As a precision length measurement tool, vernier calipers are widely used in industrial production and scientific
research. However, not all sizes are suitable for measuring with vernier calipers. In order to ensure the accuracy
of the measurement, so we share some limitations of the use of vernier calipers and the types of sizes
it cannot measure.
Ⅰ. Limitations of the inside diameter measurement
The inner measuring jaw design of vernier calipers is mainly used to measure smaller bore sizes, usually above
3-4 mm. For inner diameters smaller than this range, the inner jaws of the vernier caliper may not be inserted,
or may not be reliably supported on the inner wall, resulting in inaccurate measurements. In this case, a special
small diameter gauge or electronic inner diameter measuring instrument should be used.
Ⅱ. Limitations of depth measurements
Although vernier calipers come with a depth gauge for measuring depth, it has certain limits on measuring depth.
The length of the depth gauge is fixed and usually does not exceed the maximum range of the vernier caliper,
and if the depth to be measured exceeds this length, the vernier caliper cannot be measured.
For deeper measurements, a dedicated depth gauge or depth vernier caliper is recommended.
Ⅲ. Limitations on surfaces and irregular surfaces
Vernier calipers are suitable for measuring the size of straight or regular curved surfaces, but for complex curvature
or irregular surfaces, vernier calipers can be difficult to measure. Its straight measuring surface may not fit perfectly
with a surface with large curvature or distortion, which can affect the measurement accuracy.
In such cases, a surface gauge or coordinate measuring machine is more suitable.
Ⅳ. Size limits that exceed the measuring range
Each vernier caliper has a fixed measuring range, beyond which it cannot be measured with a vernier caliper.
In order to measure large objects, a large range caliper or other type of measuring tool should be used.
Ⅴ. Measurement limitations in high-temperature environments
The use of vernier calipers in a high-temperature environment may cause their metal parts to swell, which in turn
can affect the measurement results. Therefore, it is not recommended to use vernier calipers for measurements
in environments where the temperature is significantly higher than room temperature. When measuring in
a high-temperature environment is required, a specially designed high-temperature measurement tool should
be considered.
