Measuring for a ring takes a tape, a caliper and about five minutes, and it prevents the most common cause of a remake: a ring cut to a nominal size instead of the product in front of you. There are three measurements and one decision about fit, and the decision is the part people skip.
The three measurements
Diameter: measure across the product at two points at right angles, and repeat at a third point if the product looks oval. Record the largest and the smallest.
Ring width: decide the radial band you want, which is a coverage decision rather than a measurement of the product.
Board thickness: take the product weight and the handling route, not a caliper reading of the product.
Specification at a glance
The table is the sheet to fill in before sending an enquiry.
| Step | Measure | Record |
|---|
| 1 | Diameter across, at 90 degrees | Largest and smallest |
| 2 | Diameter at a third point | Ovality, if any |
| 3 | Desired ring width | Radial band in mm |
| 4 | Product weight | For board choice |
| 5 | Fit method | Push, loose, strap or bag |
| 6 | Wrap or coating | Added to the diameter |
The decision people skip: fit
State whether the ring should push on by hand, sit loose and be held by the strap, or be held by a wrap or bag. Each of those changes the inner diameter by a small but decisive amount.
Also state whether the ring goes on over a wrap or a coating. A ring measured on a bare coil will not fit over the coil plus film.
What to photograph
One photo of the product standing as it will be packed, one of the edge close up, and one of the existing pack if there is one. Those three answer most of the questions that would otherwise become an email exchange.
Where the product is already damaged, photograph the damage. It tells the supplier which contact is failing, and that is worth more than any dimension.
Questions buyers ask before ordering
Do I measure inside or outside diameter?
The product outside diameter, since the ring fits over it.
How many readings do I need?
Two at right angles minimum, three if the product may be oval.
What if I do not know the fit I want?
Say push fit or loose and strap held; the clearance follows from that.
Do I add the wrap thickness?
Yes, if the ring goes on over a wrap.
Is a photo useful?
Yes, especially of the edge and of any existing damage.
Share the drawing or a product sample with mona@hengnicepacking.com and we will confirm feasibility before quoting.
