Basic Measuring, Marking and Cutting Tools
In production process, components are fabricated, formulated or
produced with the help of either machines or manual efforts. The
fitting operations, which usually require large number of tools and
equipment
Basic Operations in Engineering Workshop
Depending on the work requirement, after selection of material(s), some of the
basic operations in the workshop not in a specific/compulsory order, include:
1) Marking 2) Cutting 3) Sawing
4) Filing 5) Planning 6) Punching
6) Chiseling 7) Casting 8) Moulding
9) Chamfering 10) Drilling 11) Welding
12) Soldering 13) Screwing 14) Finishing
15) Labelling 16) Packaging 17) Threading
18) Forging 19) Grinding 20) Reaming
Measuring Length with rules
The simplest, easiest and most common practice of length measurement is by the
use of meter rule, straight edge or square, scale rule or tape rule, marking gauge,
try square, bevel square (which is an adjustable try square) mortise gage. It is the
safest traditional direct measuring method. Some of the devices are shown in Figure
1.1 – 1.6.
Vernier Instruments
Vernier caliper
Micrometres
The micrometre’s measuring accuracy relies on the accuracy of the spindle
screw thread. The spindle is rotated in a fixed nut by means of the thimble,
which opens and closes the distance between the ends of the spindle and anvil.
Common Measuring Tools:
1. Steel Rule:
• Simple and easy to use.
• Suitable for quick, rough measurements.
• Durable and cost-effective.
2. Vernier Caliper:
High precision (±0.02 mm) for internal, external, and depth
measurements.
Versatile for different types of dimensions.
Easy to read with the Vernier scale.
3. Micrometer:
Extreme accuracy (±0.001 mm) for small
dimensions.
Ideal for measuring fine tolerances.
Consistent measurements with a ratchet stop.
4. Dial Gauge (Indicator):
Measures small displacements with high
sensitivity.
Useful for checking surface flatness and
alignment.
Provides consistent readings in repetitive
measurements.
5. Protractor:
Measures angles with ease (±1°
precision).
Useful for checking and marking
angular cuts.
Available in both digital and analog
forms.
6. Height Gauge:
Accurate vertical measurements
(±0.01 mm).
Ideal for scribing on workpieces.
Ensures repeatability in height
measurements
Common Marking Tools:
1. Scriber:
Provides sharp, clear lines on
metals.
Durable and suitable for hard
materials.
Simple and easy to handle.
2. Center Punch:
Creates an indentation to guide
drill bits.
Reduces drill bit [Link]
for both hard and soft materials.
3. Marking Blue/Dye:
Enhances visibility of lines.
Easy to apply and remove.
Ideal for precision marking and inspection.
4. Dividers:
Accurate in marking circles and arcs.
Suitable for repeated dimensions.
Easy to adjust and lock.
5. Try Square:
Ensures perfect 90° angles.
Ideal for checking squareness.
Rigid and resistant to wear.
Cutting Tools
Cutting tools are essential tools for shaping and removing
material through manual or machine operations.
Manual Cutting Tools:
1. Hacksaw:
Portable and easy to use.
Cuts a variety of materials (metal, plastic).
Replaceable blades for extended use.
2. File:
Smoothens and removes burrs.
Works on various materials.
Available in multiple shapes (flat, round, triangular).
3. Chisel (Cold Chisel):
Cuts through hard materials without heat.
Works on metal sheets and rods.
Strong and durable under force.
4. Snips/Shears:
Ideal for cutting thin sheets (e.g., aluminum).
Lightweight and easy to handle.
Provides clean, precise cuts.
Machine Cutting Tools:
1. Lathe Machine:
Produces precise cylindrical and threaded parts.
Suitable for both soft and hard materials.
Allows mass production with consistency.
2. Milling Machine:
Versatile for flat and complex surfaces.
Can perform drilling, slotting, and cutting.
High-speed operation for efficiency.
3. Drill Press:
Accurate and vertical drilling.
Suitable for deep and wide holes.
Consistent performance with minimal deviation.
•Grinding Machine:
• Provides smooth and polished
finishes.
• Suitable for hard materials (e.g.,
steel).
• Efficient for material removal and
sharpening.
•Plasma Cutter:
• Fast and precise for cutting metals.
• Handles thick materials with ease.
• Works on conductive materials like
steel and aluminum.
BASIC HAND AND POWER (MACHINE) TOOLS