Indicators - Test
Indicators - Test
A dial indicator can't check runout on a part spinning in a chuck. Test indicators solve that with a small pivoting lever instead of a plunger, reaching into tight spaces and reading sideways motion, the standard tool for runout, alignment, and parallelism. Fowler's line runs from standard horizontal models to IP65 coolant-resistant, premium X-Test and Swiss Girod indicators, and Bluetooth electronic versions.
How to choose
Range
Standard vs. X-Test extended range
The X-Test line reads roughly twice the range of a standard test indicator at a similar price point, which means fewer repositioning moves when checking a feature with more runout than a standard indicator's range covers. Both include a NIST Certificate of Calibration.
Orientation
Horizontal vs. vertical
Horizontal test indicators read with the lever moving side to side, the more common orientation for general setup and runout checks. Vertical models like the Swiss Girod read with the lever moving up and down, useful when the geometry of the setup doesn't allow a horizontal approach.
Environment and data
IP65 coolant resistance and Bluetooth
IP65-rated test indicators hold up to coolant spray at the spindle, where a standard indicator's movement could be compromised over time. The Bluetooth QuadraTest line adds wireless data output on top of that, for shops that need the reading in an SPC system rather than read by eye.
Common questions
When the space is too tight for a plunger-style dial indicator, or when checking a spinning part for runout. The test indicator's small lever reaches where a dial indicator's plunger can't, and reads sideways motion a plunger isn't built to measure.
Roughly double the reading range at a comparable price, plus a NIST Certificate of Calibration included as standard. It's the better choice whenever the feature being checked has more runout than a standard indicator's range comfortably covers.
If the indicator will be used at the spindle with coolant running, yes. An IP65 rating protects the internal movement from the exposure a standard test indicator isn't built to handle. For setup work away from coolant, a standard indicator is fine.