What parts does a folding square consist of?
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Folding square frame | ||
The frame of the folding square is made up of three sides of its triangular shape. Most frames have two equal length sides and one longer side (an isosceles triangle). | ||
Other folding square frames have sides of three different lengths (scalene triangle). | ||
Folding square square (right angle) | ||
On each folding square, two sides join to form a 90° angle (right angle). | ||
The right angle of a folding square can be used to check if an angle is right, or to mark a 90° angle on a workpiece. | ||
Folding square corners 45° | ||
Some folding squares have two 45° angles. | ||
These 45° angles can be applied to the workpiece or used to create a bevel cut/joint. | ||
Miter cuts are cuts at an angle, usually at a 45° angle. Corner cuts are used to make corner joints. Corner joints are the connection of two parts into a corner. | ||
Folding square hinge pins | ||
A pivot pin is a small metal link that holds two pieces together and allows the two pieces to rotate around their axis. | ||
Hinge pins are located at specific points on the folding square frames. They allow the frame to unfold and fold as needed. | ||
Folding square locking mechanism | ||
A locking mechanism is used to prevent the folding square from closing. | ||
The mechanism holds the folding square in place, providing more stability in use. It prevents any movement of the frame when measuring, marking or simply checking angles. | ||
Folding square sliding mechanism | ||
A sliding mechanism is used on some folding squares to allow the frame to lock into place while they are in use. When the sliding mechanism is unlocked, it causes the frame to collapse. It consists of a stopper, a locking groove and a slot. | ||
When the side containing the stopper is pressed, the stopper slides over the slot, causing the pivot pins located in the frame to rotate, allowing it to be folded into one length. | ||
Folding square stoppers | ||
The stops act like a lock when the tool is folded. The round handle fits into the groove and stays in place, keeping the folding square closed. The arrow below the groove in the image tells the user which way to press the frame to fold the tool. | ||
Folding square ruler | ||
Some folding squares have a ruler that is used to measure distances or straight line rulers. | ||
Ruler stepsMany rulers will have metric (centimeters) and imperial (inch) increments. The measurement range available for folding squares is 0–60 centimeters (0–24 inches). | ||
Some folding squares come without rulers. It's all the same, however you can't measure performance with these types of folding squares. If you are using this type of folding square, you will need another measuring tool, such as a measuring tape, to take measurements. | ||
Foldable square carrying case | ||
The range of folding squares comes with a case that can be used to carry and store the folding square. |