gives Measurements In Hundredths Of a Millimeter.

5. Imperial Feeler Gauge

Its Gives Measurements In Thousandths Of An Inch.

6. Go-No-Go Feeler Gauge

It Has A Thick Base And a Thinner Tip. The Thinner End Of The Gauge Can 'Go' Into The Gap And The Thicker Body Will Not 'No Go".

7. Offset Feeler Gauge

In This Feeler Gauge Blades Are Bent Towards The Tip For Easier Access To Most Motor Vehicle Applications And Work In Restrictive Areas.

How to Use Feeler Gauge

A Feeler Gauge , Feeler Strips Or Shim Stock is used to measure gap widths or clearances between two parts. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

1. Select the Blades

Choose the appropriate blades from the feeler gauge set. They come in various thicknesses, and you can use one blade or combine multiple blades to achieve the desired measurement.

2. Insert the Blades

Gently insert the selected blade or blades into the gap you want to measure. Make sure it fits snugly but without force.

3. Check the Fit

The correct blade will slide in with a slight resistance. If it’s too tight, use a thinner blade. If it’s too loose, use a thicker blade or add more blades until you achieve a proper fit.

4. Read the Measurement

Check the thickness of the blade you are using or the combined thickness of multiple blades. This measurement indicates the size of the gap.

5. Adjust if Necessary

If you are measuring gaps for adjustment purposes (e.g., setting valve clearances), use the feeler gauge to ensure the gap falls within specified tolerances.

Always ensure the blades are clean and free of debris before and after use to maintain accuracy and prolong the life of the gauge.

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