Question

What is backlash error? Why is it caused? How is it avoided?

Answer 1

Backlash error: If by reversing the direction of rotation of the thimble, the tip of the screw does not start moving in the opposite direction immediately but remains stationary for a part of rotation; it is called backlash error.

Reason: It happens due to wear and tear of the screw threads.

To avoid the backlash error, while taking the measurements the screw should be rotated in one direction only. If the direction of rotation of the screw needs to be changed, then it should be stopped for a while and then rotated in the reverse direction.