Fasteners are small components in machines and equipment, but they have outsized importance when it comes to securing and adjusting parts or assemblies. Whether they are holding parts together, maintaining tension in an assembly, or snugging up a connection in a nut-and-bolt configuration, thread dimensions are critical to the fit and function of screws, bolts, and nuts.
To determine if screws, nuts, and threaded components are manufactured to specifications and if they will fit together as intended, manufacturers use fixed limit thread gages. It follows that a well-made thread gage is critical to thread metrology and part verification. Therefore, it’s important to select a gage manufacturer that makes high-quality, reliable thread gages.
Here, we’ll look at some factors you should consider when selecting a thread gage supplier.
Considerations When Choosing a Gage Supplier
Product quality and precision are not always consistent across manufacturers. With something as important as thread metrology, choosing an experienced and reliable supplier is key. Here’s what to look for:
Quality and Accuracy
The most important consideration is the quality and accuracy of a gage. If it isn’t accurate or made well enough to withstand heavy use, it’s not suitable for your metrology program. Always look for suppliers with strict quality control standards and procedures.
Product Range and Variety
A supplier that offers a range of thread gage products and that works with many industries will have a broad understanding of its customers’ needs and requirements. But some degree of specialization is also important because that indicates depth of experience and technical skill.
For example, Gage Assembly Company specializes in thread gages and has an extensive catalog of standard ring and plug gages in inch, metric, Acme, and other units of measure.
Technical Expertise and Support
Look for a thread gage manufacturer that provides detailed information about their products, capabilities, and quality processes. Not only does this show they are knowledgeable, but it demonstrates their willingness to support you as a customer. Consider if their sales team and engineers can answer questions about different gage products to determine the right solution for your application. Suppliers invested in helping you succeed will go beyond sales to ensure you get the most from their products.
Customization Options
Sometimes an off-the-shelf option isn’t the best fit. Custom-manufactured thread gages are designed to fit your application and your process, which means you get more accurate results and better-quality finished products and assemblies. Full-service suppliers like Gage Assembly use CNC and manual thread grinding machines as well as calibrated inspection equipment to ensure each gage is accurate and well-made. Look for a supplier that will work with you to understand your requirements and find a tailored solution.
Timely Delivery and Inventory Management
Receiving your metrology tools on time is essential to avoiding delays, downtime, and increased time to market. Your gage manufacturer should understand how their work impacts your overall timeline and prioritize on-time delivery whenever possible.
Competitive Pricing and Cost-Effectiveness
While price should not be the only factor in your decision, finding a supplier who offers competitive pricing without sacrificing quality is important. Compare prices from several suppliers to ensure you are making the best investment in terms of product quality, ease of use, and availability. Sometimes paying more upfront saves over time if fewer replacements are needed.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
When it comes to reputation, instead of taking a gage manufacturer’s word for it, do your due diligence and get outside opinions. Online reviews are one option, but you can also ask for customer referrals, order a single sample item, or ask around in your professional network for feedback. Pay attention to how others describe their experiences and level of satisfaction with both products and customer service.
After-Sales Service and Warranty
Your relationship with your gage supplier shouldn’t end after the sale. Inquire about their after-sales service and warranty policies. A supplier that provides solid support and a comprehensive warranty gives you peace of mind, ensuring that any issues you encounter are handled quickly and effectively.
Making the Right Choice for Your Gage Supplier
In manufacturing, quality has a cumulative effect that extends back from a finished product to its assemblies, components, and fasteners. Metrology is a critical piece of that quality chain, and Gage Assembly is committed to providing customers with high-quality, accurate thread gages and outstanding customer service.
Contact us to learn more about our product line and custom capabilities, or request a quote or a copy of our catalog to get started.
