Calipers are an integral tool for many applications, yet they’re a tool that likely doesn’t garner much reflection. Whether you’ve been using them for years or are investing in them for the first time, here are the ins and outs of caliper design and use that you’ll want to keep in mind.

Whether you’re talking about measurement checks in the quality room or a quick, accurate check on the shop floor, height gages remain one of the most useful tools in metrology today. 

Hand tools are the workhorse of the industry. Every metrologist has a variety of hand tools in his toolbox. You’re sure to find one, two or several micrometers in that toolbox to accurately measure thickness, outer and inner diameters, as well as depth of slots.

A height gage does exactly as its name indicates—measures the height of a workpiece.