Omar Khalid
Plastigauge is a plastic-based tool used to measure the clearance between two surfaces, such as bearing surfaces on a crankshaft. It is a one-time-use tool that comes in coloured strips with varying measurement ranges. To use Plastigauge, the surfaces between which the measurement is to be made are separated, and the Plastigauge strip is positioned. The surfaces are then returned to their standard position, and the Plastigauge is allowed to spread across the surface as a stripe or band. The width of the Plastigauge stripe is then matched against a calibrated gauge card to determine the clearance. Plastigauge is particularly useful for measuring clearances in large bearings and separation in moulding tools, offering a quick and simple way to obtain measurements during the assembly process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use | To measure the clearance between two surfaces, such as the bearing surfaces on a crankshaft |
| Flatness Measurement | Yes |
| Measurement Range | 0.025mm - 1.750mm (0.001" - 0.070") |
| Temperature Range | 0°C to 35°C |
| Reusability | Not reusable |
| Precision | Low, provides a tolerance range rather than a specific measurement |
| Speed | Quick to use and check measurements |
| Safety | Substances used in preparation are not classified as hazardous |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the plastic gauge
To prepare a plastic gauge for reading, it is important to follow a few key steps to ensure accurate measurements. Firstly, it is recommended to separate the surfaces between which the measurement will be made. This involves creating some space between the two surfaces to allow for the insertion of the plastic gauge strip.
For the next step, you will need to prepare the plastic gauge strip itself. It is recommended to adhere the strip to one of the surfaces with a small amount of mineral grease. This will help keep the strip in place and ensure accurate results. You should also apply a silicone release agent to the other surface to facilitate the removal of the plastic gauge after taking the measurement.
Once the strip is in place, return the surfaces to their standard position. This will allow the plastic gauge to be compressed between the two surfaces, providing an accurate representation of the clearance between them. Now, reopen the surfaces to reveal the plastic gauge, which will have spread or deformed across the surface as a stripe or band.
It is important to note that the plastic gauge strip is a one-time-use tool, so it is crucial to ensure that the surfaces are properly prepared and cleaned before inserting the strip. Any residue or contaminants on the surfaces can affect the accuracy of the measurement. Additionally, make sure to select the appropriate range of measurement for your plastic gauge, denoted by the letter designation on the strip.
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$11.49
Position the gauge
Plastigauge is a measuring tool used for measuring plain bearing clearances, such as in engines. It is a plastic-based material that is used to measure the clearance between two surfaces. It is particularly useful for measuring clearances in split bearings or in situations where a feeler gauge cannot be inserted.
To position the Plastigauge strip, first, separate the surfaces between which the measurement is to be made. Trim a length of Plastigauge to fit across the journal, using grease to hold it in place. It is important to ensure that the journal is clean and free of any oil or debris before placing the Plastigauge strip.
The Plastigauge strip should be laid parallel to the crank. If looking at the end of the crank with the motor upside down, the Plastigauge should be in the 12 o'clock position. This ensures that it does not get smeared when tightening down the cap. You can use a small amount of mineral grease or a dab of oil to stick the Plastigauge strip in place.
For large bearings, it is recommended to insert two or more gauges around the bearing to get multiple measurements. Plastigauge should be positioned in regions where distortion is suspected, and any variations in flatness will be shown by variations in the width of the compressed Plastigauge strip.
Once the Plastigauge strip is in place, return the surfaces to their standard position. Then, reopen the surfaces to reveal the Plastigauge, which will have spread across the surface as a stripe or band.
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Reassemble surfaces
Reassembling surfaces after using Plastigauge:
Plastigauge is a plastic-based material used to measure the clearance between two surfaces. It is a one-time-use tool that comes in coloured strips. To use Plastigauge, a small strip of the material is placed between two surfaces, and the fasteners are tightened to their specified torque. The Plastigauge then compresses and spreads out between the surfaces. The fasteners are then undone, and the clearance is measured by matching the width of the compressed Plastigauge against a calibrated gauge card.
When reassembling the surfaces after using Plastigauge, it is important to ensure proper alignment and placement of the parts. The surfaces should be returned to their standard position, and any residual Plastigauge can be removed with a clean oily cloth or industrial de-greasing solvent. It is worth noting that Plastigauge is oil-soluble, so any residue left behind is unlikely to cause harm to oil-lubricated metal compounds.
