Describe the function and operation of any one of the following: Surface Plate, Tailstock, Strip Heater. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question (i) - 200

A Surface Plate is used as a datum surface for marking out and checking the flatness of other surfaces. The top surface is perfectly flat and accurately finished, ensuring that the sides are also accurately finished and are at right angles to each other.

The surface plate is often made from high-quality, close-grained cast iron, which minimizes warping and maintains rigidity. It typically features rounded edges to prevent chipping and distortion. This device is fundamental in ensuring precision in engineering and manufacturing tasks, allowing for accurate measurement and alignment.

In educational settings, such as the engineering workshop, a surface plate is commonly used in conjunction with angle plates to facilitate measurements and checks at varying heights.