Surface Plate and Its Uses 

Surface Plate 

A surface plate’s principal function is to provide a level and flat platform against which things can be measured. Flatness, parallelism, and perpendicularity are all checked with the plate and various measurement tools like height gauges, dial indicators, and optical comparators.

Surface plates see widespread application in manufacturing, and are especially important in the creation of precision parts like those used in the aerospace and automotive industries. They find additional applications in the fields of science and technology where highly accurate measurements are required.

Surface plates have multiple applications, including but not limited to usage as measuring instruments, workholding fixtures for machining, and assembly. For machining or assembly purposes, they can be used to mount parts on a flat, level surface.

In general, a surface plate can be put to the following uses:

• Serving as a level base from which to gauge the size of things
• Making sure things are level, parallel, and perpendicular
• Functioning as a work-holding fixture in the context of manufacturing and assembly.

Video 01: What is a Surface Plate? Uses of Surface Plate | Metrology |