Ring gauges compare dimensions of cylindrical or tapered components. Various types of ring gauges such as go, no-go and master ring gauges are available in the market. While a go ring gauge measures the maximum outer diameter (OD) of the round bar or component, a no-go ring gauge measures minimum internal diameter (ID). For calibration of other gauging systems, a master ring gauge is the best option.

Depending on your measuring and inspection requirement, you can choose a tungsten carbide, ceramic or steel ring gauge.

Some important parameters you must consider before purchasing a ring gauge are:

1. Range of nominal dimensions
2. Type of ring gauge: go, no-go or master
3. Tolerance class: class X, class XX, class Y or class ZZ
4. Repeatability of the measurement for the ring gauge

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose an appropriate gauge from reputable ring gauge manufacturers

Once you have identified your measuring and inspection requirements, review different industrial ring gauges available in the market.

I recommend: Micron Company, a reputable manufacturer of gauges, provides carbide, chrome and steel ring gauges. Zero Check offers carbide ring gauges with different tolerance grades including class XX, class ZZ and class Y. Ingram Gages Company is another ring gauge manufacturer that offers metric ring gauges for cylindrical and threaded components. Furthermore, you can buy internal groove ring gauges at Dyer Company, a ring gauge supplier for the aerospace, automotive and food industries.

Buy ring gauges from ring gauge distributors or retailers

You can compare ring gauges based on their features and prices at distributors or retailers' websites.

I recommend: Measure-All is a reputable distributor of gauges including ring gauges. You can also buy cylindrical, thread or master setting ring gauges at MeasureNOW. Additionally, you can refer to the list of manufacturers of ring gauges at GlobalSpec and ThomasNet.

Buy a specialty customized ring gauge

If products by various ring gauge suppliers do not meet your requirements, opt for a customized ring gauge set.

I recommend: Vermont Precision Tools provides customized go, no-go and master ring gauges. Landau Gage manufactures customized ring gauges for the aerospace and automotive industries. Thread Check, a reputable manufacturer of high quality gauging and inspection equipment, offers thread and metric gauges.

Calibrate your ring gauge periodically

As a ring gauge is a measurement and inspection tool, calibrate ring gauges by experts from calibration services providers. This is very important, as the smallest inaccuracy of a ring gauge may result in rejection of other components.

I recommend: Meyer Gage, a reputable supplier of chrome, steel and carbide ring gauges, also provides calibration services for ring gauges. WESTport is another ring gauge manufacturer that supplies gauge calibration and repair services. You can also get your ring gauges calibrated from the expert team at Greenslade & Company.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Store ring gauges as per the manufacturer's guidelines, as improper handling and storing hampers the measuring capabilities of the gauges.