12 best indicator

An indicator, in the context of Test Indicators, Indicators Accessories, Dimensional Measurement, Test Measure Inspect, and Industrial Scientific fields, refers to a device or instrument used for measuring and displaying physical quantities, often in terms of length, position, or some other dimensional parameter. These tools are widely used in various industries for precision measurements. Here are some key points about indicators:

  1. Types of Indicators:

    • Dial Indicators: These have a graduated dial face and a needle that moves to indicate measurements. They are commonly used for measuring small distances or variations in position.
    • Digital Indicators: These display measurements on a digital screen. They provide precise readings and are often used in environments where high accuracy is crucial.
  2. Test Indicators:

    • Test indicators are a specific type of indicator used for measuring variations in a part's surface, checking for deviations from a desired standard or tolerance.
  3. Accessories:

    • Indicator accessories may include holders, stands, magnetic bases, and other fixtures that help secure the indicator in the correct position for measurements.
  4. Dimensional Measurement:

    • Indicators play a critical role in dimensional measurement, allowing for accurate assessments of lengths, heights, depths, and other dimensions of objects.
  5. Accuracy and Precision:

    • Indicators are designed to provide accurate and precise measurements. The degree of accuracy depends on the specific type and model of the indicator.
  6. Resolution:

    • Resolution refers to the smallest change in measurement that the indicator can detect. Digital indicators often have high resolution, allowing for extremely precise measurements.
  7. Application Areas:

    • Indicators are used in a wide range of industries including manufacturing, engineering, automotive, aerospace, and other fields where precise measurements are crucial.
  8. Calibration:

    • Regular calibration is essential to ensure that indicators provide accurate and reliable measurements over time. This involves adjusting the indicator to align with a known standard.
  9. Maintenance:

    • Proper care and maintenance of indicators are important to ensure their longevity and accuracy. This may involve regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection for signs of wear.
  10. Interchangeability of Accessories:

    • In many cases, indicator accessories are designed to be compatible with various models and brands of indicators, providing flexibility in their use.

Indicators are indispensable tools in industries where precision measurements are critical.They play a vital role in ensuring that manufactured parts and products meet the specified dimensional requirements, contributing to overall quality and accuracy in manufacturing processes.

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

Fowler - 52-520-109-0 52-520-109 AGD Dial Indicator, Black Face, 1" Travel, 2.25" Diameter

Fowler

Based on 200 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Fowler 52-520-109-0 AGD group 2 dial blackface indicator with, 1" travel, 001” reading and 2.25" diameter. This indicator has .001” graduation and 0-100 continuous reading. It comes with revolution counter hand and is supplied with lug backs positioned through 90° increments. Microfine graduations in black for continuous readings and red for balanced readings. Movement mounted independently from case on rigid supporting plate, ensuring perfect and permanent alignment. This dial indicator has Spindle rack & contact points of hardened stainless steel for long wear; cases forged brass, satin-chromed; gear wheels hard brass. Pinions of silver steel, hardened tempered and burnished on pivots; lapped on teeth. Extra long springs allow uniform pressure through entire travel of spindle. Bezel knurled; easily adjusted thru 360°. Meets AGD specifications. Group II & III gages—measuring pressure approximately 2 oz. except .0001" (.002mm) which is 5 oz. This indicator includes adjustable tolerance limit markers and comes in a fitted carton box. Full 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision. 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.

