Tape measures and rulers

Maintaining and repairing a car sometimes requires measuring linear dimensions of the parts. Tape measures are used tfind out the size of body parts and other large components. They are a flexible tape with a scale on it, coiled and placed in a compact case. These items are fitted with a special spring mechanism tretract the tape. Ttake measures of smaller components, rulers are used; these are narrow plates with at least one straight edge with a scale on it.

Types of tape measures

By the material the tape is made from: It can be:

• Metal. These devices are considered tbe more reliable and durable.
• Plastic. These instruments are usually cheaper.

By the design of a retractable mechanism:

• With a mechanical spring. In the course of time, it  can wear out and stop performing its functions.
• With an electric motor. Such a tool usually has a considerably longer service life.

By the design of the locking element:

• The tape is locked by pressing the button. These tools are characterised by a reliable design.
• With automatic locking. The tape is rolled up when the button is pressed. Items of this type prevent the tape from rolling up accidentally but have a shorter service life.

These products alsdiffer in the way they give measurement readouts. Some devices have only a tape with scales, others are fitted with an LCD display as well.

The length of the majority of tools in the catalogues varies between 2 and 10 metres. The measuring scale of the tool can show centimetres, inches or both.

Laser devices are alspopular. They measure the time which a beam needs treach the surface and, having been reflected, come back. According tthe value received, the device calculates the distance and shows the result on the screen. Such products feature high precision and measuring speed, are easy tuse and alsallow saving the readouts.

Types of rulers

By the material:

• Metal. The most durable.
• Plastic. Rather brittle. Items made from a transparent material are convenient tuse as they dnot obscure the component tbe measured.
• Wooden. They can become deformed if exposed tmoisture.

These tools can alshave scales in centimetres and inches and can be of different length. The most popular are the items with the length of 300, 500 and 1000 mm.

Tape measures and rulers: maintenance tips

1. Dnot kink the tape: this leads tits damage and decreases the accuracy of the measurements.
2. Avoid using these devices outside in rainy weather or in damp rooms. If it is necessary, wipe the tools when the work is done. Wet metal components become corroded very fast, which makes the scale hard tread and leads tthe failure of the spring and other parts.
3. If these items become covered with sand or dust, they should alsbe cleaned off. Otherwise, the parts of the spring and locking mechanisms might get abrasion damage.

Professional help from Buycarparts.co.uk

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