The spelling of the word "gage block" may seem unusual to some, as it is typically spelled with the letter "a" in place of the letter "e". However, the word "gage" comes from the Old French word "jauge" which was pronounced with a soft "g" sound. In English, the "g" is pronounced with a hard sound, and therefore the spelling was changed to "gage" to reflect this. The word "block" is spelled as it sounds, with the "o" and "c" combining to create an "aw" sound. So "gage block" is pronounced "geyj blok" using the International Phonetic Alphabet.
A gage block is a precision measuring tool used in industries such as engineering, manufacturing, and metrology for accurate and reliable measurements. It consists of a set of flat, rectangular metal blocks made from materials with high dimensional stability and hardness, usually tool steel, ceramic, or carbide.
Gage blocks are precisely calibrated and manufactured to strict standards, ensuring a high degree of accuracy and repeatability in their measurements. They come in various sizes, typically ranging from 1 millimeter to 100 millimeters, with each block having a specific thickness. These blocks are arranged in a stack to achieve the desired measuring size or length.
The surfaces of gage blocks are carefully ground and lapped to extremely tight tolerances, resulting in flat and parallel faces. They are also hardened and heat-treated to maintain their dimensional stability and resist wear and corrosion. The blocks often have a specific identification number or measurement value etched or engraved on them for easy recognition and usage.
Gage blocks are primarily used for precision measurement and calibration purposes. They serve as references for measuring instruments, such as micrometers, calipers, and height gauges, allowing for accurate linear measurements. These blocks act as master standards and are frequently employed in dimensional quality control, research, and development, as well as in laboratory and workshop settings.
The word "gage block" is an English term derived from two separate origins.
The first part, "gage", comes from the Middle English word "gage" or "gagge", which meant a pledge, security, or guarantee. It has its roots in the Old French word "gage" and the Late Latin word "wadium", both meaning "pledge" or "security". Over time, "gage" expanded its meaning to include various forms of measurement or standard, particularly in the context of tools or instruments used for measurement.
The second part, "block", simply refers to a solid piece of material, often with standardized dimensions.
Therefore, the term "gage block" refers to a solid block of material used as a standard or reference in dimensional measurements.