How accurate is a length measuring device?

How accurate is a length measuring device?
As an entrepreneur, it goes without saying that the length measuring device you use must be able to measure accurately. But how accurate are these measurements?  If you need a cable that is 10 metres long, then you obviously want the length measuring device to actually measure 10 metres. You do not want to end up with left-over cable or a cable that is too short, and when you deliver your cables to a customer, you actually want to deliver the required length. Venrooy’s measuring devices all measure with an accuracy of 0.5%. So if you are measuring a 10-metre cable, the actual length will not deviate by more than 5 centimetres, provided that the measuring process is carried out properly. Measurements may, however, be less accurate for various reasons. The main three are:
  • Slipping of the cable
  • The cable is not straight as it is fed through the device
  • Contamination of the measuring wheel

Slipping of the cable

If you pull the cable through the measuring device too quickly, the cable may slip on the measuring wheel. This will result in an inaccurate measurement. Venrooy recommends a maximum speed of 60 metres per minute to achieve an accurate measurement. If a cable is wet or greasy, it may also slip and produce an inaccurate measurement.

The cable is not straight as it is fed through the device

To make sure you end up with accurate measurements, it is important that the cable is straight – so not at an angle – as you feed it into the device. This is the only way for the cable to make proper contact with the measuring wheel and for the counter to measure the right length. Download length measuring device guide

Contamination of the measuring wheel

When measuring greasy cables – e.g. steel cables – grease accumulates on the measuring wheel. Over time, this means that the circumference of the measuring wheel increases slightly and the measurement is no longer accurate. Even soft rubber from electrical cables gets left behind on the measuring wheel, resulting in the same effect – the circumference of the wheel will gradually increase. It is therefore important that you clean the measuring wheel regularly. Dirt and grease on the measuring wheel can be removed using a steel brush. If the measuring device is fitted with a rubber/Vulkollan measuring wheel, it is best to clean the wheel with a wet cloth. If you have a maintenance contract with Venrooy, we will regularly (often annually) clean the measuring wheels for you.

Type and configuration of the device

The type of device you are using may also play a role in the accuracy of the measurement. If the device has the measuring wheel at the top, the wheel always rests on the cable and thus makes continuous contact. If the measuring wheel is at the bottom, it is possible that the cable – due to too high a speed or the cable not being fed in properly, i.e. straight – occasionally makes no contact with the wheel. It is also important that the device is configured properly. The guide rollers on the input and output sides are adjustable. Make sure that they are set in such a way that there is minimal slack in the cable when it is being fed through.

Selection tool

Want to find out which length measuring device is suitable for your company? Then download the handy length measuring device selection tool. This will help you to decide which device is best for you in three simple steps. You can also get in touch with us to discuss the possibilities, free of obligations. Download length measuring device guide