Vernier Caliper is a measuring device which is widely used in educational institutions for measuring the diameter of round objects such as: cylinders, balls, etc. You may have used it in your school or college practical.
Vernier scale is a very useful measuring device which gives an accurate reading of round objects placed between its jaws.
Definition:
Vernier Caliper is a measuring instrument which consists of an L-shaped with a linear scale along its longer arm and an L-shaped sliding attachment with a Vernier, used to read the dimensions of an object placed between its two inner or outer arms.
Uses of Vernier Caliper:
Vernier Caliper is not only used in schools or colleges but it is also used in industrial sectors. Here are some of its uses:
- It is used in machine shops for measuring the dimensions of different parts of aircrafts, ships, automobiles, etc.
- It is used in medical industry to measure the exact depths and thicknesses of instruments that are used to perform wide range of diagnostics and surgical operations.
- It is used in a large number of laboratory-based applications.
- It is used in Locksmithing applications. Locksmith uses Vernier caliper to cut metallic lock surfaces accurately so that it can be turn or un-turn comfortably.
- It is used in physics laboratory of schools and colleges. A teacher in institutions tells about the uses of Vernier caliper and bestows the students with the opportunity of using it in practicals.
Least Count:
Least count is referred as the smallest value that can be measured by the measuring instrument. In Vernier scale, the difference between the value of one main scale division and the value of one Vernier scale division is known as its least count. Vernier scale’s least count is also known as Vernier constant.
Least count of Vernier Caliper can be found by using a formula which is described below:
Least count = 1 main scale division – 1 vernier scale division
Now, we know
10 divisions in main scale = 1cm
1 division in main scale (1 MSD) = 1/10 = 0.1 cm
10 division in vernier scale = 9 division on main scale
1 division in vernier scale (1 VSD) = 9/10 division on main scale (MSD)
Least count = 1 MSD – 1 VSD = (1–9/10) MSD
Least count = 1/10 MSD = 0.1 × 0.1 = 0.01 cm
Least count = 0.01 cm (ans)
Types of Vernier Caliper:
Vernier caliper has mainly 3 types which are listed below:
- Dial Calipers: It has a dial that displays the reading with an indicator needle.
- Manual or Vernier Calipers: It has two scales, which shows both imperial and metric measurements.
- Digital or Electronic Calipers: It has a digital display window which shows reading in it.
Parts of Vernier Caliper:
Vernier caliper is consisted of following parts:
- Internal Jaws
- External Jaws
- Main Arm
- Sliding Arm
- Depth Measuring Probe
- Locking Screw