Surface plates may seem no different than any other working surfaces, but they are actually a precision instrument. Despite granite’s toughness and durability, continual use will ultimately create wear spots on the surface. These seemingly tiny surface variations can cause distortions in measurements and ultimately affect product quality. In the last 50+ years of business, UNPARALLELED has sold and calibrated numerous surface plates. Although wear is unavoidable, our experience has taught us a great deal about how proper care and maintenance can extend your surface plate’s life and accuracy.
TOP 10 TIPS FOR SURFACE PLATE MAINTENANCE
1. PLATE ROTATION
The easiest way to increase the life of your surface plate is to periodically rotate your plate’s orientation. Regularly rotating your work area slows the formation of wear spots.
2. AVOID DUST
Cover your surface plate when it’s not in use. Dust works as an abrasive material and can speed up surface wear.
3. KEEP IT CLEAN:
To avoid excess build-up of grease and other debris, clean surface plate before and after work is performed.
4. CHOOSE THE RIGHT CLEANER:
Avoid water-based solutions as Granite tends to absorb water. Acetone and alcohol-based cleaners will give the best results but cause a cooling effect on the plate.
5. DON’T OVER TIGHTEN HOLD-DOWN BOLTS:
Even though the bolts are on the underside, over-tightening bolts can add unneeded stress to your surface plate. Check with your plate manufacturer for the correct hold-down bolt torque limits.
6. CHECK FOR SCRATCHES AND NICKS
Check the plate for scratches and nicks regularly. Burrs will often be present around nicks creating additional uneven surfaces. Remove burrs using a silicon carbide stone.
7. AVOID OVERLOAD
Make sure to distribute all weight applied evenly and over a large surface. Don’t apply more pressure or weight on your plate than necessary.
8. SURFACE PLATES ARE INSTRUMENTS, NOT TABLES
Only use surface plates for their intended purpose. Never place food or drinks on a surface plate. The acid present in many foods and drinks can cause small holes to form on the surface.
9. MAINTAIN CONSTANT ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
To avoid excessive expansion and contraction of the plate, humidity and temperature should be held constant around the plate. Keep plates out of direct sunlight as this can cause quick and uneven heating.
10. KEEP A REGULAR CALIBRATION SCHEDULE
Depending on the workload, surface plates should be calibrated every six months to three years. To determine what calibration schedule is best for you, regularly test your plate with a repeat-o-meter to check how quickly your plate deviates outside of accepted tolerances.
Although following these steps will help increase the life and usability of your surface plate, all surface plates will eventually suffer wear from everyday use. Regular calibration and the occasional resurfacing are the only ways to ensure a truly flat and level surface. We suggest a calibration interval of one-year or whichever noticeable wear is present. Our state-of-the-art lab is fully equipped to provide comprehensive ISO17025 accredited calibration, repair, and sales for virtually any type of surface plate.
