Magnetic Bases

The magnetic base is the tool used to hold a dial indicator. Rigid holding of the indicator is absolutely necessary to obtain an accurate reading. It is important to choose a quality base, as not all magnetic bases are the same, and you will want the base to have maximum rigidity for secure holding of the indicator.

There are 4 main types of magnetic base:

Standard

The most typical base consists of two “arms”. One screws directly into the magnetic base and the other attaches to it. There is a clamp that connects the two arms together and allows the user to change the position of the indicator along this base arm.

Central Clamping

The other category is central clamping magnetic bases. Their main feature is that they have a single arm connected to the magnetic base. Movement is provided by a ball and joint that allows the arm to rotate. What makes this mechanism unique is the ease, speed, and accuracy with which one can change the position of the indicator.

Hydraulic

Hydraulic magnetic bases are also central clamping bases, with the difference that, as hydraulic units, they easily provide even greater clamping force on the arms, thus offering an even more rigid support solution.

Articulated

Articulated magnetic bases differ from the above in that they have only one “arm”. This arm is a tubular system consisting of joints that allows it to bend and move with excellent flexibility. These arms are best for applications with hard-to-reach points that a typical base would have difficulty reaching.