What is the role of a caliper in machining?

A caliper is a precision measuring tool used in machining to measure the distance between two opposite sides of an object. Its primary role is to provide accurate measurements of various dimensions, including internal and external diameters, which is critical for ensuring parts are manufactured to specified tolerances.

When measuring diameter, calipers can effectively assess the width of cylindrical components, allowing machinists to confirm that parts fit together correctly or meet design specifications. This ability to measure diameters is essential in machining, as many components involve round features, such as shafts, pipes, or holes.

While calipers can also be utilized to measure depth and length, the specific focus of this question is on diameter, highlighting a key aspect of their functionality that is particularly relevant in machining applications.