3 Best Uses for a Vernier Caliper

A Vernier caliper is a precision instrument that measures internal dimensions, outside dimensions, and depth. It can measure at an accuracy of one thousandth of an inch and one hundredth of a millimeter. The caliper has 2 sets of jaws on the upper portion and the lower portion. Each set of jaws has a fixed jaw and a movable jaw. The upper set is designed to measure inside dimensions. The lower set is designed to measure outside dimensions.  It also has a depth probe at the base or rear part, which functions as a depth measuring tool.

Types of Scales

There are 2 scales on a Vernier caliper. The main scale is typically found on the length of the caliper. It functions much the same way as a ruler. The main scale is fixed on the device and cannot be moved. The caliper also has a movable Vernier scale. The Vernier scale is the secret to the instrument’s precision. It is divided into 10 sets, each of equal length. Below are the best uses for a Vernier caliper.

1.  Measuring Inside Dimensions

The upper set of jaws on the caliper can be used to measure inside dimensions, such as the diameter of holes on a piece of wood or metal. Measuring the precise diameters of holes in pipes, cylinders and other hollow objects is very important to any project or application. The jaws of the caliper can be easily slid into the hole to get the precise measurement. The caliper can also be used to measure inside dimension of holes with different shapes, e.g. square, rectangular, cylindrical, or hexagonal. Lastly, the upper jaws can be used to measure the distance between 2 objects. This can be done by simply putting the jaws of the caliper between the objects to get a measurement.

2.  Measuring Outside Dimensions

The lower set of jaws on the Vernier caliper can be used to measure outside dimensions. Outside dimensions include the outer diameter of a cylinder and total length of an object. The outer diameter of cylindrical objects can be measured by simply clamping the lower jaws of the caliper around the object. The caliper can also measure the length or width of an object by placing the object between the caliper’s jaws.

3.  Measuring Depth

The Vernier caliper has a depth probe on the rear part. This probe can be extended from the edge of the hole to the other end of the hole. With the depth probe, one can measure the precise depth of a hole in any piece of wood or metal.

Where It Is Used

The Vernier caliper is typically used in scientific labs and engineering schools where precise measurement is a must. High precision instruments like the Vernier caliper do not leave room for measurement errors. The Vernier caliper is a great addition to a woodworker’s tools. The device comes in handy when working with different woodworking projects that require careful and precise measurement.