Dividers

Dividers are a tool used primarily in the fields of drafting, engineering, woodworking, and metalworking to measure distances or to mark locations on materials. They consist of two straight adjustable legs hinged together at one end, similar in design to a compass, but used for measuring rather than drawing circles.

History

The use of dividers dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their use in Roman and Egyptian civilizations. They were essential tools for architects, engineers, and craftsmen for centuries, allowing for the accurate transfer of measurements and aiding in the creation of precise drawings and plans.

Types

There are several types of dividers, each designed for specific applications:

• Spring Dividers: The most common type, featuring a spring mechanism at the pivot point to adjust the legs' separation.
• Wing Dividers: These have a screw mechanism for fine adjustments, useful for precise measurements.
• Oddleg Dividers: Also known as a "Jenny caliper," they have one straight leg and another bent at a right angle, used for marking lines a set distance from an edge.

Usage

Dividers are used by placing the points on two locations on a material or a map to compare or transfer distances. In woodworking and metalworking, they are used to scribe circles or arcs and to layout distances. In drafting and engineering drawing, they are used to measure distances on plans or to scale measurements from plans to real-world sizes.

Maintenance

To ensure accuracy and longevity, dividers require regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the legs and hinge to remove debris and applying a light oil to the hinge to ensure smooth operation. The points should also be checked for sharpness, as dull points can lead to inaccurate measurements.

Safety

When using dividers, safety precautions should be taken to prevent injury. The sharp points can cause injury if not handled properly. It is recommended to cover the points when not in use and to handle the tool with care, especially when adjusting the legs.

See Also

• Compass (drafting)
• Caliper
• Ruler
• Measuring tape

Dividers Resources
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