23 Different Types Of Measuring Tools You Can Use Anywhere

Measuring tools are an important invention of civilization.

As science continues to evolve, it's important for measurement readings to become even more precise. The aim is to decrease the room for error with the introduction of modern tools.

For many professions, tools have been invented that can ease the manual labor required for those people working in particular fields. These tools help to measure quantities and the units are assigned on the basis of the quantity measured.

Using such measuring equipment helps to improve the consistency of the measurements of the various quantities of elements. Accuracy in reading also increases the speed of the production process of many industries. Read on to know more about measuring tools, their uses, types, and more.

An Introduction To Measuring Tools

Any instrument that helps to measure a physical quantity is called a measuring tool. Objects are measured on the basis of units and the result of the measurements is established by assigning numbers.

• Measurement is the process of obtaining and comparing the values of physical quantities with the established standards objects called units.
• Measuring tools are used when a tool with numbers assigned is used to measure something. These tools are the means by which a physical quantity is related to standard physical units.
• In simpler terms, measuring tools are devices that are used for measuring any given quantity ranging from length and breadth and parameters to electrical power. All instruments are subject to at least a few degrees of measurement error.
• Some examples of these tools range from simple objects such as a ruler or a tape measure to complex measurement instruments like particle accelerators and electron microscopes.
• Modern devices are largely being produced with the help of virtual instrumentation.

Different Types Of Measuring Tools

Various types of tools are available for different fields which assure precise measurement of any given quantity. They are a method of observing and recording the value of quantities in the world around us. The below list of some of the various tools introduces you to some of the typical measure devices and outlines their functions.

Some examples of analog measurement tools are as follows.

• Angle locator: The angle locator or the angle finder assists in the easy measurements of angular portions. It can measure angles from zero to ninety degrees.
• Calipers: Calipers are the most trustworthy measurement tool to find out the distance between two opposite sides of an object. Calipers come in digital forms too.
• Compass: One of the four great inventions of China, the compass kick-started the age of sea exploration in the world. The working mechanism relies on the Earth's gravitation pull and relative to it, the compass shows a direction to the operator.
• Pressure gauge: A pressure gauge is used to record the pressure of anything ranging from atmospheric pressure to blood pressure. Of course, the devices vary based on their function.
• Measuring square: We also know this tool as the carpenter's square. A measuring square consists of two rulers joined at a right angle. We use them in woodwork to mark angular cuts.
• Some digital measuring tools are as follows.
• Thermometer: One of the extensively used tools for measurements of temperature, you will find this tool in almost all households. Digital thermometers, which are increasingly common, produce much faster results than analog ones.
• Laser level: A laser level is a self-leveling tool allowing visual confirmation of horizontal and vertical leveling by emitting a colored beam.
• Angle gauge: A modernized way to measure angles more precisely is a digital angle gauge. It shows the angle of an area instantly on the digital screen when you place it on the surface.

Measuring Tools For Length

Length measuring tools are the most basic but important components found at construction sites. There are many tools available that are used to measure length, and you will find some elementary ones as part of every construction job, regardless of whether it's a small or large job.

• Ruler: The straight edge ruler or the simple ruler is the most important device used for measurements of length. Almost everyone has used a ruler at some stage in their life, typically starting at school. The edge of the ruler is calibrated with the markings of a standard ruler. It's used to measure length, maintain symmetry, and check the displacement lines. The utility of straight edge rulers depends on the material that is used in the production of the ruler. For example, metal rulers are preferred over plastic or wooden rulers due to their durability and accurate markings.
• Tape Measure: Another common measurement tool that you find widely at every small or big construction site is the tape measure. The tape measure or measuring tape is used to measure the length of any element. It's a small measuring tool that has a metal ruler attached to it. The ruler can be rolled in and extended outwards according to convenience. A wide tape measure can measure long distances. On the tip of the tape, there is a bent hook-like structure that can be secured at one end of the item you wish to measure. This assures accurate measuring.
• Tape Reel: When you want to measure things much longer than the reaching capabilities of rulers or measuring tapes, a measuring tape reel comes in handy. It's a long measuring tape that enables you to measure up to 100 ft (30.48 m) and the tape remains rolled in a reel. It doesn't allow compactness like metal scales. It also has a hook with an opening at the end, like the measuring tape, which helps to secure the tape while measuring long distances. A tape reel is more suitable to measure longer lengths with this long tape than smaller units.
• Measuring Wheel: The measuring wheel is another device that gives accurate measurements for longer lengths. Rolling the wheel from one point to another gives a number on the counters, which shows the actual distance covered by the wheel. The wheel can measure thousands of feet.
• Laser Tape: Finally, the newest entry in the list of length measurement tools is laser tape measurement. It's currently the most accurate and precise mode of measurement of length. It uses the technologies of optics and laser physics for determining the length. The laser tapes can measure lengths up to 300 ft (91.44 m).

Measuring Tools For Drawing

Drafting tools are used for the measurement and creation of drawings. It helps in the improvement of standard drawing elements. There are many measurement tools that are used for drawing.

• Pens and Pencils: Very basic tools like pens and pencils are also used as measuring devices. Pens and pencils are used for marking on the drawing medium.
• Rulers: Measuring equipment such as straight edge rulers help people to draw straight lines while measuring. It is also utilized for drawing repeated complicated shapes. There are different types of scales that are used to measure the length and distance while drawing.
• Protractor: A protractor is a measuring device that helps in measuring angles with accuracy. For drawing arcs and circles, you can use the compass of the geometry box.
• Drawing Board: To keep the drawing steady and in place, a drawing board is commonly used.
• Paper: To draw technical drawings precisely, certain types of paper are used. From silky drafting paper to thick, strong paper; also tracing paper and tubes are used to make accurate drawings.
• Guides: Templates and lettering guides assist the operator to draw repetitive symbols or drawings such as circles, ellipses, or text. Some auxiliary tools also help in drawing for special purposes or functions.

However, currently, manual drawing elements for technical drawing are typically substituted because of the introduction of digital measuring tools, along with computer-aided design and drafting (CADD).