What are the 4 Ways to Use Calipers?

Calipers are one of the most useful tools that you can have in your shop. The fact that a single tool can be used for up to four different types of measurements makes them among the most versatile tools on the market.

In this article, the precision measurement experts at Penn Tool Co. reveal the 4 distinct, valuable measurements you can take with a caliper. Find out more about these useful devices and how they can improve your business, below.

What are the 4 Types of Caliper Measurements?

While there are different types of calipers, each of can perform the same four types of measurements. Whether you’re using an electronic, dial, or Vernier caliper, you can use these tools to determine:

1. Depth Readings
2. Inside Readings
3. Outside Readings
4. Step Readings

1. Depth Readings

These calipers have depth blades that extend out of their far ends when they are opened. Use this blade to measure depth.

Press the machined end of the device against the top of the hole that you’re measuring. Then, open the caliper so that the blade touches the bottom of the hole.

It can be difficult if only one side of the caliper touches the side of the hole, but you will need to be sure that the device is straight.

2. Inside Readings

When you look at your caliper, you will notice a smaller set of jaws on top of the device. Those top jaws are used to gather inside readings.

Gathering this information is pretty straightforward, as you simply slide the smaller jaws into the item that you are measuring before sliding them apart as far as they will go.

However, it can be a little tricky to keep the jaws straight on inside measurements. Therefore, you must take special care to ensure that neither of the jaws are cocked, as this will result in an inaccurate measurement.

3. Outside Readings

Outside measurements are typically considered the most basic measurements that can be performed with calipers. Simply slide the jaws of the caliper open until they contact the workpiece, and read the measurement.

While this is the most fundamental measurement provided by a caliper, it is important that you set the device on the item you’re measuring correctly. If there is any debris on the jaws or the jaws are not straight on the item being measured, you will receive incorrect information.

4. Step Readings

Industry experts consider step readings as the “secret use” of a caliper. While some calipers don’t include this option in the instructions, it’s a wonderful feature of these tools.

To get a step reading, slightly open the caliper, letting the sliding jaw rest on the upper side of the workpiece. Once the sliding jaw is in place, open the caliper until the fixed jaw hits the lower step.

Find the Best Calipers for Your Shop at Penn Tool Co.

At Penn Tool Co., we started out as a small hardware company. Today, we’ve become one of the most trusted names in the world of precision measuring instruments for the metalworking community.

We make a wide variety of precision tools for craftspeople and professionals of all experience levels today. Check out our selection of high-quality calipers to maximize precision in your operations.
To learn more about these invaluable metrology tools, reach out to our team today.