What is a Caliper?
A caliper is a measuring tool that is used to measure the distance between two points. It is usually made up of two jaws that slide along a scale. The scale is marked with units of measurement, such as inches or millimeters. The jaws can be adjusted to measure the distance between two points accurately.
Parts of a Caliper
Before we discuss how to read a caliper, let’s first understand its different parts. A typical caliper consists of the following parts: – The main scale: This is the long, straight part of the caliper that has units of measurement marked on it. – The jaws: These are the two arms that can be moved to measure the distance between two points. – The depth rod: This is a small rod that is attached to one of the jaws. It is used to measure the depth of a hole or slot. – The locking screw: This is a small screw that is used to hold the jaws in place once the measurement has been taken.
Reading a Caliper
To read a caliper, you need to first close the jaws around the object you want to measure. Make sure that the jaws are snug against the object and that there is no gap between them. Then, look at the main scale and note the number that lines up with the zero mark on the jaws. This number represents the whole units of measurement. Next, look at the Vernier scale, which is located on the sliding jaw. The Vernier scale has small marks that are slightly offset from the main scale. Find the mark on the Vernier scale that lines up with a mark on the main scale. Note the number that is closest to this mark. This number represents the fraction of a unit of measurement. Add the whole unit of measurement and the fraction of a unit of measurement together to get the total measurement. For example, if the whole unit of measurement is 3 and the fraction of a unit of measurement is 0.2, the total measurement is 3.2.
Types of Calipers
There are two main types of calipers: digital and analog. Digital calipers have a digital display that shows the measurement, while analog calipers have a Vernier scale that needs to be read manually. Both types of calipers are accurate and reliable, but digital calipers are easier to read and require less skill.
Using a Caliper
To use a caliper, you need to first select the appropriate jaws for the object you want to measure. For example, if you want to measure the outside diameter of a cylinder, you need to use the outside jaws. If you want to measure the inside diameter of a hole, you need to use the inside jaws. Once you have selected the appropriate jaws, close them around the object you want to measure. Make sure that the jaws are snug against the object and that there is no gap between them. Then, read the measurement using the steps outlined above.
Common Mistakes
When reading a caliper, there are several common mistakes that you need to avoid. These include: – Not closing the jaws snugly around the object. – Misreading the Vernier scale. – Forgetting to add the whole unit of measurement and the fraction of a unit of measurement together. – Not selecting the appropriate jaws for the object being measured.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions related to how to read a caliper:
1. How accurate are calipers?
Calipers are very accurate and can measure to within a few thousandths of an inch or hundredths of a millimeter. However, the accuracy depends on the quality of the caliper and the skill of the user.
2. Can calipers measure depth?
Yes, calipers can measure depth using the depth rod that is attached to one of the jaws.
3. Can calipers measure angles?
No, calipers cannot measure angles. For that, you need to use a protractor or an angle gauge.
Conclusion
Learning how to read a caliper is an important skill for anyone who works with precision measurements. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can read a caliper accurately and with confidence. Remember to avoid common mistakes and to select the appropriate jaws for the object being measured. With practice, you will become proficient in using a caliper and will be able to take accurate measurements with ease.