What tool is typically used to measure the thickness of aircraft sheet metal?

The most suitable tool for measuring the thickness of aircraft sheet metal is a micrometer or caliper. These precision measuring instruments are specifically designed for accurate measurement of small dimensions, such as the thickness of metal sheets, down to fractions of a millimeter or thousandths of an inch.

A micrometer is particularly effective due to its ability to provide precise measurements by using a calibrated screw mechanism. Calipers, whether digital or manual, can also effectively measure thickness through their sliding scale and depth gauge features, making them versatile for various types of measurements in aircraft maintenance and repairs.

In contrast, while a laser measurement device offers advanced technology for measuring distances, it is not specifically designed for thickness measurements of thin materials like sheet metal. A ruler or tape measure, while useful for larger, more general measurements, lacks the precision required for measuring small thicknesses accurately. Similarly, while a digital gauge can be a useful tool in various contexts, without the precision and specific design of a micrometer or caliper, it may not be the most reliable choice for measuring the thin dimensions of aircraft sheet metal.