Maintenance of InspectionSurface Plate:

1.A surface plate is a asurface plate is a datum and should be protected against damage. The top shouldbe frequently wiped clean from dust and other particles. When measurements arebeing made, a cloth should be spread on the surface plate on which small toolsand gauges can be placed when not in use. When the surface plate is not in usethe top should always be kept covered.

2. A Grade 0 or Grade 1surface plate should be placed in a location where there is a circulation ofair which is under constant temperature control. The plate should be in alocation away from direct sunlight and sources of draughts which could cause avertical gradient of temperature such that the top and underside of the surfaceplate are at different temperatures.

3.Stands should be located ona stable foundation. the surface plate should be supported firmly and levelled.

4.Care should be taken that,wherever possible, the load on a surface plate is distributed over the workingsurface.

5. Use should be made of thefull available area of the working surface and not concentrated on any onearea.a common form of damage to cast iron surface plates is burrs on theworking surface. the excess metal may be stoned away by attention confined tothe burr. this operation should be followed by thorough cleaning with abrasivedust. if the surface plate is not required for some days, the surface should becoated with a corrosion preventive, such as petroleum jelly. rusting is a signof neglect and misuse. its effects can be reduced by frequently wiping the topwhen in use and by occasionally gently rubbing with another surface plate.

6.Users are advised to takeadvantage of the specialized services of surface plate manufacturers to havesurface plates reconditioned.