If you use measurement tools in your line of work—be they clamp meters, multimeters, tape measures, or any other measuring device—taking proper care of them is crucial. These tools are often expensive, so maximizing their longevity can save you plenty of money and worry in the long run.
Keeping your tools in good nick will also maintain their accuracy. Imprecise measurements are the last thing you want to deal with on the job!
In this article, we’ll walk you through three key ways to keep your measurement tools running at optimum capacity for years to come.
Use proper storage methods
The first step involved in keeping your tools running optimally is implementing proper storage techniques. Some tools you use more than others—and those you pull out less frequently could spend weeks sitting in a cabinet or cupboard.
For example, a device sitting in a drawer with other bits and bobs could quickly become damaged. Other workers might frequently open and close the drawer, shaking the contents around and causing dents and scuffs.
Most of the time, measurement tools—especially digital ones—come in cases. You should keep your tools in their case at all times to avoid damage.
If your tool doesn’t have a case, use a similarly sized container with appropriate padding and protection from water damage. This way, you’ll keep your tools safe from contaminants and physical harm.
Clean your tools regularly
Ideally, you should clean your tools after each use, especially if you work in dusty, dirty, or oily environments. Excess grime can build up on a tool’s surface, causing corrosion or other types of irreversible damage.
As a general rule, wipe down each tool with a soft cloth and a dap of mineral oil. Make sure to cover all parts of the instrument, removing excess dust, grime, and oil.
Some tools may require more comprehensive cleaning methods. If you’re unsure about how to clean a particular tool, consult the manual. It should contain advice about the proper technique and cleaning agents to use.
Handle with care
When using your measurement tools, you should always treat them with the utmost care. Remember—any damage can throw off the tool’s accuracy, which could severely impact your work performance.
Only use measurement tools to perform tasks for which they are intended. For example, you should avoid using delicate tools like clamp meters or multimeters to hammer in a nail or twist a screw.
To avoid damage from dropping a tool, consider installing or temporarily placing down rubber mats in your work environment. These mats will absorb most of the impact as your tool hits the floor, reducing the chance of damage.
Conclusion
Taking good care of your measurement tools—whether they’re mechanical or digital—will keep them running properly for years on end. You’ll save money on costly repairs and replacement, along with the stress of dealing with a broken tool in a tight situation!
To summarise, make sure to keep your tools clean, handle them well, and follow proper storage techniques to ensure they’re running as they should.
Masab Farooque is a Tech Geek, Writer, and Founder at The Panther Tech. He is also a lead game developer at 10StaticStudios.
When he is not writing, he is mostly playing video games