Height gauge is a measuring tool that combines the functions of a caliper and a height gauge. It is primarily used to measure the height, depth, and step height of workpieces, making it especially suitable for measuring areas that are difficult to reach with conventional rulers or calipers.
As seen in the image above, height gages are composed of several different parts. Although different types feature different components, some of the main body parts are consistent across every gage:
Beam: The vertical column on which the slider moves to take measurements. On Vernier height gages, the beam typically features two engraved scales (imperial and metric) that take the main measurement. More sophisticated, digital gages feature a dual beam that facilitates the slider movement.
Base: Height gages feature a solid base designed to give stability to the vertical columns and keep it perpendicular to the table’s surface. A solid base is an extremely important feature, especially when it comes to oversized Vernier height gauges.
Slider: A unit connected to the beam that slides up and down. The sliders on Vernier gages feature a scale used to take measurements with an accuracy of 0.001” while electronic gages feature an electronic measuring slider mounted on the beam.
Fixing device: The fixing device connects the slider to the scriber, test indicator or touch probe.Most height gauges come with a scriber by default. It makes it easy to scribe a line, particularly in layout dye, in on a part at a specific height.
1.Types of height gauges
Vernier height gauge is one of the most common mechanical height gauge, It uses a vernier scale to provide highly accurate manual readings. Available in a wide range of sizes from 300mm to 1500mm for metric measurement and from 12’’ to 60’’ for inch measurement. Vernier height gauge are suitable for measuring both small and large components.
A dial height gauge operates similarly to a vernier height gauge but features a dial indicator instead of a vernier scale, this makes reading the device easier than a vernier scale. However, dial height gauge are generally available with sizes from 300mm to 600mm for metric and from 12’’ to 24’’ for inch, making them more suitable for suitable for smaller workpieces.
Digital counter height gauge combines traditional dial measurement with a dual-digit counter system, reducing the time required for layout work. One counter can be set at a fixed reference datum, while the other fuctions as a floating zero, allowing for quick height comparisons.
This type oh height gauge is particularly useful when multiple height measurements need to be takend relative to a single reference point, streamlining the inspection process.
Digital height gauge offers a digital readout, eliminating the need for manual scale interpretation. It typically includes features such as metric/inch conversion, absolute zero, data output.etc.
2.Height gauges functions
