What is Johansson Mikrokator?

Written by Rahul Verma | Updated: September 18, 2025

Introduction

A comparator is not only a measuring device but it is also used as a comparison device. This is because it can help compare the measured value of a substance with the actual value. Numerous comparators, such as the Johansson Mikrokator, are available on the market. A Johansson Mikrokator, also known as Abramson’s movement, is a mechanical comparator utilized to get a mechanical magnification of the difference in length relative to a standard. This instrument particularly values high accuracy in industries and laboratories, such as aerospace, automotive, and mechanical engineering, where high accuracy is imperative. The Johansson Mikrokator achieves sensitivity and reliability through relatively simple mechanical principles. In contrast to electronic comparators, it is a very reliable tool in the presence of stability and precision.

Scope

The Johansson Mikrokator plays a pivotal role in applications requiring micrometer-level accuracy. Its primary purpose is to compare the dimensions of a test piece against a standard or reference measurement. The following are some common areas where it is extensively used:

  • Manufacturing Quality Control: Ensuring components meet exact specifications in aerospace, automotive, and tool manufacturing industries.
  • Research Laboratories: Performing precision measurements for scientific experiments and prototype development.
  • Gauge Calibration: Verifying the accuracy of gauges, micrometers, and other measuring instruments.
  • Material Testing: Analyzing dimensional changes in materials under varying conditions such as temperature or stress.

Procedure

The Johansson Mikrokator employs a simple yet ingenious mechanical principle involving a strip of metal, a lever, and a pointer. The following is an overview of its operational procedure:

  • It operates based on a button rotating on a string loop.
  • A force given to the plunger’s tip or bottom causes it to travel upward.
  • The bell crank lever is attached to the upper part of the plunger.
  • One of the bell crank lever’s arms experiences an upward force from the plunger. The upward force of the plunger causes another arm to shift because two arms are joined at a 90-degree angle.
  • The twisted strip becomes even more twisted or untwisted as a result.
  • The Length of the strip changes depending on whether it is twisted or not.
  • As a result, as the plunger moves, the light pointer turns slightly, displaying the deflection on the linear.

Sample size

The following are the technical specifications of Johansson Mikrokator:

Sample sizeThe sample should be small enough to fit securely under the probe without obstructing the lever mechanism. Flat or uniformly shaped samples yield the most accurate results.
Surface ConditionsThe sample’s surface should be smooth and free of irregularities to ensure consistent contact with the probe.

Result

A mechanical comparator called the Johansson Mikrokator determines how much two pieces differ in Length. This gadget uses a button that spins on a thread loop to magnify the length difference. The following equation provides the ratio that represents the magnification of the Johansson MikroKator:

where,

  • l = Length of the metal strip
  • n = Number of turns on the metal strip
  • w = Width of the metal strip.

The magnification of this instrument depends upon the length of the strip and the number of twists in the twisted strip.

Conclusion

The Johansson Mikrokator is an accurate, reliable instrument for measuring even minute differences in Length between any two pieces. The mechanical magnification system helps to catch and show the deviation and offers the advantage of a power-independent electronic-free solution for dimensional comparison; simplicity, durability, and outstanding accuracy make it indispensable in a quality control and precision engineering system that guarantees the component meets exact tolerance and standards. Even with electronic and digital comparators, the Johansson Mikrokator is highly useful, especially in power-independent operating conditions. It is, therefore, very popular among professionals who want high accuracy in dimensional metrology.

FAQ’s

What is a comparator used to measure?

Comparators eliminate human error and can provide precise measurements with consistent accuracy. They are employed to determine how much the dimensions of a given component differ from those of a known datum.

What is the principle of the Johansson mikrokator?

It operates by rotating a button on a loop of strings. A narrow, twisted metal strip pointer displays the reading on an appropriate scale. There is no backlash because there is no friction when movement is transferred from the strip to the pointer.

What is the typical measurement range of the Johansson Mikrokator?

The range of measurements varies depending on the model, but it is appropriate for several micrometers up to 0.01 millimeters. This device is intended for high precision rather than large measurements.

What materials can be measured using a Johansson Mikrokator?

The Johansson Mikrokator is versatile and can measure materials such as metals, plastics, and ceramics as long as the surface is smooth and uniform. It is best used for components with precise dimensional requirements.


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