Usually, dial test indicators are similar to‘clocks�?because of
the appearance of the dial and pointer. They measure the
displacement of a plunger or stylus and indicate the magnitude of
the displacement on a dial by means of a rotating pointer. There
are two main types of dial test indicator.
Plunger type
This type of instrument relies upon a rack and pinion mechanism to
change the linear (straight-line) movement of the plunger into
rotary motion for the pointer. A gear train is used to magnify the
movement of the pointer. This type of instrument has a long
plunger movement and is , therefore, fitted with a secondary scale
to count the number of revolution made by the main pointer. A
large range of dial range of dial diameters and markings is
available. Dial test indicators are also widely used for setting
up workpieces, and aligning work holding devices on machine
tools.
Lever type
This type of instrument uses a lever and scroll to magnify the
displacement of the stylus. Compared with the plunger type, the
lever type instrument has only a limited range of movement.
However, it is extremely popular for inspection and machine
setting because it is more compact and the scale is more
conveniently positioned for these applications.