Types of Measuring Tools: All You Need for a Precise Work

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Types of Measuring Tools

Are you about to start a new career or a project dealing with precise measuring? Are you not sure which types of measuring tools you need to have before getting started? Well, look no further! We’ve accumulated a list of different measuring tools and you can find which tools need to be on your shopping list before starting the job. Let’s not waste any time and find out what you need.

Types of Measuring Tools and Their Uses

You probably don’t want us to name types of measuring tools like a laundry list. You have one or more specific applications in mind and you want to know what measuring tools you need for them. Or maybe, you want to make sure a type of measuring tool you already have on hand is suited for your job. So, let’s just let you in on the answers to your questions.

Measuring Tools List 

Here’s a table providing a list of measuring tools you’ll need to start or complete your task.

list of measuring instruments

Types of Precision Measuring Tools

Our first stop is the precision measuring tools that are used for a wide range of jobs such as machining and fabrication, quality control, electronics manufacturing, laboratory experiments, mapping, medical uses, and many more. But why is it necessary to use precision measuring tools for these jobs?

Order Wholesale Measuring Tools Designed to Attract Customers

why we should use precision measuring tools
  • Minimizing errors and waste
  • Ensuring safety
  • Repeatability and consistency
  • Meeting industry standards
  • Technological advancements

Okay. So, this is the reason why we need precision. But what measuring tools are considered precision ones?

Each of the tools in this list is used for:

Micrometers: Measuring very small distances (typically up to 1 inch) with accuracy showing measurements down to thousandths of an inch.

Calipers: Measuring distances between two opposite sides of an object. They can be vernier, dial, or digital.

Read more: Choose the Best Measuring Tools

calipers as a type of measuring tools

Bore Gauges: Measuring the diameter of holes, bores, or cylinders.

Dial Test Indicators (DTI): Measuring the small linear distances or small variations in surface flatness.

Height Gauges: Measuring the vertical distance between a reference surface and a specific point on the object or feature being measured.

Depth Gauges: Measuring the depth of slots, holes, and recesses in a workpiece

Gauge Blocks: Also known as Jo blocks or slip gauges, precision-machined blocks of metal or ceramic are used for setting and calibrating other measuring instruments and making highly accurate measurements.

Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM): Measuring the complex geometrical characteristics of 3D objects with high precision. Essential for quality control and product development.

Laser Measurement Tools: Laser distance meters and laser scanners are used for distances and to create digital profiles of objects.

laser distance meter

Theodolites: Optical instruments for measuring angles in horizontal and vertical planes.

Total Stations: This tool combines a theodolite with an electronic distance meter for comprehensive measurements.

Micropipettes: For measuring and transferring very small volumes of liquid in biology labs.

Micropipettes in use

Data Collection Systems: To collect, store, and analyze measurement data from various sources.

Squares and Precision Rules: Squares and precision rules to measure and mark straight lines, angles, and dimensions with high accuracy.

Protractors and Angle Measurements: To measure and draw angles

Machinist Precision Levels: To Check the flatness and alignment of surfaces and machinery.

Profilometers: For measuring surface texture and roughness

Read more: Best Measuring Tools for Woodworking

profilometer as a type of measuring tools

Fixed Gage Standard: Also known as reference standards or master gages are used to calibrate and verify the accuracy of measuring instruments.

Dividers and Trammels: To mark and transfer precise measurements or distances onto workpieces.

Types of Measuring Tools for Workshops

Different tasks get done in a workshop and each requires different types of measuring tools. So, you need different sets of tools for each. Let’s take a look.

For basic measurement functions, you need:

Rulers

Tape Measures: Ideal for longer distances and curved surfaces (Ronix RH-9030)

Folding Rules: Portable for projects on the go

Squares: Try and combination to ensure right angles, level, mark, and more

Protractors: for measuring and transferring angles

Related Product: Ronix RH-9050

protractors in use

For marking materials, you need:

Marking Knives: For scribing precise lines on different materials

Center Punches: For creating small indentations to mark the drill starting point

center punches with springs

Marking Gauges: For marking parallel lines at specific distances

Scriber: For marking lines on workpieces, finer than marking knives

Scriber in use

For leveling and alignment, you need:

Levels: For making sure the surface is horizontal or vertical

Torpedo Levels: Compact levels for tight spaces

torpedo levels

Some other types of measuring tools you might need are:

Thread Pitch Gauges: For identifying the thread size of screws, nuts, and bolts

Angle Finders: For measuring angles between surfaces

Types of Measuring Tools for Carpentry

Well, carpenters work in workshops so a great part of the measuring tools they use are in the list above. Besides those, they also use:

