Interapid test indicator
Premium Quality Swiss Indicators
Contents of this page and related topics:
- About older models
- Extra long point indicator
- Interapid features
- Metric indicators
- Free crystal replacement
- Spare parts list
- Manufacturer's specs
- Calibration procedures
- Contact points
- Dovetails and stem attachments
- 3/8" stem adapter
- Problems with repeatability
- Repair service
- Magnetic base designed for Interapid
New Interapid test indicators, repair service and spare parts are available from Long Island Indicator Service. Why buy from us? You undoubtedly can get it a few dollars cheaper at Penn Tool or J&L Industrial. In fact, you can buy a made-in-China look-alike from Fowler for a fraction of the cost. But, Why buy from us? If you buy from us you'll help support a small family business. There's tough competition out there. No one's getting rich here. And, we'll only sell you the genuine made-in-Switzerland article. As an incentive, read on: - We'll replace the crystal on your Interapid indicator for free if it ever gets scratched, cracks or discolors - for as long as you own your indicator.
(see details on this page). - We'll provide NIST traceable calibration certificates when requested at time of purchase (small fee applies).
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Horizontal Interapid test indicator |
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Interapid model 312B-1 shown above This genuine, Swiss-made Interapid indicator is undisputably the best test indicator of its kind. The large hand makes two complete revolutions in either direction and the small hand helps you keep track which revolution you're on. The right hand side of the dial has a thin black half-circle in case you want to use these in a set-up involving mirrors. The 4 mm diameter mounting stem swivels and can be replaced if damaged. The two dove tails (back and top) are mounted with screws and these can also be replaced or removed if they get in the way. These dovetails, by the way, are hardened metal and won't get squashed with wear like the brass dovetails on other indicators. If you don't want 4 mm, then you can easily slip on a 3/8" adapater. Many different contact points, including ruby, Teflon and nylon are optionally available, and easy to install. The contact point operates on a friction clutch, so you'll have to apply a bit of force to get the point to swivel, which it does, from the front of the indicator to the back. Unless you know what you're doing, you should under no circumstances attempt to disassemble or adjust any of the screws or bearings on the indicator. These indicators are designed to function when the contact angle is about 12° to the work surface (see details below). The indicator comes in a sturdy box, with a .080" diameter carbide point installed, a wrench for removing the contact point and a manufacturer's statement of conformance along with allowable errors (see bottom of this page). Calibration certificates are not included but can be gotten at the time of purchase for a nominal fee. |
Grads | Range | Dial Ø | Point Length | Model | Catalog no. | Order no. | Your Price |
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0.0005" | 0.06" | 1.5" | 0.687" | 312B-1 | 74.111370 | 42775 | 199.00 |
0.0005" | 0.06" | 1.5" | 2.750" | 312B-15 | 74.111965 | 41716 | 269.00 |
0.0005" | 0.06" | 1" | 0.687" | 312B-2 | 74.111371 | 86150 | 199.00 |
0.001" | 0.06" | 1" | 0.687" | 312B-20 | 74.111374 | 41682 | 199.00 |
0.0001" | 0.016" | 1.5" | 0.687" | 312B-3 | 74.111372 | 41680 | 249.00 |
0.0001" | 0.016" | 1" | 0.687" | 312B-4 | 74.111373 | 41681 | 249.00 |
0,01 mm | 1,6 mm | 37.5 mm | 16.5 mm | 312-1 | 74.111366 | 41674 | 199.00 |
0,01 mm | 1,6 mm | 30 mm | 16.5 mm | 312-2 | 74.111367 | 41675 | 199.00 |
0,002 mm | 0,4 mm | 37.5 mm | 15.2 mm | 312-3 | 74.111368 | 42773 | 249.00 |
0,002 mm | 0,4 mm | 30 mm | 15.2 mm | 312-4 | 74.111369 | 42774 | 249.00 |
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NIST traceable certificate of calibration long form with data. Certificates of calibration only available at time of purchase. | CCLF | 6.00 |
Small diameter .031" carbide contact point (.687" long). Regular price $19.50. Special price available only with the purchase of an Interapid indicator. See page 21 for more contact points. | 105998 | 15.60 |
3/8" adapter (slips over the 4 mm mounting stem). Special price available only with the purchase of an Interapid indicator. See page 36 for other adapters, holders and attachments. | 41665 | 11.70 |
You may order online by selecting any linked order number.