  • Fowler AGD dial blackface 1” indicator, 001” reading and 2.25" diameter
  • Revolution counter hand and comes with lug backs positioned through 90° increments
  • Spindle rack & contact points of hardened stainless steel for long wear; cases forged brass, satin-chromed; gear wheels hard brass
  • Extra long springs for uniform pressure through entire travel of spindle, bezel knurled; easily adjusted thru 360°
  • Full 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision, an American company

User questions & answers

Question: what is the stem (mounting) diameter
Answer: So it looks like somebody already answered this question, the options are for visibility the white face version stands out a bit more and so the price is more due to demand. NOT anything to do with racism or affirmative action.
Question: Does this product come with a calibration certificate
Answer: Encased in a foam "box" inside of a cardboard box. It doesn't include a plastic case. I kept the bottom of the foam box to set it in.
Question: Why is the "black face" option so much cheaper than the "white face" option? Is this racism or affirmative action
Answer: This indicator(asin:B07F6BRWDZ) has no certificate. But I have another indicator(asin: B077QB6DGQ) with a certificate, Features: —Accuracy:+/- 0.0005" . —A Case.Metal Lug Back + Flat back. —No Lock Screw. —Asin: B077QB6DGQ . It is worth $56.45 (discount price $39.95 now ). This gauge is so excellent, you will appreciate it. Welcome to contact me now! Welcome to order it! Good luck to you!
Question: How is this packaged
Answer: Yes, you can change the contact point, As long as the thread is 4-48. Another warning: Must not drive the thin rod when disassembly. It is best to hold the clamp to fix the movable thin rod, and another clamp gently loosen the screw of the contact point. Use cloth as a pad during clamp to avoid damage to parts. If you accidentally break the indicator, please contact us--the seller, you can get a new one free.

TESA Brown & Sharpe Brown & Sharpe, 01889023, Dial Test Indicator, 0.0004 in.

TESA Brown & Sharpe

Based on 105 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Brown & Sharpe Valueline Dial Test, Lever Type Indicator, 1.5" Dial Diameter, 0.0005" Dial Division, 0.030" Range, 0-15-0 Marking, Black Face.

  • Country Of Origin: China
  • Model Number: ERROR:#N/A
  • Item Product Dimension: 4.0" L x 2.25" W x 1.25" H
  • Item Package Weight: 0.25 lb

User questions & answers

Question: What is ball dimension on indicator
Answer: Possible but it must be in direct contact with the concrete. If this is a residential 1/2" line behind concrete, mounted not in the block, then no. If this is a line that is larger and it is in direct contact with the concrete, then the answer above is correct. The convection of the hw running and the conduction of the line will allow a temp difference on the concrete exterior and will possibly show its location and path.
Question: Is there a replacement number for the contact point on this indicator? i have purchased several now that have not fit
Answer: Yes
Question: Does this have a pivoting stem at the top
Answer: It should work
Question: I am looking for a replacement point for this Brown & Sharpe valueline indicator
Answer: It will detect even very slight temperature variations, so it might be possible.

TESA Brown & Sharpe 74.111370 Interapid 312 Dial Test Indicator, Horizontal Type, M1.7x4 Thread, 0.157" Stem Dia., White Dial, 0-15-0 Reading, 1.5" Dial Dia., 0-0.06" Range, 0.0005" Graduation, +/-0.01mm Accuracy - 312b-1

TESA Brown & Sharpe

Based on 90 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • TESA Interapid dial test indicator with rotatable, white face and carbide tip for measuring surface variations in narrow or recessed areas
  • Continuous clockwise pointer rotation and revolution counter, and ball-bearing lever system swivels through to 210 degrees
  • Dial face mounted parallel to the insert's axis, and has a dovetail and swiveling shank for mounting horizontally or vertically from the front, top, or back of the indicator
  • Monoblock body design with jeweled bearings in an isolated assembly for high accuracy, and full metal construction provides durability
  • Meets Deutsches Institut fur Normung (DIN) 2270, and Norme Francaise (French Institute for Standardization) NF E 11-053 standards, and includes a declaration of conformity

User questions & answers

Question: What is difference between 74.111370 vs
Answer: Brown & Sharpe Mfr Part #:599-7049
Question: Good morning, can the ball contact be adjusted? if so, will this affect accuracy
Answer: no just a dove tail
Question: Where can I purchase a replacement tip
Answer: I looked for one also with a 1.75" length, I could not find one. I also called vendors who carried the same test indicator and they could not locate one. I ended up buying a second indicator with the long "pin" (a different brand). Having said that I still like this one very much.
Question: can I get a .030 ball tip for this indicator and is it available
Answer: yes stand included and shipped with a solid wooden box

