Calipers, also written as callipers, are essential test and measurement handheld devices designed to precisely measure various object parameters (length, width, depth, etc.) in a wide array of applications. These instruments feature two adjustable jaws that accurately measure various materials' dimensions giving outputs in metric or imperial display formats. Furthermore, these precision measuring tools are found in multiple types with different functionalities and digital displays; however, they differ from brake calipers. In addition, these versatile calipers find applications in a multitude of environments, serving other measurement purposes.
Why Should I Buy Calipers? The Importance and Benefits?
Buying calipers holds great significance and is worth an investment regarding precision measuring capabilities. Calipers are reliable, easy to use, durable, and lightweight, ensuring accurate dimensions, data analysis, and enhancing productivity in various facilities. They offer convenience by measuring objects that are difficult to measure using standard measuring tools like rulers or scales. Additionally, these cost-effective measuring tools contribute to enhanced efficiency and reliability and facilitate advancements in multiple domains.
Key Components/Parts of Calipers
There are various parts of callipers depending on the calliper type. A typical caliper comprises multiple components, such as:
- Main Scale
- Vernier Scale
- Upper Jaws
- Lower Jaws
- Depth Rod
- Thumb Screw
- Lock Screw.
Materials and Popular Brands of Calipers
Callipers are constructed from durable, stress-resistant, and robust materials such as stainless steel or aluminium. For readability and convenience, some are designed with antiglare or satin galvanisation. The material choice relies on the intended applications and environments. Popular caliper brands include Mitutoyo, Facom, Bahco, Starett, and more.
Caliper Measurement Options
Calipers are designed to measure an object's dimensions from:
Popular Types of Calipers
These devices are classified into various types; however, the basic types include:
- Vernier Calipers – A vernier caliper is the most commonly used measuring equipment with a fixed (main scale) and a moving (vernier) scale. They are ideal for measuring many objects' inside, outside, and depth, especially those rounds in shape. The main scale of the verniers measures (called the least count) in millimeters in tenths of an inch or millimeters, whereas the vernier scale measures 0.001 inches or 0.02 millimeters. Additionally, they come in varied types, including digital vernier calipers and analogue vernier calipers.
- Digital Calipers – These are electronic calipers that measure objects' internal and external dimensions and give results on the integrated digital display. Digital calipers are the latest designed calipers that are easy to operate and read with both imperial and metric conversions.
- Dial Calipers – Dial calipers are designed to allow object measurement similar to vernier calipers with a high degree of accuracy. These are equipped with a dial that indicates the readings with an integrated needle. They are simple and easy to measure, providing complete measurement options for an object.
- Spring Calipers – These devices feature a spring joint designed to load onto the nut. They can precisely measure an object's internal, external, and edges by adjusting the inbuilt components of the calipers, like nuts and screws, either clockwise or anti-clockwise.
Other popular Caliper Types Include
- Inside Calipers
- Outside Calipers
- Divider Calipers
- Odd-leg Callipers
- Hermaphrodite Caliper
- Center Caliper (Center Finder)
- Depth Caliper
- Jenny Caliper
- Micrometer Screw Caliper
Typical Uses/Environments of Calipers
These exquisite measuring devices are the core engineering components of a wide range of environments providing unmatchable applications. They are widely used for:
- For educational and research purposes
- Medical sectors
- Laboratories
- Aerospace sectors
- Metalworking
- Manufacturing Applications
- Woodworking
- Gunsmithing applications
- Quality Control & Inspection
- DIY Projects.
