Micrometers are instruments used to measure small objects or distances accurately. In books and printing industries, they’re commonly employed to gauge paper thickness or type size accurately.
Micrometer derives its name from two Greek words – mikros (mikros), meaning small, and metron (metron), meaning measure. French scientists Pierre Petit and Jean Picard first invented it in the 17th century.
Micrometers typically consist of a U-shaped frame with an adjustable calibrated screw to move its measuring head. The measuring head features a V-groove that holds objects for measurement; once placed onto an object and turned, its screw should move until just touching its surface; its reading on this screw then serves as a measurement of that object.
Micrometers have become indispensable tools in many fields of engineering, manufacturing, and medicine, such as measuring material thicknesses, diameters of objects, or distances between surfaces.
Micrometers serve a key purpose in printing and bookbinding: they allow users to ensure the materials used are of sufficient thickness for successful printing and bookbinding processes. Failure to use appropriate thickness materials would lead to improper size/dimension outcomes in their final products.
Utilizing a micrometer is relatively straightforward. First, place the object to be measured onto the base of the micrometer. Next, lower its spindle onto it until contact is made before rotating until your object fits snugly between the anvil and spindle.
A micrometer is an invaluable tool in book and printing production. It enables precise measurements of small objects, crucial in creating accurate printouts. Furthermore, this measuring instrument can also help determine paper thickness, which determines how many pages can be printed on one sheet of paper.