vernier caliper

Precision instrument for measuring the thickness and diameter of mechanical parts.

main scale

The divisions marked on the vernier to obtain fine measurements.

clamping block

Part that chocks the vernier against the part to be measured.

ruler

Graduated instrument ending in a fixed jaw that measures the thickness or diameter of an object.

vernier

Small graduated rule that slides along the ruler and is used to read very precise measurements.

fixed jaw

Tapered part at the end of the ruler that supports the object to be measured; the object is place between the two jaws, which are gently tightened.

fine adjustment wheel

Thumbwheel for making very fine adjustments to the sliding jaw’s position.

clamping screws

Screws that lock the vernier and the clamping block in their final positions in order to preserve the measurement obtained.

vernier scale

The divisions of equal length that are marked on the vernier and constitute the units of measurement.

sliding jaw

Tapered part attached to the end of the vernier that slides along the ruler to the object to be measured.