Vernier Callipers

Introduction

A calliper is a tool for measuring the distance between two opposite surfaces of an item. It might be as basic as a compass with arrows pointing inside or outside. The calliper ends are positioned to fit across the positions to be measured, after which the calliper is withdrawn, and the distance between the tips is measured with a ruler.

Pierre Vernier of France invented the vernier calliper, a tool for obtaining extremely precise linear measurements, in 1631. The vernier calliper comprises a primary scale with a jaw at one end. Another jaw glides over the main scale, housing the vernier scale. When the two jaws come into contact, the zeros of the main scale and the Vernier scale should line up. If two zeros do not align, there will be a positive or negative zero error. Here are the complete study material notes on vernier callipers.

Structure of Vernier Callipers 

1. A vernier calliper features two scales: the main scale and a vernier scale that moves along the main scale.
2. The main and vernier scales are split into minor divisions of varying magnitudes.
3. The primary scale is graded in centimetres and millimetres.
4. It features two fixed jaws positioned at right angles to the scale. Jaws extend at right angles from the sliding vernier scale, and so does the main scale and a metallic strip. The zeros of the main scale and the vernier scale align whenever the jaws are brought together.
5. The jaws and metallic strip are intended to estimate object length or diameter.
6. The knob is used to move the vernier scale relative to the main scale.
7. A screw is used to secure the vernier scale in place.

Principle of Working Callipers

1. The gap in magnitude between one main scale division (M.S.D.) and one vernier scale division (V.S.D.) is the tool’s least count because it is the lowest distance that can be determined with the instrument.
2. (n) Vernier Scale Division = (n – 1) Main Scale Division
3. The least count of Vernier Callipers is given by the smallest division on the main scale divided by the total number of minor divisions on the vernier scale.
4. A rectangular body’s density Equals m/V or mass divided by volume.
5. The volume is expressed as l.b.h, where l is the length, b is the width, and h is the height.
6. If we consider the volume of a cylinder (hollow) with h’ as its inner depth, D as its diameter, and r as its inner radius, V = 𝜋r²h’ or V= (𝜋D²)/4h’ 

Working of Vernier Callipers

To measure the dimensions of a circular object using vernier callipers, we use the following steps:

1. Keep the vernier callipers’ jaws locked. Take note of the main scale’s zero point. It must be exactly aligned with the vernier scale. If this is not the case, consider the zero error for all readings recorded when using the instrument.
2. Look for a division on the vernier scale that corresponds to a division on the main scale. If you have a magnifying glass, use it to count the number of divisions on the vernier scale that correspond to the number of divisions on the main scale. To avoid parallax errors, place your sight precisely above the dividing mark.
3. Loosen the screw gently to unlock the moveable jaw. Slide it just enough to gently grip the circular body (but not too tightly) between the lower jaws. The jaws should be precisely perpendicular to the body’s diameter. Carefully clamp the screw to secure the instrument to the object in this place.
4. Take careful account of the placement of the vernier scale’s zero mark in relation to the main scale. Typically, it will not completely correspond with any minor divisions on the major scale. Take note of the main scale division directly to the left of the vernier scale’s zero point.
5. Begin searching for an identical match between a vernier scale division and the main scale division in the vernier window from the left end (zero) to the right. Carefully note this number.
6. Repeat the procedures to get the diameter of the body at various points along its curved surface. In each example, take three sets of reading.
7. Determine the arithmetic mean of the corrected readings of the object’s diameter. The findings should be expressed in proper units with an adequate number of significant figures.

Conclusion

Vernier callipers employs two graduated scales: a primary scale comparable to that on a ruler and a specifically graded auxiliary scale, the vernier, which glides parallel to the main scale and allows readings to a fraction of a division on the main scale. Vernier scales have ten divisions that are the same length as nine on the main scale. We can use a vernier scale to improve the precision of both angular and linear readings. Vernier callipers are commonly used for quality assurance measures in scientific facilities and industries.