Information About

Caliper




caliper]]

A caliper ( British Spelling also '''calliper''') is a device used to Measure the distance between two symmetrically opposing sides. A caliper can be as simple as a Compass with inward or outward-facing points. The tips of the caliper are adjusted to fit across the points to be measured, the caliper is then removed and the distance read by measuring between the tips with a measuring tool, such as a Ruler .

They are used in the Metalworking field of Mechanical Engineering , Handloading , and in Woodworking and Woodturning .


TYPES



Inside caliper


The inside calipers are used to measure the internal size of an object.

  • The upper caliper in the image (at the right) requires manual adjustment prior to fitting, fine setting of this caliper type is performed by tapping the caliper legs lightly on a handy surface until they will ''almost'' pass over the object. A light push against the resistance of the central pivot screw then spreads the legs to the correct dimension and provides the required, consistent ''feel'' that ensures a repeatable measurement.

  • The lower caliper in the image has an adjusting screw that permits it to be carefully adjusted without removal of the tool from the workpiece.

  • Chinthaka





Outside caliper


Outside calipers are used to measure the external size of an object.

The same observations and technique apply to this type of caliper, as for the above Inside caliper. With some understanding of their limitations and usage these instruments can provide a high degree of accuracy and repeatability. They are especially useful when measuring over very large distances, consider if the calipers are used to measure a large diameter pipe. A vernier caliper does not have the depth capacity to straddle this large diameter while at the same time reach the outermost points of the pipes diameter.




Divider caliper


In the Metalworking field divider calipers are used in the process of Marking Out suitable workpieces. The points are sharpened so that they act as scribers, one leg can then be placed in the dimple created by a Center Or Prick Punch and the other leg pivoted so that it scribes a line on the workpiece's surface, thus forming an arc or circle.

A divider caliper is also used to measure a distance between two points on a or 1852 Metres .


Oddleg caliper


Oddleg calipers, '''Hermaphrodite calipers''' or '''Oddleg jennys''', as pictured at left, are generally used to scribe a line a set distance from the edge of workpiece. The bent leg is used to run along the workpiece edge while the scriber makes its mark at a predetermined distance, this ensures a line parallel to the edge.

In the diagram at left, the uppermost caliper has a slight shoulder in the bent leg allowing it to sit on the edge more securely, the lower caliper lacks this feature but has a renewable scriber that can be adjusted for wear, as well as being replaced when excessively worn.




Vernier calipers