Mitutoyo 513-528T Pocket Type Dial Test Indicator, Full Set, Horizontal Type, 0.375" Stem Dia., White Dial, 0-20-0 Reading, 1.3" Dial Dia., 0-0.04" Range, 0.001" Graduation, +/-0.001" Accuracy

Mitutoyo

Based on 44 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Measuring force: 0.3N or less. It is Jeweled bearing type and Compact, Length: 18.7mm. Full Set includes Indicator, Spanner (part number 301336), 3/8" Diameter Stem (part number 102081) and .079" Diameter Carbide Contact Point, as well as .039" Diameter Carbide Contact Point and .118" Diameter Carbide Contact Point, .157" Diameter Stem (part number 102036), .315" Diameter Holding Rod (part number 900211), 4" Length Holding Bar and Swivel Clamp for .157" Diameter, 3/8" Diameter, Dovetail (part number 900322).

  • Jeweled bearings assure higher sensitivity and accuracy. reversible measuring direction
  • Two holding bars are supplied (full sets only)
  • Fully adjustable bezel/dial face
  • Contact point is adjustable within 220 degree
  • Bezel is sealed with on o-ring to keep out water/oil

User questions & answers

Question: what is the thread for the tip? M
Answer: The thread measures 1.65mm od of thread X .337 mm pitch
Question: you have it in metric unit
Answer: The metric unit is a different part number. I'd advise since there a few different models with different specs go to mitutoyo usa and download the catalogue to see which is right for you.
Question: Does it come with a case
Answer: Yes, a cheap plastic one
Question: What are the dimensions of the rectangular attachment (second from the right in the first image
Answer: .245 x .493 x 3.945. mine is anyway

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

Mitutoyo 513-518T, .001" X .040" Pocket Test Indicator Set, 0-20-0

Mitutoyo

Based on 41 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mitutoyo Pocket Test Indicator Set, Graduations: .001", Range: .040", Dial Face: 0-20-0, 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

Mitutoyo"2416S" Dial Indicator, 4-48 UNF Thread, 0.375" Stem Dia,"Lug Back," White Dial, 0-100 Reading, 2.244" Dial Dia, 0-1" Range, 0.001" Graduation, -0.002" Accuracy

Mitutoyo

Based on 124 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • Standard dial indicator with a 0.375" diameter stem, a #4-48 UNF contact point thread mount, and choice of white or black face, for measuring surface variations in fractional inches
  • Units displayed in fractional inches, and has a rotating bezel and limit markers
  • Choice of flat or lug back for a variety of mounting options
  • Stem design provides long clamping range, no through screw-hole on the frame for dust- and water resistance, and involute curved lifting lever provides smooth movement of spindle and dovetail joint for tool-less connection
  • Meets ANSI standards, Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) B7503-1997, and American Gage Design (AGD) standards for face and thread size, and bezel and stem diameter

User questions & answers

Question: the tip can be replaced so I can put a longer one
Answer: The Mitutoyo box dimensions are 7.6" Long x 2.5" High x 4" Wide.
Question: is the indicator shock proof
Answer: The bezel is plastic.
Question: What are the dimensions for the storage box
Answer: M8 1.25 thread 8.6mm length of threaded shaft
Question: Is the bezel made of glass or plastic
Answer: Hello, the top above the screen is 0.359", the two parts that below the screen are 0.3735" and 0.1765". Thank you

Dial Indicator, Flexible Strong Magnetic Stand Base Holder with Lever Dial Test Indicator Gauge Precision Scale and Installation Accessories

Walfront

Based on 45 reviews Check latest price
  • ►Move Base Easily -- Switch on/off to move the base without reaction force, avoiding damaging the gauge and working desk.
  • ►Permanent Magnet -- The base is equipped with a permanent magnet, convenient to holding lever indicator on a machine tool.
  • ►Easy & Quick Fixed -- Flexible arm can be fixed at any angle, easy and quick to use.
  • ►Maintain Use Easily-- With simple structure, easy to use and maintain, fine adjustment universal swivel clamp.
  • ►Dial Test Indicator -- Lever dial test indicator is designed to measure surface variations in narrow or recessed areas.

