Depth gauges, either industrial depth gauges or underwater depth gauges, measure the depth from a reference level. An industrial depth gauge measures the depth of holes, cavities and other component features. On the other hand, an underwater depth gauge measures the depth of the water at a particular location.

Apart from these major applications, you can use a depth gauge in other non-industrial applications. For instance, a tire tread depth gauge helps in measuring the tire wear.

Like other gauges, depth gauges come in different configurations and styles. You can buy mechanical depth gauges or electronic depth gauges. You can also select analog (or dial) depth gauges or digital depth gauges.

Some important parameters you must consider before purchasing a depth gauge are:

1. Range of depth to be measured
2. Type of depth gauges
3. Required accuracy and sensitivity of the depth gauge
4. Requirement of additional features such as a gauge stand or a dust proof enclosure

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy an industrial gauge from a reputable depth gauges manufacturer

Once you identify your requirements, check out industrial depth gauges available in the market. From a range of available products, you can buy a thread depth gauge, a flush-pin depth gauge, a depth rule, a combination depth gauge or a vernier depth gauge.

I recommend: Starrett, a reputable manufacturer of precision tools and measuring devices, supplies depth gauges that can measure depth up to 300 mm. Mitutoyo is another gauge manufacturer that provides depth gauges with dial and digital displays. If you want to measure depths of slots and recesses, check out depth gauges offered by Mahr.

Buy underwater depth gauges

An underwater depth gauge generally operates on modern measurement techniques such as ultrasonic or sonar technique. These depth gauges come in different models such as a marine depth gauge and a boat depth gauge.

I recommend: You can buy a digital marine depth gauge at Uniden, a reputable manufacturer of wireless electronic products. If you need a boat depth gauge, check out products offered by Humminbird, a manufacturer of fishing equipment.

Buy depth gauges from depth gauge distributors or retailers

You can compare different depth gauges based on their features and prices at distributors or retailers' websites.

I recommend: You can buy a tread depth gauge at GEMPLER'S, a division of Lab Safety Supply. Stark Industrial offers depth gauges from reputable gauge manufacturers such as Mitutoyo and Mahr. Additionally, you can buy a depth gauge with dial or digital indicator at measureNOW, a retailer of measuring instruments. Reid Supply is another industrial retailer that offers depth gauges.

Calibrate your depth gauges periodically

As a depth gauge is a measurement and inspection tool, calibrate depth gauges with the help of experts of calibration services.

I recommend: Gagemaker, a reputable gauge manufacturer, offers calibration and repair services for its own as well as other manufacturers’ gauges. Davis Calibration is a calibration service provider that provides depth gauge calibration.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Read manufacturers' instructions about storing and handling of depth gauges, as improper handling and storing hampers accuracy of the gauge.
• •  Keep an inventory of batteries and power sources for digital depth gauges.