The Ultimate Metric Thread Checker: Part number CP05PA-001 (Pricing at bottom of page)
More than 20 years ago, I made a crude, 0-80 to 1/4-20 thread checker that was nothing more than a saw-cut bar of stainless steel that was threaded and hand-engraved for that range of screws. Despite the saw-cut ends, that bar of metal came in handy hundreds of times when I was designing or checking threads, nuts, and screws. Well, times have changed in that most products sold here in the US contain metric screws. While perusing the internet and the often-used supply houses like McMaster-Carr, MSC, and Enco, I found that thread and screw checkers really haven't changed much. The standard metric thread checker is a thin steel plate with a range of threaded holes in it. I actually have one of these but found it to be lacking in some ways. Another option is a set of male and female threaded pieces on a cord. Finally, there exists a wall-mounted board with plenty of male and female (inch and metric) components mounted to it. Unfortunately, you cannot remove any.
Not happy with these choices, I designed what I consider to be a simple, yet highest quality metric thread checker in the world.
First and foremost are the threaded components. Each threaded cylinder is made of 300-series stainless steel. Eight of these cylinders are bonded into a laser-etched aluminum base that is gold chromate-coated to allow excellent adhesion of all components. Each socket head cap screw is made of 18-8 stainless steel. Next, a couple of super neodymium disc magnets are bonded into counterbores that are machined into the aluminum base. A removable and custom-cut stainless-steel ruler is added to allow length measuring of screws. The magnets may also be used to determine whether external screws or nuts are heavily, lightly, or non-magnetic by material composition.
A large counterbored center hole allocates storage space for nuts/other hardware or odd-sized screws for future use. This hole also allows for easy gripping of the 70 mm ruler. Finally, three polyurethane feet (After all, we are Conceptual Polymer!) are affixed to the bottom of this thread checker. These non-slip feet keep your Ultimate Thread Checker securely planted on your desk or workbench. Who can utilize this tool?
◙ Designers/CAD drafters
◙ Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineers
◙ Quality Assurance Inspectors
◙ Professional and Home Auto Mechanics
◙ Inventors
All machined components and the ruler are MADE IN THE USA. All components are assembled here in the USA, as well.
Each 10 or 12mm long socket head cap screw has (what is considered to be) the most common
thread pitch for its size.
One of two super neodymium disc magnets can be seen here.
Polyurethane feet protect your thread checker and prevent it from sliding on a smooth surface.
This is a tool that you can pass down for generations to come.
Best regards,
Dave
Price: $34.95 + $6.00 shipping (Continental US) by US Postal Service. If you live outside of the US, please inquire as to shipping cost. sales@conceptualpolymer.com
858.733.0171