In the context of engine building and crankshaft bearings, it is important to ensure that the crankshaft is supported during the reassembly process to avoid false readings. Additionally, it is recommended to use Plastigauge at room temperature, as very cold Plastigauge may not provide accurate results.
When reassembling surfaces, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and torque specifications to ensure accurate measurements and the proper functioning of the machinery. Reassembling surfaces may vary depending on the specific application, so referring to the relevant manuals and guidelines is essential.
To summarise, when reassembling surfaces after using Plastigauge, ensure proper alignment and placement, return the surfaces to their standard position, and remove any residual Plastigauge with a suitable solvent. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and torque specifications for accurate results and the optimal performance of the machinery.
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Read the gauge
To read a plastic gauge, you must first separate the surfaces between which the measurement is to be made. Then, position the plastic gauge strip, adhering it with a smear of mineral grease. Once the plastic gauge has been inserted, return the surfaces to their standard position. Now, reopen the surfaces to reveal the plastic gauge, which will have spread across the surface as a stripe or band. Finally, match the width of the stripe against the calibrated gauge card supplied and read off the clearance.
Plastic gauges, such as Plastigauge, are used to measure the clearance between two surfaces, like the bearing surfaces on a crankshaft. They are particularly useful for measuring clearances in spots that cannot be reached after a part is assembled, such as large bearings, including marine drive shaft bearings, turbine housing bearings, and pump and pressure system bearings.
It is important to note that the surfaces should be clean prior to using a plastic gauge. Additionally, for large bearings, it is recommended to insert two or more gauges around the bearing to obtain multiple measurements.
Plastic gauges provide a quick and simple way to measure clearances during the assembly process, especially in areas that may be challenging to access with other tools, such as a bore gauge or micrometre. However, it is crucial to follow the correct procedure in terms of cleaning and assembly to avoid inaccurate readings.
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Remove the gauge
Removing a plastic gauge, such as Plastigauge, is a straightforward process. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Firstly, it is important to ensure that the surfaces you are working with are clean and free of any excess oil or grime. This is a crucial step as it ensures accurate measurements and avoids any contamination. Clean the exposed surface of the journal and shell thoroughly.
Next, you will need to position the Plastigauge strip accurately. Apply a small amount of mineral grease to the desired surface, which will help the strip adhere. You can use a smear of grease to hold the strip in place. Additionally, apply a small quantity of silicone release agent to the other surface. The Plastigauge strip should be trimmed to fit the desired surface perfectly.
Once the Plastigauge strip is securely in place, you can reassemble the components. Return the surfaces to their standard position. This step may vary depending on the specific application, but generally, it involves tightening the retaining set screws to the manufacturer's recommended torque settings without rotating the journal.
After reassembling, it's time to reveal the Plastigauge strip. Loosen the set screws and remove the shell to uncover the Plastigauge. At this point, you will see that the Plastigauge has spread across the bearing surface as a stripe or band. This physical deformation of the Plastigauge is essential for taking measurements.
Now, carefully remove the Plastigauge stripe. It is recommended to use a clean oily cloth or industrial de-greasing solvent for this step. Any Plastigauge residue left behind is typically not an issue as it is oil-soluble and unlikely to cause harm to oil-lubricated metal compounds. However, it is always good practice to ensure a thorough cleanup.
By following these steps, you can successfully remove a plastic gauge, specifically Plastigauge, from the measured surface. Remember to refer to the specific instructions provided with your Plastigauge for any additional details or variations in the removal process.
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Frequently asked questions
A plastic gauge, also known as Plastigauge, is a plastic-based material used to measure the clearance between two surfaces, such as the bearing surfaces on a crankshaft.
Firstly, separate the two surfaces between which the measurement is to be made. Then, position the plastic gauge strip, adhering it with a smear of mineral grease. Return the surfaces to their standard position. Finally, re-open the surfaces and match the width of the plastic gauge stripe against a calibrated gauge card to read off the clearance.
Plastic gauges are quick and simple to use. They are particularly effective for measuring the clearance in large bearings, including marine drive shaft bearings, turbine housing bearings, and pump and pressure system bearings. They can also be used to measure separation in moulding tools and hidden surfaces that cannot be reached with other tools after assembly.
