The metal tip at the end of your tape measure is a little bit loose for a reason . ... This isn't an error: it's meant to provide you with accurate readings whether you're measuring the inside or outside edge of a surface. This feature is known as “true zero”.
What is the small slot in the tape end for?
It is usually plastic or metal and about 3 inches in length. The hook is a bent piece of metal that hooks over the edge of a board or counter. It aids in extending the tape from the case and holding the tape in place for measuring . The hook slot is the hole at the end of the tape.
How does the end of a tape measure work?
At the very end of the tape measure and over the lip is a little notch inside the metal. This is for grabbing onto a nail or screw . By hooking the tape measure to that nail or screw, you can properly measure the distance without having someone else hold down the other end for you.
What are the rivets on a tape measure for?
That riveted metal tab that holds the end hook on the tape has travel in it for a reason . ... But also, if you hook the end onto a work piece, the play in the rivets will move the hook out to compensate for hooking onto the material, creating a 1/16′′ gap between the hook and the tape, allowing for an accurate measurement.
What is the end of a tape measure called?
Hook . If you've ever measured a table or other hard surface, you've likely used the hook at the end of the tape. This metal piece is loose on purpose since the first inch is 1/16th of an inch short, meaning it needs to be pulled taut to ensure accuracy.
What is the red dot on a tape measure?
The red is for 16-inch-on-center spacing . The common framing spacing is for wall studs, floor joists and roof rafters. There will be red marks on the tape measure if you decide to space frame at 24 inch centers.
What is the metal hook that mark zero on a measuring tape called?
Tang : The metal clip at the end of the tape, also known as the clip or hook. When reading the tape measure, the tang indicates zero.
Why is there a hole in a tape measure?
Nail Notch
Did you know that the little notch in the end of all tape measures is meant to hook on to a nail or screw ? If you don't have anyone to hold the other end of your tape measure, tap a nail in and hook your tape on to it.
Why are tape measures yellow?
Tape measures often have black and red measurements on a yellow background as this is the optimal color combination for readability .
What is M on a measuring tape?
On many tapes (but by no means all) you will find a small red rectangle with the letter M printed inside followed by a number. The number simply denotes the year that the blade was stamped as conforming to the Measuring Instruments Directive . On the whole this will also be the year in which that tape was manufactured.
Why does the end of a tape measure have three rivets?
Ever wonder why that hook on the end of a tape measure isn't fixed in position? It wiggles on its rivets to make up for the hook's thickness . ... But if the hook leaves you guessing when you're measuring short distances, line up the 1-inch mark at the start, then deduct that extra inch from the final measurement.
Who invented the tape measure?
On July 14, 1868, a Connecticut man named Alvin J. Fellows patented the spring-click tape measure.
What is the 8 foot rule on a tape measure?
If you look closely at your measuring tape, you'll see black diamonds every so often. Whether you've always wondered what they were or never noticed them before, we're here to enlighten. For every 8-foot section of your wall, there should be six studs placed 16 inches apart .
Which system is called Metric System Why?
The metric system is a called a decimal-based system because it is based on multiples of ten . Any measurement given in one metric unit (e.g., kilogram) can be converted to another metric unit (e.g., gram) simply by moving the decimal place.
What is the use of pull push rule?
A push pull rule is a measuring tape that coils into a compact case. It is used for measuring long, short, straight lengths .
Why are there 16 inches on a tape measure?
Note the Marks for Studs and Joists
Tape measures usually have a red mark every 16 inches. This makes it convenient to mark off wall studs or joists , which typically are 16 inches apart.
What rule is useful for measuring from round corners through hubs or for setting inside calipers?
Steel Hook Rules with Reversible Hook
These convenient Hook Rules permit accurate measurements, even when the user cannot see if the rule is aligned with the measuring edge . This is especially useful for measuring from round corners, through hubs, for setting inside calipers, etc .
What metal is a tape measure made of?
Blade material: The three materials most commonly used for tape measure blades are steel, stainless steel and fiberglass . Steel blades are durable, practical and economical.
What the mysterious black diamonds on measuring tapes are meant for?
The black diamonds on the tape measure represent that spacing . The first black diamond is at 19.2 inches” and after that black diamonds appear at 38.4, 57.6, 76.8, and 96 inches or 8 feet. That is one less stud for every 8 feet of wall, counting the beginning and end studs.
What is the most accurate tape measure?
Class 1 tapes are the most accurate tape measures on the market. Ideal for precision trades and sensitive industries, they also delivery great value for money.
What is the distance between the little black diamonds?
The black diamond marker on a tape measure falls between the 16-inch and 24-inch spacing . This marker is commonly used in building a concrete block chimney. But, it has other uses too. Marked at 19.2 inches apart, using this type of placement also allows for more weight loads with fewer pieces of wood.
Who makes Lufkin tapes?
| Product type Tape measure | Owner Apex Tool Group (2010) | Country United States | Introduced 1869 | Previous owners Cooper Industries (1967) |
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What is steel rule?
What is a steel rule? A steel rule is exactly what it sounds like... a rule manufactured from either spring or stainless steel that feature either metric or imperial (or both) scales along its length . One end is usually flat whilst the other end (frequently including a hole for hanging) is usually round.
Are tape measures accurate?
The tape measures themselves are manufactured with varying degrees of quality, but as per NIST Handbook 44 (PDF), a six-foot-long tape used for commerce must be accurate to within 1/32 of an inch . As anyone who's ever tried to build anything knows, our friend the humble tape measure is a useful tool.
What is the difference between a measuring tape and a tape measure?
They (both UK and US ones) tend to say measuring tape is another word for tape measure (Merriam-Webster [learner's dictionary], Oxford). Collins has measuring tape as an alternative for tape measure in its British English listings, but doesn't include it at all in American English.
What is the characteristics of tape measure?
A tape measure or measuring tape is a flexible ruler . It consists of a ribbon of cloth, plastic, fibre glass, or metal strip with linear-measurement markings. It is a common tool for measuring distance or length.
How many 16th are in an inch?
In this case, there are 16 units of smaller quantity (1/16 inch) in one unit of the larger quantity. Multiply the larger-quantity amount by the number of smaller units per unit of the larger quantity. Multiplying 16 by 0.5 gives you 8, so 8/16 equals 0.5 inches.
What is the maximum length of a long line tape?
What is the maximum length of a tape measure? The most common lengths for measuring tape are 12 feet, 25 feet, or 100 feet .
What is the difference in a type 1 and type 2 rated tape measure?
These are adequate for the majority of users and a Class II tape allows for a potential error of ±2.3mm over a 10m length. ... Class I rated tapes are the most accurate and an error of no more than ±1.1mm over a 10m length can be anticipated.
Can you use a metal tape measure to measure your waist?
It's not a good idea. Most metal tape measures aren't flexible enough to easily wrap around your waist, and you also risk cutting yourself on the metal edges. However, you can measure your waist with a length of string or yarn and then hold it up to a metal tape measure to find the circumference.
What is a mm on a ruler?
On a metric ruler, each individual line represents a millimeter (mm) . The numbers on the ruler represent centimeters (cm). There are 10 millimeters for each centimeter. ... 10 (1/10) of a centimeter, or 1 millimeter.