Carpenter’s Pencils: To provide a broader line that’s more visible

Bevel Gauges: To measure and replicate angles, especially irregular ones, for cutting and shaping wood

Angle Gauges: For measuring and setting angles accurately for miter cuts and joinery

Chalk Line Reels: For creating straight reference lines over long distances on wood

Framing Squares: Also known as carpenter squares, for framing and layout work

framing square as a type of measuring tool

Carpenter’s Levels: Specifically designed for woodworking tasks with magnetic edges

Sliding T-Bevels: For transferring angles and making precise angle cuts

Carpenter’s Compass: For scribing arcs and circles on wood surfaces

Miter Square: For setting and marking accurate angles for angled cuts

Speed Square: Combines square, level, and marking features

Rafter Square: For laying out and marking roof rafters with a correct pitch or angle

Types of Measuring Tools for Plumbing

If you’re just starting a career as a plumber and you want to know which types of measuring tools you’re going to need at the beginning of your job, it’s your lucky day! But you don’t need to be a beginner for the following text to help you. The world of tools is expanding day-by-day and you need to update your toolbox now and then. Who knows, there might be a lot of different measuring tools out there that are going to make your life way easier. So, let’s find out about the world of plumbing life facilitators!

If you’re a beginner in plumbing, different types of measuring tools you need are:

Pipe Wrench: With scale for measuring pipe diameter

pipe wrench with scale

Torpedo Level: A small level suitable for checking the level on short runs and ensuring proper drainage slopes in pipes

Bubble Level: For leveling faucets or showerheads

Pipe Thread Gauge: For identifying the thread size and pitch of pipes and fittings

Pipe Cutter: With built-in scale

Tape Measure

Related Product: Ronix RH-9078

Folding Rule

Marking Pencils

A tubing cutter with scale and a soapstone for marking pipes are optional but can greatly help you along the way.

And if you’re a professional plumber looking to upgrade your measuring game, keep these tools in mind:

Pipe Thread Gauge: For identifying the thread size and pitch of pipes and fittings to prevent leaks

pipe thread gauge as a measuring tool

Laser Level: Not essential but helps a lot with having precise alignments over longer distances

Pipe Benders: For bending pipes to specific angles without kinks or crimping

Pipe Fitting Gauges: To ensure proper fit between pipes and fittings

Plumb Bob: For establishing a true vertical reference line

Pressure Gauges: For measuring the pressure of liquids or gasses in plumbing systems

Flow Meters: For measuring the rate of fluid flow in pipes

Temperature Gauges: For monitoring the temperature of fluids in plumbing systems

temperature gauge

Electronic Leak Detector (optional)

Depth Gauge


Types of Measuring Tools for Electrical Work

When someone is doing electrical work, being precise extremely matters to not endanger the worker’s safety. Therefore, using measuring tools is in order so that one can make sure of proper functioning, and compliance with electrical codes and standards. Let’s get to know these tools and their uses.

Multimeter (digital or analog): to measure voltage, current, and resistance in electrical circuits

Voltage Tester: Also known as voltage detectors or non-contact voltage testers is to determine if a circuit is live without direct contact

Clamp Meter: to measure the electrical current without disconnecting a conductor

Ohmmeter: to measure electrical resistance in circuits, components, and conductors

ohmmeter as a measuring tool

Insulation Tester (megger): to measure the insulation resistance of wires and cables. Necessary to prevent electrical breakdowns.

Circuit Analyzer: To test circuits for ground faults, open circuits, and short circuits.

Power Quality Analyzer: To look out for voltage fluctuations, harmonics, surges, and other parameters.

Continuity Tester: To test the continuity of electrical circuits and connections and verify correct wiring.

Phase Rotation Tester: to determine the sequence of phases in three-phase electrical systems to make sure of proper wiring and phase and phase sequence in motors, generators, etc.

phase rotation tester

Ground Resistance Tester: To measure the resistance of ground systems and electrodes and make sure they meet the standards

Tachometer: To measure the rotational speed of motors, generators, and other rotating machinery

LUX Meter: To measure the intensity of light in a given area

Wire Gauge (AWG): Also known as American Wire Gauge, is used to identify the wire diameter

Hopefully, now you have a good overview of the different types of measuring tools that are used in various professions. If you’re starting any of these professions, you might need to buy some of the aforementioned tools and if you’re already a professional, now you have a good sense of what might come to your aid and make your job easier.

FAQs:

What is the most popular type of measuring tool?

Rulers are the most popular type of measuring tool.

How accurate are measuring tools?

The accuracy of measuring tools depends on many factors and high-precision is one of them. Calibration, user technique, and environmental con

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 2

Sara

9 April 2024

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