What are the parts of a folding square?

29th February 2020


	What are the parts of a folding square?


	Shop for Folding Squares




			Folding square frame
			The frame of a folding square makes up the three sides of its triangular shape. Most frames have two sides of the same length and one longer side (isosceles triangle).

			Other folding square frames come with sides of three different lengths (scalene triangle).

			Folding square square (right angle)
			On each folding square two sides are joined to form a 90° angle (right angle).

			The right angle of a folding square can be used to check if a corner is square, or to mark a 90° angle on a workpiece.

			45° folding square angles
			A number of folding squares come with two 45°angles.

			These 45° angles can be marked onto a workpiece or can be used to create a mitre cut/joint.

			Mitre cuts are angled cuts, commonly at 45°. Mitre cuts are used to produce mitre joints. Mitre joints are when two parts are joined to form a corner.

			Folding square pivot pins
			A pivot pin is a small metal link that holds two pieces together and allows two parts to rotate around its axis.

			Pivot pins are located at specific points on folding square frames. They allow the frame to unfold and collapse as and when is needed.

			Folding square locking mechanism
			The locking mechanism is used to prevent the folding square from closing.

			The mechanism keeps the folding square locked in place, offering greater stability when being used. It prevents any movement from the frame while measuring, marking or simply checking angles.

			Folding square sliding mechanism
			The sliding mechanism is used on certain folding squares to enable the frame to lock in place while they are being used. 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 pushed, the stopper slides across the slot causing the pivot pins located in the frame to rotate, allowing it to fold into one length.


			Folding square stoppers
			The stoppers act as a lock when the tool is folded. The round knob is pushed into a groove and sits in place to keep the folding square closed. The arrow underneath the groove in the picture directs the user on which way to push the frame to fold the tool.

			Folding square ruler
			Some folding squares have a ruler, which is used to measure distances or to rule straight lines.

			Ruler increments Many rulers will have metric (centimetres) and imperial (inch) increments. The measuring range available on folding squares is 0-60 centimetres (0-24 inches).

			Some folding squares come without rulers. These are still the same, however, you are not able to measure work with these types of folding squares. If you are using this type of folding square then another measuring tool such as a measuring tape is required to take measurements.

			Folding square carry case
			A number of folding squares are supplied with a case, which can be used to carry and store the folding square.