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Extra long contact point |
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Model 312B-15 with 2.75" long contact point. See ordering chart above or, for the vertical version see below. There is no metric equivalent for this long point model and it is only available with .0005" graduations. You can request this indicator with a 5.5" extra long point in which case the graduations on the indicator are .001" You'll have to make sure that whoever uses this indicator knows about the change. This extra long point is not sanctioned by the manufacturer, so if you use it, all guarantees of accuracy are void. Customers who have used this special item report that the indicator works fine and that accuracy is not compromised. Be aware that we can not accept returns on this item if you decide that it doesn't meet your needs. Model 74111965X ... $315.00 order now |
Vertical Interapid test indicator |
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Vertical, jig-bore type test indicator with one dovetail and an integral 4 mm holding stem which swivels in one direction. The contact point (Ø.080" supplied) also swivels through a wide arc. A friction clutch holds them in a steady position so it might take a bit of effort to move the point. Do not use any tools other than your fingers for this operation and be sure that the point is securely fastened before attempting to move it. Never attempt to make adjustments to the ball bearings located on the side of the body, or you'll have a repair bill on your hands. This superior vertical style indicator is well worth the investment. |
Grads | Range | Dial Ø | Point Length | Model | Catalog no. | Order no. | Your Price |
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0.0005" | 0.06" | 1.5" | 2.75" | 312B-15V | 74.111958 | 41715 | 269.00 |
0.0005" | 0.06 | 1.5 | .687" | 312B-1V | 74.111377 | 41685 | 219.00 |
0.001" | 0.06 | 1 | .687" | 312B-20V | 74.111379 | 41687 | 199.00 |
0.0005" | 0.06 | 1 | .687" | 312B-2V | 74.111378 | 41686 | 209.00 |
0.0001" | 0.016 | 1.5 | .687" | 312B-3V | 74.111957 | 41714 | 259.00 |
0,01 mm | 1.6 mm | 37.5 mm | 16.5 mm | 312-1V | 74.111375 | 41683 | 219.00 |
0,01 mm | 1.6 mm | 30 mm | 16.5 mm | 312-2V | 74.111376 | 41684 | 209.00 |
For other contact point options, such as ruby point see contact points. You may order online by selecting any linked model number. |
Interapid indicator features |
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These indicators have a very light measuring force: just 0,12 N for .0005" models and 0,25 N for .0001" models. The indicator is designed to measure with the contact point held at an angle of 12° to the measuring surface. This allows you to take measurements down a hole or in a bore. The .080" diameter carbide contact point is easily replaceable with other diameters (from .015" to .120") and other substances (ruby, teflon or nylon). Under some circumstances, you can even install a longer point. See contact points. The dial hand makes two revolutions in each direction. The small counter hand keeps track of the revolutions. The dial has balanced numbering: 0-4-0 (.0001" indicators) and 0-15-0 (.0005" indicators). The right half of the dial features a thin black band which will help identify the plus or minus side when using a mirror. The novel tapered shape tilts the dial towards the observer. Both Mitutoyo and Starrett have recently copied this design. This makes for easier reading with less likelihood of parallax errors as well as a reduction in glare from overhead lights. If you need to slip the indicator into an opening then you may be interested toknow that the width of the body at the stylus (contact point) is 10,3 mm which is broader than Bestest, Tesatast or Compac. The holding stem is 4 mm (5/32") in diameter. The stem swivels and is attached to the body, although it can be removed and replaced. Simple instructions for this procedure are available on our Do-It-Yourself page. If you need a holding stem with a different diameter, use one of the following adapters: - An elegant 3/8" adapter fits over the 4 mm stem. Order no. 108943 ... $17.80
- For metric set-ups, use the 8 mm stem adapter. Order no. 108942 ... $17.80
The dovetails are hardened metal, screwed onto the body. These can also be removed and replaced. See our parts list for replacement parts. See a schematic drawing of the horizontal and vertical models. |
Interapid repair |
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Long Island Indicator is an authorized repair service for Interapid test in dicators. Top-of-the-line Interapid test indicators are probably the most challenging of all to repair. Absolute cleanliness and the replacement of critical parts is essential to a quality repair. We've been trained by masters in the craft, and having an ample supply of fresh parts directly from the manufacturer are able to return any Interapid test indicator to A-1 condition. Our fixed repair costs are outlined on page 30. It's our policy to replace any damaged or worn parts necessary for the full function of the indicator. This way you'll be sure to get an instrument that's as good as new and one you can rely on. And, if you request it, you'll get a short-form certificate of calibration, NIST traceable, for free; after all, when you get your indicator back you need to know that it's accurate. If you pay with a credit card, turn-around is less than a week. See page 30 for detailed information. Is the indicator damaged beyond repair? If the body is damaged in any way (the front end is squashed, for instance) then we'd have to replace the body and you'd have to pay about $150 for the repair. Not usually worthwhile. If the whole face has come off because it was ripped off - that sounds serious, yet happens regularly - it's repairable for the normal cost quoted in the paragraph above. Do you only need a new crystal installed? We charge $20 and that includes return shipping. Just enclose a check and we'll do a 2-day turn around. To make it easy, print out a packing list. Sorry, we can't repair old models such as the 310B and 311B series. Parts for these indicators are no longer available. If have one of these, then you've gotten your money's worth since they were discontinued about 30 years ago. If you just bought one on e-bay, then you've been had. |
Is Interapid any good? |
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If you'd like to compare the good points and the not-so-good points of the Interapid indicator with other manufacturers then take a look at our indicator comparison page. |
Free crystal replacement |
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Crystals get scratched, discolor or crack for one reason or another, but here's good news: if you bought the Interapid test indicator from us, we'll do a one-time free crystal replacement. Here's the deal: - It's an Interapid test indicator
- You bought it from Long Island Indicator Service and can prove it
- We'll replace the crystal once for whatever reason
- At no cost except shipping and handling.
