Brilio.net - Vernier calipers are an important measuring tool in various engineering and industrial fields. With its ability to measure the dimensions of objects with high precision , vernier calipers facilitate work that requires accuracy. However, to get accurate results, it is important to understand how to calculate vernier calipers correctly.
The measurement process using a vernier caliper involves two main scales: the main scale and the vernier scale. Reading both of these scales correctly ensures that the measurement results are accurate.
Although it seems simple, how to use a vernier caliper can be confusing if you don't understand the basic principles and measurement techniques. Therefore, brilio.net will discuss in detail how to calculate a vernier caliper with easy-to-understand examples, as compiled from various sources, Wednesday (11/9).
Definition of vernier caliper.
photo: pixabay.com/atevepb
Vernier calipers are also known as calipers, which are measuring instruments consisting of two movable jaws and a scale located on the part of the instrument. This instrument is generally used to measure the dimensions of an object with high precision, such as length, width, and diameter. Vernier calipers usually have two scales: the main scale and the vernier scale, which allows for more accurate measurements.
Parts of a vernier caliper.
1. Main Jaw (Fixed Jaw): The jaw that does not move and is usually located at the bottom of the vernier caliper.
2. Sliding Jaw: A jaw that can be slid to measure the dimensions of an object.
3. Main Scale: The scale located on the side of the vernier caliper which shows the main measurement units.
4. Vernier Scale: An additional scale located on the sliding jaw to increase measurement accuracy.
How to calculate with a vernier caliper.
photo: freepik.com
Measuring with a vernier caliper involves reading the main scale and the vernier scale simultaneously. Here are the steps on how to calculate using a vernier caliper:
1. Preparation of tools.
Make sure the vernier caliper is clean and free from dirt. To start the measurement, make sure the jaws are completely closed and check that the vernier scale is parallel to the main scale.
2. Measurement.
1. Measurement of outer diameter.
- Place the object between the main jaw and the sliding jaw.
- Slide the sliding jaw until it is snug against the object, making sure there are no gaps.
- Read the value on the main scale located in front of the zero point of the vernier scale. This is the main value of the measurement.
- Then, read the vernier scale at the point where the vernier scale line is parallel to the line on the main scale. This gives the additional value (fraction) of the measurement.
Example of outer diameter measurement:
- The main scale shows 10 mm.
- The vernier scale shows 0.5 mm.
- Total diameter = 10 mm + 0.5 mm = 10.5 mm.
2. Measurement of inner diameter.
- Use the jaws of a vernier caliper to measure the inside diameter of a tube or hole.
- Place the inner jaws inside the object and adjust until tight.
- Read the values on the main scale and vernier scale as in the previous step.
Example of inner diameter measurement:
- The main scale shows 20 mm.
- The vernier scale shows 0.2 mm.
- Inner diameter = 20 mm + 0.2 mm = 20.2 mm.
3. Depth measurement.
- Use the depth bar on the caliper to measure the depth of the hole or cavity.
- Place the depth rod in the hole until it touches the bottom.
- Read the values on the main scale and vernier scale.
Example of depth measurement:
- The main scale shows 15 mm.
- The vernier scale shows 0.8 mm.
- Depth = 15 mm + 0.8 mm = 15.8 mm.
Tips for accurate measurements.
photo: freepik.com/macrovector
1. Check the calibration.
Always make sure the vernier caliper is in the correct calibration condition before use. Calibration can be done by setting the jaws to zero on the main and vernier scales.
2. Avoid excessive pressure.
Do not press the caliper too hard when measuring, as this may cause inaccurate readings.
3. Use good lighting.
Reading the vernier scale requires sufficient lighting so that the scale lines are clearly visible.
4. Read carefully.
Be sure to read the scale correctly and don't hesitate to double-check if the measurement results feel inconsistent.
Example of calculation with vernier calipers.
Here is an example of the overall calculation:
Case example: measuring the diameter of a cylinder.
1. Place the cylinder between the main jaw and the sliding jaw.
2. Slide the sliding jaw until it is flush with the cylinder surface.
3. Read the values on the main scale and vernier scale.
- The main scale shows 25 mm.
- The vernier scale shows 0.6 mm.
- Cylinder diameter = 25 mm + 0.6 mm = 25.6 mm.
Case in point: measuring the depth of a hole.
1. Place the depth rod in the hole until it touches the bottom.
2. Read the values on the main scale and vernier scale.
- The main scale shows 40 mm.
- The vernier scale shows 0.3 mm.
- Hole depth = 40 mm + 0.3 mm = 40.3 mm.