What’re gauges?

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Calipers are tools used to measure objects, with different designs for specific purposes. They consist of two legs fixed to a central hinge, with marks for distance measurements. Some are fixed while others are adjustable. They are commonly used in crafts and quality assessment.

Calipers are tools that are used to measure things. They consist of two legs fixed to a central hinge; the legs can be moved together or apart to get a measure. Different calipers are designed for specific purposes, such as measuring the inside of objects and the outside of objects. Many crafts require the use of these tools and they are typically readily available in stores that cater to these crafts.

A very simple set of pliers looks more like a set of pincers. When the calipers curve inward, as if about to grip something, the tool is used to measure the outside of objects, such as screws, nuts, wood planks, and so on. When the calipers curve outward, it’s designed to measure the inside of things, like pipes. Typically the center hinge has a number of marks that can be read to obtain distance measurements.

You can also find calipers mounted on a slide rule, in which case they are moved along the ruler to get the desired measurement. A famous example of this design is the vernier caliper, which has two sets of guides that allow the user to measure insides and outsides. Vernier calipers often feature multiple measurement systems in their markings, allowing people to determine distances in both imperial and standard measurements, for example. You may even find some with digital readouts that eliminate potential operator error.

Some versions of these tools are fixed open to a specific width. They are used in quality assessment and to maintain standards; for example, a company might use fixed gauges to ensure they produce bolts of the same size. In contrast, mobile calipers are fully adjustable, allowing people to measure a range of objects, although they can sometimes be locked into place for standardized measurements.

Calipers are extremely useful measuring tools and are very easy to use. Some people find these tools quite compelling when first introduced to them, as these devices can be used to measure all sorts of things. In the specific trades in which they are used, skilled people often prefer one type or the other.




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