Surface Plate Resurfacing, Lapping and Repair
When a surface plate has worn out of tolerance, resurfacing usually costs far less than replacing it. AC Metrology laps granite surface plates and tables back to their required grade, restoring both flatness and appearance, on-site across the UK and Ireland. Chips can be repaired on request, and every resurfaced plate is recalibrated and issued with a certificate.
Signs a surface plate needs resurfacing
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It has failed calibration, or is close to the limit for its grade
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Local wear in the areas used most, often shown up by repeat reading checks
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Chips, scratches or damage on the working surface
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Inconsistent results from measurements taken in different areas of the plate
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The plate has been moved, dropped or poorly supported
How we resurface a granite surface plate
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Measure. We survey the plate first to find where it’s worn and by how much.
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Repair damage (on request). Chips and damaged areas can be repaired so they don’t interfere with the working surface, at extra cost.
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Lap. The working surface is lapped by hand, area by area, checking as we go, until it’s back within the tolerance for its grade.
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Recalibrate. The plate is calibrated to BS 817:2008, and you receive a certificate.
How long resurfacing takes
It depends on the size of the plate and how far out of grade it is. Most standard-size tables that aren’t too far out take a day, or sometimes two, on site.
Resurfacing cast iron surface plates
Cast iron surface plates can be resurfaced too, by grinding or lapping depending on their size.
Repair or replace?
Most worn granite plates can be resurfaced to their original grade, as long as the plate is structurally sound. Replacement makes more sense if the plate is cracked, badly damaged or needs to be a different size. We’ll tell you which is the better option once we’ve measured it, and can supply a new granite surface plate if needed.
If a plate keeps drifting because its stand supports it in the wrong places, we may recommend a replacement stand with support points better placed for stability.
On-site resurfacing across the UK and Ireland
Large plates and installed tables are resurfaced where they stand, so there’s no need to move them. We aim to be on site within a week of your enquiry. To keep plates in tolerance between visits, a service contract schedules regular checks.
Surface plate resurfacing FAQs
Can a chipped granite surface plate be repaired?
Yes, in most cases. Chips can be repaired on request, at extra cost, and the surrounding area is lapped so the working surface stays usable. If the damage is severe or the plate is cracked, replacement may be the better option.
Can surface plates be resurfaced on site?
Yes. We resurface granite surface plates and tables on site across the UK and Ireland, so large and installed plates don’t need moving.
How long does it take to resurface a surface plate?
It depends on the plate’s size and how far out of grade it is. Most standard-size tables that aren’t too far out take a day, or sometimes two, on site.
Can cast iron surface plates be resurfaced?
Yes. Cast iron surface plates can be resurfaced by grinding or lapping, depending on their size.
Will my plate be back to its original grade after resurfacing?
In most cases, yes. A structurally sound granite plate can usually be lapped back within the tolerance for its BS 817:2008 grade. We measure the plate first and tell you what’s achievable before we start.