Tech Insights

dial indicator

Last updated May 16, 2025, generated by Sumble

What is dial indicator?

A dial indicator is a precision measuring instrument used to accurately measure small linear distances or variations. It consists of a dial face with a needle that is moved by a plunger or spindle. It is commonly used in manufacturing, machining, and quality control to measure runout, flatness, straightness, and other dimensional characteristics of parts.

Find organizations using dial indicator on Sumble →

What other technologies are related to dial indicator?

dial indicator Competitor Technologies

Micrometer

Micrometers are used for precise measurements of dimensions and can sometimes be used as an alternative to dial indicators, depending on the application.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 5% (224) of relevant job posts

Caliper

Calipers are used for measuring distances, and while less precise than dial indicators in certain applications, they offer a simpler alternative for basic dimensional checks.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 5% (110) of relevant job posts

profilometer

Profilometers are used to measure surface roughness and profiles with high precision. While a dial indicator can measure displacement, a profilometer is a more specialized and higher resolution tool for surface characterization.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 7% (71) of relevant job posts

calipers

Calipers are used for measuring distances, and while less precise than dial indicators in certain applications, they offer a simpler alternative for basic dimensional checks.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 1% (222) of relevant job posts

optical comparator

Optical comparators project a magnified image of a part for measurement, and they can be used as an alternative to dial indicators for certain types of measurements, especially those involving complex geometries.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 2% (76) of relevant job posts

micrometers

Micrometers are used for precise measurements of dimensions and can sometimes be used as an alternative to dial indicators, depending on the application.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 1% (156) of relevant job posts

CMM

Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) are used for highly accurate dimensional measurements in 3D space and can perform measurements that would otherwise require dial indicators, often with greater automation and precision.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 0% (51) of relevant job posts

dial indicator Complementary Technologies

surface plate

Surface plates provide a precise reference surface for using a dial indicator, allowing accurate measurements. They are used together for dimensional measurement.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 19% (70) of relevant job posts

height gage

Height gages often use dial indicators to measure vertical distances accurately. The dial indicator is the sensor.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 9% (74) of relevant job posts

gage blocks

Gage blocks are used as standards for calibrating and verifying the accuracy of dial indicators and other measurement devices.

mentioned alongside dial indicator in 10% (67) of relevant job posts