KEVOS® MAKEOS · Quality

V-Groove Measurement over a Pin

How far should a gauge pin stand above the surface in this V-groove?

Height of a gauge pin above (or below) the top surface of a V-groove, the depth of the sharp V and the pin contact positions.

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How this tool works

Inputs, units and where to find them

InputUnitTypical source
Included groove angle°Included angle between the two flanks from the drawing.
Groove width at the top surfacemmWidth of the groove where the flanks meet the top surface (sharp-edge theoretical).
Pin diametermmMeasured diameter of the gauge pin.

Method and formulas

  1. Pin centre above the sharp V apex = (D ÷ 2) ÷ sin(β ÷ 2), where β is the included angle.
  2. Depth of the sharp V = (W ÷ 2) ÷ tan(β ÷ 2).
  3. Pin top above the surface = (D ÷ 2)(1 + 1 ÷ sin(β ÷ 2)) − depth.
  4. Example: a 90° groove 10 mm wide with a 6 mm pin: the pin top stands 2.2426 mm above the surface.

Limitations

  • A rounded groove bottom does not affect the reading provided the pin touches only the flanks.
  • Edge breaks reduce the actual width but not the theoretical sharp-edge width used here.
  • Example values are illustrations. Replace them with values for your actual task.

Typical uses

  • Inspect V-grooves, vee blocks and seal grooves
  • Set a dial reading for groove depth
  • Choose a gauge pin size

Who it is for

  • Quality inspectors
  • Toolmakers
  • Metrology technicians

What you get

  • Pin top above the surface (negative = below)
  • Pin centre above the V apex
  • Depth of the sharp V
  • Contact height on the flanks

Interpreting the result

  • Choose a pin whose contact points sit well inside the flanks.

References

  • Machinery’s Handbook, 29th edition (Industrial Press, 2012), printed pp. 682–691. Topic reference; no source tables or recommended settings are reproduced.

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Open the V-Groove Measurement over a Pin calculator