Metal Layout Worker how-to

How to Use a Height Gauge

Height gauges mark precise lines.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Height gauges mark precise lines. In short: clean; zero; set, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Clean the surface plate.

  2. Zero the gauge.

  3. Set the height.

  4. Lock.

  5. Scribe the line.

  6. Verify.

Safety reminders for metal layout workers

  • Handle scribers carefully
  • Lift castings safely
  • Wear eye protection
  • Ventilate dye solvents

Layout dye · Scriber · Surface plate · Height gauge · Datum · Center punch: see the full metal layout worker glossary.

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