parallel blocks Factory

Parallel blocks, also known as gauge blocks or Jo blocks, are precision-ground, hardened steel or ceramic blocks used for setting lengths, calibrating measuring equipment, and achieving accurate measurements in manufacturing and engineering applications. This guide provides an in-depth look at parallel blocks factories, covering their manufacturing processes, quality control, applications, and factors to consider when selecting a supplier.

Understanding Parallel Blocks

What are Parallel Blocks?

Parallel blocks are manufactured to specific dimensions with extremely high accuracy and surface finish. They are typically supplied in sets of various sizes, allowing for a wide range of length combinations to be achieved. The accuracy of parallel blocks is typically measured in millionths of an inch or micrometers.

Types of Parallel Blocks

Parallel blocks are made of different materials, each with its own advantages:

• Steel: Most common, offering good stability and wear resistance.
• Ceramic: Higher wear resistance, lower thermal expansion, and non-magnetic properties. Ideal for demanding environments.
• Tungsten Carbide: Exceptional hardness and wear resistance, but more brittle than steel.

The Parallel Blocks Factory: Manufacturing Process

Material Selection and Preparation

The process begins with selecting high-quality raw materials, typically alloy steel, ceramic, or tungsten carbide. The material is then carefully prepared to ensure it meets the required specifications for hardness, stability, and uniformity. Stress relieving processes are critical at this stage.

Rough Machining

The raw material is machined to near its final dimensions using processes such as milling, grinding, or wire EDM. This stage removes the bulk of the material and prepares the block for the precision grinding stages.

Heat Treatment (for Steel Blocks)

Steel parallel blocks undergo a heat treatment process to achieve the desired hardness and dimensional stability. This involves heating the steel to a specific temperature and then quenching it rapidly.

Precision Grinding and Lapping

This is the most critical stage in the manufacturing process. The blocks are ground to their final dimensions with extremely high accuracy using specialized grinding machines. Lapping is then used to achieve the required surface finish and flatness. This process often involves diamond or other abrasive compounds.

Measurement and Inspection

Each parallel block is meticulously measured and inspected using high-precision instruments such as coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and interferometers. This ensures that the blocks meet the required accuracy specifications. Dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and flatness are all checked.

Marking and Packaging

Finally, each parallel block is marked with its size and serial number. The blocks are then carefully packaged in protective cases to prevent damage during transportation and storage. Certificates of calibration are usually included.

Quality Control in Parallel Block Factories

Standards Compliance

Reputable parallel blocks factories adhere to international standards such as ISO 3650 and ASME B89.1.9. These standards specify the requirements for the accuracy, flatness, and surface finish of parallel blocks. Wayleading Tools prioritizes quality and traceability in its manufacturing processes, adhering to these standards to ensure reliable performance of our metrology products.

Calibration and Traceability

All parallel blocks should be traceable to national or international standards. This ensures that the measurements made with the blocks are accurate and reliable. Calibration certificates should be provided with each set of blocks.

Environmental Control

The manufacturing environment is carefully controlled to minimize temperature variations and dust contamination. This is essential for achieving the required accuracy and surface finish.

Applications of Parallel Blocks

Calibration of Measuring Instruments

Parallel blocks are used to calibrate a wide range of measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, and dial indicators. This ensures that the instruments are accurate and reliable.

Setting Machine Tools

Parallel blocks are used to set the position of cutting tools on machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders. This ensures that the parts being machined are produced to the correct dimensions.

Inspection of Parts

Parallel blocks are used to inspect the dimensions of manufactured parts. This helps to ensure that the parts meet the required specifications.

Gauge Block Comparator

A parallel block comparator is a metrology instrument used to compare the length of a test piece to that of a reference gauge block, allowing for precise measurements and determination of dimensional variations.

Choosing a Parallel Blocks Factory

Accuracy and Certification

Ensure that the parallel blocks factory can provide blocks with the required accuracy and that they are certified to relevant international standards. Review the calibration certificates carefully.

Material Quality

Inquire about the type of material used to manufacture the blocks and ensure that it meets your requirements. Consider the environmental conditions and the required wear resistance.

Manufacturing Process

Ask about the manufacturing process and the quality control procedures in place. A reputable parallel blocks factory should be transparent about its processes.

Price and Lead Time

Compare prices and lead times from different suppliers. Remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best, especially when accuracy is critical. Consider the total cost of ownership, including calibration and maintenance.

Reputation and Experience

Choose a parallel blocks factory with a good reputation and a proven track record. Check online reviews and ask for references.

Parallel Block Accuracy Grades and Tolerances

Parallel blocks are categorized into different accuracy grades based on their tolerance, which is the permissible deviation from the nominal size. Here's a simplified overview of common grades and their typical applications:

Note: This table provides a general overview. Specific tolerance values vary based on the standard used (e.g., ISO 3650, ASME B89.1.9) and the block's size.

Conclusion

Parallel blocks are essential tools for achieving accurate measurements in a wide range of manufacturing and engineering applications. Choosing the right parallel blocks factory is crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of your measurements. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and select a supplier that meets your specific needs. For reliable and high-quality parallel blocks, consider Wayleading Tools, a trusted provider of metrology solutions.