Sine-Bar Calculator

Calculate angle/height relationships for precision sine bar setups used in layout tables and milling machine vises.

The Sine-Bar is used to setup angles on a Layout Table or in a Milling Machine Vice. This is done by using a bar with two pins mounted at an accurate predetermined distance. One end is raised to a measured height by using gauge blocks or an adjustable parallel.

Enter the sine-bar length (default: 5 inches or 100 millimeters) and either the angle or the height. The calculator will solve for the missing value and display a visual representation.

INPUTS

Sine-Bar Length (L)

Angle (θ)

Height (H)

Units

Angle Format

DIAGRAM

Enter sine-bar length and either angle or height to see diagram

CALCULATED VALUES

⚠ Enter sine-bar length and either angle or height

FORMULAS & USAGE

Basic Relationship: sin(θ) = H / L

Calculate Height: H = L × sin(θ)

Calculate Angle: θ = asin(H / L)

Constraints:

Sine-bar length (L) must be positive
Height (H) must be between 0 and L
Angle (θ) must be between 0° and 90°

Typical Usage: A 5-inch sine bar raised 2.5 inches creates a 30° angle. Use precision gauge blocks to stack the exact height needed under one end of the sine bar.