Caliper | Caliper

Key Words: manual metrology, micrometer, vernier scale

Definition:An instrument similar in appearance to geometry dividers but with curved ends used to measure the distance between two opposing points

TECHNOLOGY:

Calipers consist of two ‘arms’ joined by a screw at one end to enable opening and closing. The ends of the arms may be curved inwards so that they can encircle objects such as pipes, or outwards to enable easier measurement of the inside of pipes and other open objects. The distance between the caliper tips may be read using a measuring scale such as a ruler, or in some cases, a scale may be incorporated between the caliper arms. Calipers have many descriptions which include ‘inside’, ‘outside’, ‘double (both inside and outside), ‘spring’ (fitted with a spring to automatically open the legs), ‘micrometer’ (fitted with a fine micrometer screw to enable accuracy to (0.00254 mm), ‘vernier’ (fitted with a vernier scale), ‘digital’ (incorporating a digital measurement device).

APPLICATIONS:

For manual measurement of a variety of industrial parts.