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Metrology Glossary: Setup Block

What A Setup Block?

A setup block, sometimes called a tri-block, is used in machining fields, typically to aid in setup of milling applications. It is a block of steel that is precisely squared and parallel. Typically, setup blocks are machined with a series of tapped holes, sometimes threaded, which serve to hold fixtures in place. As setup blocks are generally used to aid in the machining process, it’s important to have them calibrated on a regular basis, to ensure quality of the finished product they re being used to support.

Types Of Setup Blocks

Step blocks are make in a variety of configurations. At Cross precision measurement, one of the most common types of step blocks we see have sides of 1, 2, and 3 inches long, which is why a lot of times in the field they are referred to as “123 blocks”. While the 1, 2, and 3, inch dimension is most common, other variations are built based on the need. These include blocks that are 1-2-3 & 2-4-6 inches, but are sometimes custom built, based on the need.

Setup Block

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Did you know… Cross Company is an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Our ESOP started in 1979 and as of 2006, we are 100% employee-owned! Learn more about our ESOP and how that benefits both team members and our customers.
Did you know... the precision measurement group at Cross was founded in 1939 by our current CEO's grandfather, Jim King. That's a whole lot of calibration!
Did you know... A fingerprint weighs about 50 micrograms. We know, we weighed it! The residue left from a finger can actually make a difference in weight results which is why we wear gloves when we calibrate weights. For reference, a sheet of paper is about 4.5 grams, that’s 4.5 million micrograms.
Did you know… Cross Company has grown significantly since our start in 1954. Over the years we've acquired 26 companies! Today, our five groups have expertise in everything from industrial automation to precision measurement, and industry knowledge going all the way back to 1939.