Understanding Surface Plate Calibration
What is a surface plate?
Surface plates provide a flat plane used as a horizontal reference point for your dimensional measurements. They serve as a foundational base for inspection, toolmaking, gauging, spotting, marking, and layout tasks. Common materials for surface plates include granite, metal, cast iron, and glass. Surface plates are critical in many industries maintaining in quality control.
Is Calibration Necessary?
Depending on the industry and environment the surface plates are being used, surface plates should be calibrated regularly—ideally every six months, though once or twice a year is the minimum. Calibration provides certainty in knowing precisely the flatness level of the surface plate. An uneven surface will impact the functionality of the whole plate causing error in measurements and the passing of defected parts in manufacturing.