Depth Gauges
Getting an accurate reading of a component's depth can be near impossible without the right tool. If you're looking for a precision instrument to measure the internal diameter of pipes or the depth of an object, a depth gauge is your best bet. Also called vernier depth gauges, these measurement instruments are available in digital and analogue versions. While you will have to interpret results manually on analogue depth gauges, digital readings are easy to read on digital depth gauges, which come with LCD screens.
Types of Depth Gauges
There are several types of depth gauges, each with their unique key features ideal use case scenarios.
Digital Depth Gauges
Digital depth gauges can refer to both digital calipers and depth micrometers. The key feature of digital depth gauges is the ease of interpreting results. Digital depth gauges eliminate the possibility of parallax error with results being displayed on an LCD screen in millimeters, centimeters, or inches. They can be found in classrooms, workshops, and laboratories.
Analogue and Dial Depth Gauges
Plunger and dial depth gauges make up the two types of analogue and dial depth gauges. Plunger depth gauges are precision comparative measurement tools. They are used for the repetitive checking of flatness, runout or machine alignment. A lever depth gauge uses a pivoting lever arm to detect small surface variations with angular motion. They are suited for accessing tight spaces that cannot be reached with other depth gauges.
Vernier Depth Gauges
Vernier depth gauges have a distinctive pair of jaws. The smaller ones measure the internal diameters of objects, while the larger ones measure the diameter or width of objects. Results are interpreted by combining the main and vernier scale readings. Because vernier depth gauges don't require batteries and are fairly accurate, they are suitable for general workshop and on-site use where high-precision digital readouts aren't critical.
Micrometer Depth Gauges (Depth Micrometers)
Micrometer depth gauges are T-shaped precision measurement tools used to measure the depths of holes, slots and recesses. A rachet is gradually rotated by hand, which lowers the thimble and spindle incrementally. The measurements are read once the spindle face encounters the maximum depth of the recess. You'll find micrometer depth gauges in settings like machining workshops, manufacturing plants and quality control laboratories.
Benefits of Using Depth Gauges
Depth gauges provide accurate and repeatable measurements of various depths, from indented surfaces to wall cavities. They are important for upholding quality control, as well as maintaining product performance and safety.
Utilising depth gauges provide the following key benefits:
- Enhances accuracy: Provides precise depth measurements for standardised fittings ideal for global trade.
- Improves quality control: Ensures components meet design specifications; elevates build quality.
- Consistent comparative measurements: Delivers consistent measurements across repetitive checks.
- Reduces errors: Usage of digital depth gauges minimises human errors.
- Optimises manufacturing processes: Contributes to efficient production by validating depths early.
How Depth Gauges Work
Depth gauges use a variety of methods to accurately measure the depth of holes and the internal diameters or surfaces, or objects.
- Vernier calipers: Measures depth by gently clamping down on the subject. Readings comprise of measurements from the main and vernier scale.
- Plunger dial gauges: Utilises contact points that move in and out and displays results on a dial indicator.
- Lever dial gauge: Uses a pivoting lever arm and angular motion to detect surface variations. Displays results on a dial indicator.
- Digital depth gauge: A spindle is manually lowered until it touches the subject. Readings can be read off an LCD screen.
- Depth micrometers: A spindle is manually lowered until it touches the subject. Readings comprise of measurements from the main and auxiliary scale.
Applications of Depth Gauges
Depth gauges are essential across various industries for accurate measurement, ensuring product quality and adherence to strict specifications. The versatility of these precision tools make them critical for tasks requiring accurate dimensional verification.
Here are some common industries and use-cases where depth gauges are utilised:
Manufacturing and machining
Used to measure the depth of drilled holes, milled slots, counterbores, and recesses in components, ensuring precise dimensions during production and quality control.
Automotive industry
Employed for critical measurements like tire tread depth, brake disc wear, and the depth of various engine components, which are vital for safety and performance.
Aerospace
Crucial for verifying the depth of highly critical components in aircraft manufacturing and maintenance, where even minute deviations can have significant safety implications.
Tool and die making
Essential for creating molds, dies, and tooling with precise depths, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of manufactured parts.
Construction
Utilised for various measurement and alignment tasks, such as checking the depth of foundations, concrete pours, or structural elements to ensure build quality and stability.
How to Choose the Right Depth Gauge
When selecting a depth gauge, consider what tolerance for error, measurement range and type of readout is acceptable for your application. For tasks that demand extreme precision, such as in critical aerospace components, a micrometer depth gauge is ideal due to its superior resolution. For quick, repetitive measurements where ease of reading is paramount, a digital or dial depth gauge is more suitable. Finally, you should also prioritise depth gauges made for durability, if the tool is intended for use in harsh industrial settings. This will help ensure that your depth gauge performs at optimum levels for a long time to come.
How to Order Depth Gauges from RS?
RS Hong Kong is your trusted supplier of accurate digital and analogue depth gauges. We stock a wide range of products from leading brands such as Mitutoyo, Facom and Moore & Wright. We also carry other testing and measurement peripherals such as load banks and force gauges. Simply place your order online and check out.
For more information on delivery services and fees, please refer to our delivery page.