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 543-783B Absolute Digimatic Indicator, ID-S-Type, Flat Back, #4-48 UNF Thread, 3/8" Stem Dia., 0-0.5" Range, 0.0005" Resolution, +/-0.0008" Accuracy, Meets IP42 Specifications

Mitutoyo

Based on 36 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • Electronic indicator measures 0 to 0.5" (0 to 12.7mm) with 0.0005" (0.01mm) resolution and + or - 0.0008" accuracy, for measuring short, linear distances in mechanical engineering, machining, and manufacturing applications
  • LCD displays in both inches and metric units, and indicator has a flat back for stem/plate mounting
  • Absolute electrostatic capacitance-type linear encoder for accurate measurements
  • 3/8" diameter stem and a #4-48 UNF contact point thread mount
  • Ingress Protection certified IP42 for protection against objects greater than 1mm and dripping water

User questions & answers

Question: Mitutoyo's site recommends the 905338 (straight no button) cable. Does the on/off button double as a data send button if you don't hold the button
Answer: No is not the same 513-402 is so call anti- magnetic, cheap plastic face very light, 20 years buying Mitutoyo worst indicator I don’t use it daily only for inspection. I ended up buying Türlen Horizontal Dial Test Indicator Graduation 0.0005" Range 0.060" 1.5" Head for daily use great indicator no problems 1 year and half and still going
Question: Please forgive the newbie question: How does this get mounted? I would like to use it with a mag base indicator arm. Thanks
Answer: It has to do with the way the micrometer works and is mounted. The horizontal unit measures with a level arm and the vertical unit measures with a plunger. They both will work but I would choose the vertical unit myself as it is easier to mount with a magnetic base.
Question: what cable is used for data output
Answer: Yes I have... I've been a machinist for 18 years... Mitutoyo makes awesome micrometers and calipers. The older indicators are awesome and we'll built, but I bought this exact one and it didn't last long... I was very disappointed to be honest... When it comes to indicators you can't beat Brown and Sharpe Best Test or Interapid... Buy the brown and sharp... As I mentioned above buy everything else Mitutoyo...
Question: Where and how is the battery installed
Answer: It will move freely with your finger to were you want and stay there ........no loosening any nuts is required at all .......

Product features

Mitutoyo Absolute Digimatic Indicator

  • After the initial zero-setting with the Origin button, the repeated absolute positioning is no longer necessary over entire battery life.
  • Unlimited response speed eliminates overspeed errors
  • Similar in size to standard Series 2 dial indicators.
  • SPC data output.

Function

Origin-set, Zeroset, Counting direction switching, Power On/Off, Data output, inch/mm conversion (on inch/metric models only) Alarm: Low voltage, counting value composition error, over-flow error.

Mitutoyo 513-473-10E DIAL TI, BAS, STD 0.008", 0.00004" Accuracy, 0.0001", White

Mitutoyo

Based on 30 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DIAL TEST INDICATOR, BASIC SET, STANDARD, . 008 IN, . 0001 IN GRAD, RUBY TIP, WHITE DIAL 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: Hi, you claim on this page that this indicator is accurate to .00004", however on your website you claim accuracy to .0001". Is there a typo
Answer: They fit my head and I'm approx size 8 hat
Question: Does it come with any sort of case or box / holder
Answer: I can get them in Red, but I don't stock them in red and I don't have them listed on Amazon.

