What is a vernier caliper?
What is a Vernier Caliper?
A vernier caliper is a measuring device used to precisely measure linear dimensions. In other words, it measures a straight line between two points.
However, it is also a very useful tool to use when measuring the diameter of a round objects like cylinders because the measuring jaws can be secured on either side of the circumference.
Vernier calipers are super useful and a great tool to have in the tool box.
Why use Vernier Calipers?
Vernier calipers have both a fixed main scale and a moving vernier scale. The main scale is graduated in either millimetres or tenths of an inch. The vernier scale allows much more precise readings to be taken (usually to the nearest 0.02mm or 0.001 inch) in comparison to a standard ruler (which only measures to the nearest 1mm or 0.25 inch).
Vernier calipers have both a fixed main scale and a moving vernier scale.
The main scale is graduated in either millimetres or tenths of an inch.
The vernier scale allows much more precise readings to be taken (usually to the nearest 0.02mm or 0.001 inch) in comparison to a standard ruler (which only measures to the nearest 1mm or 0.25 inch).
What is the Vernier scale?
Good question. It’s essentially for accuracy. It has the normal larger scale but also a scale within that main scale that allows for clearer resolution and accuracy, which removes any potential of human error.
The reason why this works so well is because it’s based around what is known as vernier acuity. The human eye is very good at detecting if two lines are aligned or misaligned. So this two step process plays into making it accurate and more importantly, the more you practice the more accurate the eye gets.
Vernier calipers usually show either imperial or metric measurements, but some measure in both.
Note: There are now digital vernier calipers available on the market which make the measuring jobs quicker and easier. Read our Wonkee Donkee review of the Best Digital Calipers available now!
Who invented the Vernier Scale?
The vernier scale was invented by French mathematician Pierre Vernier in 1631. As part of the vernier caliper, it is used together with the main scale, and helps to provide very precise measurements. The vernier scale was invented by French mathematician Pierre Vernier in 1631.
Vernier Caliper Range
The range (sometimes called maximum capacity) of a vernier caliper is the difference between the largest value and the smallest value that the caliper can measure. It is equal to the length of the main scale. Most vernier calipers have a range of 6 inches (300mm), although calipers with smaller and larger ranges are also available.
Resolution (Vernier Reading)
The resolution (or vernier reading) of a vernier caliper is the smallest distance that the caliper can measure. The resolution of imperial vernier calipers is usually 0.001 in, whereas the resolution of metric calipers is either 0.05mm or 0.02mm. A caliper’s resolution is indicated at the end of the vernier scale.
The resolution of imperial vernier calipers is usually 0.001 in, whereas the resolution of metric calipers is either 0.05mm or 0.02mm.
A caliper’s resolution is indicated at the end of the vernier scale.
Instrument Error or Tolerance
Vernier calipers, like micrometers, are the tools more commonly used for low tolerance measuring. Low tolerance measuring tools provide very accurate measurements, with a small margin for error.
The instrument error of most vernier calipers is +- 0.03mm (+- 0.0015 in), making the tool very useful if you are looking for a high level of precision in your measurements.
Most verniers are capable of measuring outside dimensions, inside dimensions and depth. Some calipers, which incorporate quadri feature, can also be used to take step measurements.
What is the difference between a dial caliper and a vernier caliper?
Dial calipers and vernier calipers provide measurements of the same accuracy. The primary difference between the two tools is the way these measurements are displayed. The dial on the dial caliper makes it an easier tool to read. However, many people are used to the more traditional vernier scale and so prefer to use the vernier caliper.
The dial on the dial caliper makes it an easier tool to read. However, many people are used to the more traditional vernier scale and so prefer to use the vernier caliper.
The Rise of the Digital Vernier Caliper
Some users prefer traditional vernier calipers but in this digital world, of course we have the option of using digital vernier calipers. They are a little more expensive that traditional vernier calipers, naturally, but they are very accurate. Here’s our review of digital vernier calipers.
Unlike dial calipers and vernier calipers, digital calipers do not have a rack and pinion mechanism.Instead, they are able to take measurements because of a series of capacitance sensors that run along the length of the beam.
These sensors detect changes in electrical charge that occurs when the distance between the jaws changes. Underneath the scale of the caliper, there are a number of rectangular plates engraved onto a copper or glass strip.
