Britannica AI Icon

plug gauge

measurement instrument

Quick Summary

A plug gauge is a measurement instrument used in manufacturing and engineering to determine if a hole's size is within a specified tolerance. It is a type of fixed-type gauge, meaning it indicates whether a dimension is larger or smaller than a standard.12

A plug gauge typically consists of a cylindrical bar with two ends of different diameters. The smaller end, marked "go," is designed to enter a hole if it is within the acceptable size range. The larger end, marked "not go," should not enter the hole if it is within tolerance. This "go" and "not go" system, also referred to as a go no-go gauge, ensures that manufactured parts meet precise specifications.23

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
  1. plug gage
  2. gauge
  3. go no-go gage

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.