The primary difference between "gauge" and "thickness" lies in their measurement approach. "Thickness" refers to the direct, absolute measurement of a material's width between two surfaces, expressed in standard units like millimeters or inches. "Gauge," on the other hand, is a relative scale used primarily in metal and wire industries to standardize thickness, where a lower gauge number typically represents a thicker material.
Thickness: Absolute Measurement
Thickness is the direct measurement of a material’s width. It is a precise value obtained using measurement technologies such as:
- Contact Gauges (VBK, VBM Series) – These systems use transducers to physically measure thickness by contacting the material .
- Laser Gauges (VTLG Series) – A non-contact method using laser triangulation to calculate thickness .
- X-ray Measurement – Uses radiation to determine thickness, particularly in coated or multilayer materials.
Gauge: Relative Measurement System
Gauge numbers are industry-standardized scales based on material type. For example, in sheet metal:
- 18 gauge steel = 1.27 mm (0.050”)
- 24 gauge steel = 0.61 mm (0.024”)
However, gauge values differ by material (e.g., steel, aluminum, wire), making conversion necessary.
Which Should You Use?
- Engineering and quality control prefer absolute thickness (in mm/inches) for accuracy.
- Manufacturing and supply chains use gauge values for categorization and standardization.
For precision thickness measurement solutions, Vollmer’s VBM, VBK, and VTLG systems ensure accurate, real-time thickness evaluation. Contact Vollmer for tailored measurement solutions.
