Question 5

Explain how a vernier caliper is calibrated?

Figure 1.0 Vernier Caliper

Apparatus needed:
1. Gauge blocks
2. Calibrated micrometer
3. Reference surface (e.g. Granite plate )
Calibration procedure:

Clean the Vernier Calipers measuring surfaces, the granite surface, and the
gauge blocks to be used.

Zero the Vernier Caliper at the start and adjust as required by the
manufacturers specifications. If cannot be zeroed, it is then mark as a fail.

Temperature should be at 23C 5C and humidity at 45% 10%

Make a visual and touch inspection. Inspect the inside and Outside Jaws,
Depth Gauge and sliding jaw for smooth movement. There should not be any
damage, nicks, or burrs. It should have straight and parallel faces with no
free play over the whole length.

Test for Outside Jaws:

1.
2.
3.
4.

Using gauge blacks measure 5 different length.

Record values obtain on vernier caliper
Compare readings with their respective gauge block.
Reading should be within limits 0.05mm to be acceptable

Test for Inside Jaws:

1. Using a calibrated micrometer measure gauge blocks of appropriate length
and lock the micrometer at that length
2. Measure the distance between the micrometer anvils using the inside jaw of
the vernier caliper
3. Record reading on vernier caliper
4. Compare readings with their respective gauge blocks
5. Reading should be within limits 0.05mm to be acceptable

Test for Depth Gauge:

1. Two equal stacks of gauge blocks are made on the granite surface to a height
in the mid range of the depth gauge.
2. The height of the two stacks of gauge blocks, with the rod between the two
stacks is recorded and the flat part of the instrument flushed against the top
of each of the two stacks.
3. Reading on vernier caliper is recorded
4. Compare reading with the respective gauge block
5. Reading should be within limits 0.05mm to be acceptable

Question 9
National Standard

Secondary Standards
It is made nearly as close as possible to the primary standard with which they are
compared at intervals and records of their derivation from it. It used occasionally for
comparison with the tertiary standard.

Working Standards
These standards are used in laboratories and similar institution. They are derived
from the fundamental standards. They are referred to as the reference standard
and calibration standards.