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Important calibration information |
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Unlike other test indicators, Interapid indicators do not have serial numbers on them. Perhaps someday the manufacturer will remedy this situation but for now you'll have to assign your own unique serial number to each indicator if you intend to keep track of their calibration. It's easy to scratch a number into the painted body using a sharp tool. A permanent marker with a super fine point will also work. Do not use an electro-engraver because it creates sparks which have been known to damage the pinions on the gears. Interapid series 312 test indicators are designed to permit a true reading when the angle between the stylus and the reference surface is 12° as shown in A and B below. 
In the rare cases when axial measurement is required with the stylus at 0° with respect to the reference surface as in C and D in the illustration above, (for instance: small diameter bores) the readings must be multiplied by a factor of 1.022 (See further information on cosine error.) It also follows that incremental calibration discrepancies can be corrected by adjusting the contact point angle. Here are the specs as published by the manufacturer: |
Model | | Graduations | Deviation per revolution | Deviation Total | Repeatability | Hysteresis | Measuring force |
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74.111372
74.111373
74.111957 | | .0001" | .00016" | .0005" | .00005" | .0001" | 0,25 N |
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74.111370
74.111371
74.111965
74.111377
74.111378
74.111958 | | .0005" | .0004" | .0012" | .0002" | .0002" | 0,12 N |
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74.111368
74.111369
74.10002
74.10003 | | 0.002 mm | 4 µm | 10 µm | 1 µm | 2 µm | 0,25 N |
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74.111366
74.111367
74.111375
74.111376
74.10000
74.10001 | | 0.01 mm | 10 µm | 23 µm | 3 µm | 3 µm | 0,12 N |
Source: Tesa specifications (1899.011.9706) which are included with each indicator as of August, 2005. |
Using the correct contact point |
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While various diameter balls do not affect readings, the correct contact point length is critical. (Refer to model information on this page.) Use only points designed for Interapid indicators. Any deviation will result in reading errors. When ordering new points, take note of the indicator's model number and decide on the ball diameter you'll need. Contact points in carbide, ruby or Teflon can be found on page 21. |
Problems with repeatability |
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According to the manufacturer, the Interapid test indicator is allowed a repeatability error of .0002" (for .0005" models) and .00005" (for .0001" models). Refer to the specs above. Repeatability must be checked against the measuring surface. When the contact point is resting against the measuring surface, turn the bezel so that zero is directly in line with the pointer (hand). The indicator's "at rest" zero reading must not be used to verify repeatability. Swiveling the contact point may cause the zero setting to change slightly. If this happens, reset zero by turning the bezel. Zero readings may also be off when comparing contact point up and contact point down motions. Reset the zero by turning the bezel as needed. Furthermore, repeatability can only be assured if the indicator is securely fastened to a good test stand or other fixture. Fastening by the dovetail as close as possible to the front of the indicator is the preferred method. |
Interapid older models |
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Current test indicator models begin with the number 312. Previous models were number 311 and these are often still repairable, depending on the damage. The oldest models were number 310 and you can assume these are beyond repair simply because spare parts are obsolete. If the horse-shoe shaped clip which holds the bezel in place is missing, then you may have to improvise with a piece of springwire bent into the correct shape. You might be tempted to say "It only needs a cleaning," but that's almost never the case. None-the-less, if you want us to have a look, it costs you nothing but shipping. For a brief period of time Brown & Sharpe had put its name on the Interapid indicators. For example, B&S model 7025-4 was actually Interapid model 312B-1. These can still be repaired because they were not imitations but genuine Interapid indicators made in Switzerland. |
Interapid dove tails and stem attachments |
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It would appear that one of the advantages Interapid indicators have over other brands is the replaceable dovetails. Each of the 1 or more dovetails (depending on models) is fastened to the body with several screws. Dovetails are made of hardened steel and they won't break or wear down like those which are integral with the bodies of Bestest, Mitutoyo, Compac and others. Because they're hardened, they probably will never have to be replaced. Unless... the entire dovetail has been ripped from the body through some misadventure. In this case, the screw holes are usually damaged beyond repair anyway. The feature of replaceability is not particularly important. However, the hardened steel is. These dovetails will outlast any others. If you'd like to buy replacement dovetails and screws check the Interapid parts list. For instructions on replacing stem attachments see our Do-it-Yourself page. |
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This page's most recent revision: 16 April 2008
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