Try Square – Parts, Uses and Importance in Workshop Practice

Try Square – Parts, Uses and Importance in Workshop Practice

A try square is one of the most important measuring and marking tools used in mechanical workshops and fitting shops. It is primarily used to check the accuracy of right angles (90 degrees) and to mark straight lines on metal, wood, or other materials. Because of its precision and simple design, the try square is considered a fundamental tool in engineering and workshop practice.

Students in technical trades such as Fitter, Machinist, Carpenter, and Mechanical Engineering are trained to use the try square during their basic workshop training. Accurate measurement and marking are essential in manufacturing and fabrication processes, and the try square plays an important role in ensuring dimensional accuracy.

What is a Try Square?

A try square is a hand tool used to check whether a surface or edge is perfectly perpendicular (90 degrees) to another surface. It can also be used to mark straight lines across a workpiece.

The tool consists of two main parts: a blade and a stock. These parts are fixed together at a right angle. When the stock is placed against the reference edge of the workpiece, the blade forms a perfect 90-degree angle for checking or marking purposes.

Main Parts of a Try Square

A try square has a simple construction but consists of several important parts that ensure accuracy and durability.

1. Blade

The blade is the thin and straight metal part of the try square. It is usually made of hardened steel to maintain accuracy and resist wear. The blade is used for marking and checking the perpendicularity of surfaces.

2. Stock

The stock is the thicker part of the tool that acts as a handle. It is generally made from steel, cast iron, or wood. The stock provides support and ensures that the blade remains perfectly perpendicular to it.

3. Rivets

Rivets are used to join the blade and stock together securely. They maintain the rigid connection between the two parts and ensure that the angle remains accurate.

Working Principle of a Try Square

The try square works on the principle of a fixed right angle. When the stock of the try square is placed firmly against the reference surface of a workpiece, the blade automatically forms a 90-degree angle with that surface.

If the blade lies perfectly along the edge being checked, the surface is square. If there is a gap between the blade and the workpiece, it indicates that the surface is not perfectly perpendicular.

This simple principle allows the try square to be used as an effective tool for checking accuracy in machining and fabrication work.

Uses of a Try Square

The try square is widely used in workshops for several measurement and marking operations.

• Checking the squareness of surfaces
• Marking straight lines on workpieces
• Inspecting machined parts
• Ensuring accurate alignment of components
• Verifying the accuracy of machine setups

Because of these uses, the try square is an essential tool in precision engineering work.

Procedure for Checking Squareness

To check the squareness of a workpiece using a try square, the following steps are usually followed:

1. Place the stock of the try square firmly against the reference edge.
2. Bring the blade into contact with the surface being checked.
3. Observe if there is any gap between the blade and the surface.
4. If no gap is visible, the surface is perfectly square.
5. If a gap exists, the surface requires correction.

This procedure helps ensure accurate machining and fitting operations in workshop practice.

Advantages of Using a Try Square

The try square offers several advantages in workshop measurement and marking operations.

• Provides accurate 90-degree measurement
• Simple and easy to use
• Durable and reliable tool
• Essential for precision machining work
• Helps improve quality of finished products

These advantages make the try square an indispensable tool in engineering workshops.

Safety Precautions While Using a Try Square

Although the try square is a simple measuring tool, certain precautions should be followed to maintain accuracy and safety.

• Avoid dropping the tool.
• Keep the blade clean and free from rust.
• Do not use excessive force while marking lines.
• Store the tool properly after use.

Proper handling helps maintain the precision of the tool for a long time.

Maintenance of Try Square

Regular maintenance is important to preserve the accuracy of measuring tools.

• Clean the tool after use.
• Apply light oil to prevent rust.
• Store the tool in a protective case.
• Periodically check its accuracy.

Proper maintenance ensures reliable performance in workshop operations.

Importance of Try Square in Workshop Training

In technical training institutes such as ITI, students learn how to use the try square during basic workshop practice. Accurate measurement and marking are essential skills in mechanical and manufacturing work.

By learning how to use the try square properly, students develop precision and attention to detail, which are important qualities for skilled technicians and engineers.

Conclusion

The try square is a simple yet highly important measuring tool used in mechanical workshops and engineering industries. It is mainly used for checking right angles and marking accurate lines on workpieces.

Understanding the parts, working principle, and correct usage of a try square is essential for students and professionals in technical fields. With proper handling and maintenance, this tool provides accurate measurements and supports precision engineering work.