What Is a Vernier Calliper?
Vernier calipers are a type of measuring device used to measure precise increments between two points. Vernier calipers work best when used between parallel points, their intended design. Due to their precision they can be used across less stable points of reference to a high degree of accuracy. Calipers come in various sizes, but the most common is 6 inches. These tools are not intended to measure large spans. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The Vernier caliper was invented by French mathematician Pierre Vernier. It was designed to measure linear distances very accurately. The caliper uses a two scales. One scale is fixed and the other slides along this fixed scale to measure smaller fractions.
Types
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Vernier calipers can be in various sizes and in different measuring scales. Commonly, calipers are found in metric and standard scales and measure to .001 inch or .01 millimeters. Modern digital calipers can read even more accurately and, typically, can be changed from metric to standard with the touch of a button.
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Function
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Vernier calipers are most often found in scientific laboratories and in manufacturing quality-control rooms. Vernier calipers, while available in various lengths, are intended to measure smaller distances. Most often the calipers are available in sizes capable of measuring from 0 to 6 inches.
Features
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A Vernier caliper can be used in a few different ways. The larger, lower set of jaws are designed to measure outer points, such as the diameter of a rod. The top jaws can be used to measure the inside points, such as the space between two blocks of steel or the size of a hole. A rod typically extends from the rear of the caliper when it is opened and can be used to measure depth.
Benefits
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Vernier calipers are exceptional measuring devices that are fairly simple to use and read. The ability to make very fine measurements is helpful in a variety of applications. Manufacturing is a great beneficiary of this tool, as fine and accurate measurements are all the more important as components are assembled to make a whole.
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- Photo Credit M. Kozlowski