Amazon Exclusive 1-1/5" Dial Test Indicator, 0.0005" Graduation Interval, 0.060" Maximum Measuring Range, 1.5" Diameter, Range .060".0005" Graduation, Copper Alloy, White

Gold Plus

Based on 37 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Amazon Exclusive 1-1/2" diameter dial test indicator with 0.060" maximm measuring range, 0-15-0 dial reading, 0.0005" graduations . The 0.060" range is twice the range of most indicators. It features jeweled movement, revolution counter, easy-to-read tilted dial and automatic reversal. It has 2 dovetail mounting locations and includes 2 dovetail clamps (3/8" + 5/32"). Adjustable bezel for easy zeroing. 0.080" and 0.120" tungsten carbide points, 0.040" steel points. 210° Swivel arc with 5/32" stem and 3/8" bushing adaptor. This product has a full 2 year warranty offered by Gold Plus. If you experience any problem contact directly for warranty claims. Balanced dials are used for reading the difference from a specific surface reference point. Continuous dials are used for direct readings and usually have a larger measurement range than balanced dials. Dial indicators are also called dial gauges, probes, and electronic indicators. These precision instruments measure small linear distances and object sizes. The dial magnifies the measurement so that it can be easily read by the human eye. Frequently used in manufacturing, laboratories, and other industrial or mechanical fields, dial indicators are used anywhere a small measurement must be found and recorded or transferred, such as checking the variation in tolerance of a workpiece. Standard dial indicators measure the displacement along the axis of the indicator. Dial test indicators are very similar to dial indicators, except that the axis of measurement is perpendicular to the axis of the indicator. Dial and dial test indicators can be analog, with a mechanical dial, or electronic, with a digital display. Some electronic models transfer the data electronically to a computer for recording and potential manipulation.

User questions & answers

Question: Have you been pleased with the accuracy of this indicator? Tested against interapid
Answer: Yes I have been pleased with the accuracy of this indicator. I use it to test the accuracy of my CNC router and tool runout, and I am able to hit zero repeatedly. I don't find any discrepancy in its measurement.
Question: Where can I buy replacement tips for this indicator? Does anyone have a link
Answer: Yes you need to check the thread, but the overall length of the tip matters. It needs to be the same. Stick a longer or shorter tip on a test indicator and it changes it's calibration. You must put the same length tip back on.
Question: Does the bezel turn freely or is it to tight
Answer: It turns so you can set where 0 is.
Question: Where is this made
Answer: Not sure as it is at work. Probably China. I've used it for a few months now and it's been great.

Product features

Amazon Exclusive 1-1/2" Diameter Dial Test Indicator

Amazon Exclusive 1-1/2" diameter dial test indicator with 0.060" maximm measuring range, 0-15-0 dial reading, 0.0005" graduations . The 0.060" range is twice the range of most indicators. It features jeweled movement, revolution counter, easy-to-read tilted dial and automatic reversal. It has 2 dovetail mounting locations and includes 2 dovetail clamps (3/8" + 5/32"). Adjustable bezel for easy zeroing. 0.080" and 0.120" tungsten carbide points, 0.040" steel point. 210° Swivel arc with 5/32" stem and 3/8" bushing adaptor. This product has a full 2 year warranty offered by Gold Plus.

Comparative Measurements

Measure readings of parts as compared to a master.

Runout Checking

Measure horizontally or vertically for runout of cylindrical parts.

Sweeping an Inside Diameter

Use for locating the high or low point of a diameter.

What's in the Box

1-1/2" Dial test indicator with 0.080" carbide ball contact, 3/8" Bushing adaptor, 2 Extra contacts (0.040" steel and 0.120" carbide), 2 Dovetail clamps (3/8" + 5/32"), 1 Contact point wrench, Certificate of inspection and accuracy.

3 Supplied Contact Points

0.040" steel, 0.080" and 0.120" carbide contact points.

Adjustable Swivel

210° Adjustable Swivel.

2 Dovetail Clamp Locations

2 dovetail clamps: 3/8" + 5/32" for a variety of mounting possibilities.

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