T.O.

33K6-4-33-1

TECHNICAL MANUAL

CALIBRATION PROCEDURE

FOR

SURFACE PLATES

PLANEKATOR METHOD

This publication replaces T.O. 33K6-4-33-1 dated 30 May 2011.

Distribution Statement C - Distribution authorized to U. S. Government agencies and their contractors for
official use or for administrative or operational purposes only, 30 December 1989. Requests for this
document shall be referred to AFMETCAL, 813 Irving-Wick Dr W, Heath, OH 43056-1199.

Destruction Notice - For unclassified, limited documents, destroy by any method that will prevent
disclosure of the contents or reconstruction of the document.
Published under Authority of the Secretary of the Air Force

30 JANUARY 2013
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A USAF
 T.O. 33K6-4-33-1

SURFACE PLATES
PLANEKATOR METHOD

1 CALIBRATION DESCRIPTION:
Table 1.

Test Instrument (TI) Performance Test

Characteristics Specifications Method

Flatness
Maximum Elevation Range: See Appendix A Verified with a
Planekator or an
Accuracy: See Appendix A Electronic Height Gage

2 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Use Calibration Sub-

Noun Specifications Equipment Item

2.1 PLANEKATOR Range: 24 in Rahn Planekator Rahn Planekator

PLANEKATOR PLANEKATOR
Accuracy: 50 in TIR 24INCH 36IN
TAR is 2:1

2.2 ELECTRONIC Range: 0.0002 in Federal Specifications

HEIGHT GAGE EAS-1226
Accuracy: 10 in
TAR 2.5:1

2.3 SURFACE PLATE Range: 36  72 in Brown & Sharpe

701-157
Accuracy: N/A
2.4 LEVELING PLATE Range: N/A AFMETCAL *
8636110
Accuracy: N/A
2.5 REPEAT READING Range: N/A Starrett
GAGE 779
Accuracy: 20 in
TAR 2:1
2.6 ALCOHOL-ETHYL Range: N/A As Available
Accuracy: N/A
2.7 HAND CLEANER Range: N/A As Available
Accuracy: N/A

* Contact AFMETCAL if item is not available.

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3 PRELIMINARY OPERATIONS:

3.1 Review and become familiar with the entire procedure before beginning the Calibration Process.

WARNING

Alcohol is an eye and skin irritant. Use protective equipment (chemical splash
goggles and gloves) where potential of splash and skin contact may occur.
Failure to do so may result in injury. If eye contact should occur, flush well
with water and seek immediate medical attention. If not strictly observed, could
result in injury to, or death of, personnel or long term health hazards.

WARNING

Alcohol is a flammable liquid and may be ignited by heat, sparks, or flames.

Vapors may travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Alcohol burns with an
almost invisible flame. If not strictly observed, could result in injury to, or death
of, personnel or long term health hazards.

3.2 The TI and test equipment must be allowed to stabilize at calibration room temperature for at least 8 hours prior
to beginning Calibration Process.

3.3 Calibration area must not vary more than 2 °F in the four hours prior to and during the Calibration Process.
Annotate the Special block of the Certification Label, as applicable, with the following: TI Grade, Accuracy and
See Calibration Charts. If the TI is calibrated outside of the environment stated above, it must be calibrated to
Grade C Flatness Tolerance and it must include the following statement on the Calibration Chart: This calibration is
only valid for a temperature range of ## 6 °F. Where ## is the average temperature during calibration.

3.4 Clean the TI twice with Hand Cleaner, then once with Ethyl Alcohol prior to beginning the Calibration
Process. Wait 4 hours before beginning calibration. For small Surface Plates (18 inches and under) proceed to
para 4.2.

3.5 For TI dimensions 24 inches and over, mark the top surface of the TI with the perimeter lines 2 inches
from the edge. For all other TIs, mark the top surface of the TI with perimeter lines 1 inch from the edge.

3.6 If Planekator can reach the end points on the diagonal lines use the Preferred Method. Otherwise use the
Alternate Method.

3.7 When performing measurements: (1) Ensure the Planekator Dial Indicator measuring tip is oriented directly in
the center of the three feet on the bottom of Dial Indicator base, (2) Ensure the measurements are performed with
Dial Indicator measuring tip oriented under center of the Planekator.

3.8 If not already marked on the Planekator, make a scale marked in 1 inch increments. Use flatness corrections for
the Planekator at the location the measurement is being made. Example, if indicator reading is 0.000020 inch and
Straight Edge correction at the spot is –0.000010 inches, record the value as 0.000010 inch.

3.9 Ensure Planekator supports are placed at the 7 and 17 inch marks for the 24 inch Planekator and 9 and 27 for the
36 inch Planekator.

NOTE

To verify for repeatability of measurements: Whenever instructed to record

an indication that has previously been recorded, check the indication against
the previously recorded indication and ensure it does not deviate from that
indication by more than 40 in.

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3.10 UNIFORMITY VERIFICATION: ( For Large Surface Plates [Larger Than 24 x 24 in])

3.10.1 Place the Repeat Reading Gage along one of the long sides near the corner of the TI approximately two
inches from the edge. See Figure 1.
TI MFG LABEL (North)
REPEAT READING GAGE

1st POSITION
2nd POSITION

SURFACE PLATE

Figure 1.

3.10.2 Make a drawing on a TI Record Sheet similar to Figure 1 for purposes of recording Repeat Reading Gage
measurements. Write the TI serial number on the side of the TI Record Sheet corresponding to the TI nameplate
location. When recording measurements, keep the TI Record Sheet oriented in the same manner as the TI to
facilitate placing measurements in the correct location on the TI Record Sheet. After completing the Calibration
Process, use the TI Record Sheet to prepare a Uniformity Verification Chart.

3.10.3 Zero the Repeat Reading Gage.

3.10.4 Move Repeat Reading Gage approximately 5 inches trying to maintain the 2 inch spacing from the edge.
Record reading.

3.10.5 Repeat step 3.10.4 until Repeat Reading Gage is near other end of TI.

3.10.6 Move Repeat Reading Gage back to starting location and ensure it repeats within one division. If not repeat
entire line.

3.10.7 Move Repeat Reading Gage approximately 12 inches from this location remaining parallel to the long side of
TI. Repeat steps 3.10.4 through 3.10.6.

3.10.8 Repeat step 3.10.7 until the entire TI is measured.

4 CALIBRATION PROCESS:

NOTE

Unless otherwise specified, verify the results of each test and take corrective
action whenever the test requirement is not met, before proceeding.

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T.O. 33K6-4-33-1

4.1 FLATNESS CALIBRATION: (Preferred Method)

4.1.1 Mark the TI top surface as shown in Figure 1.

TI MFG LABEL (North)

4
D F A

8
5 1
TI

G X E
7

B 6
H C

Figure 2.

4.1.2 Make a drawing on a TI Record Sheet similar to Figure 1 for purposes of recording Planekator Dial Indicator
measurements. Write the TI serial number on the side of the TI Record Sheet corresponding to the TI nameplate
location. When recording measurements, keep the TI Record Sheet oriented in the same manner as the TI to
facilitate placing measurements in the correct location on the TI Record Sheet. After completing the Calibration
Process, use the TI Record Sheet to prepare a Calibration Chart.

4.1.3 Place the Planekator on line 1 with the 12 or 18 inch mark at point (X), whichever is applicable. Ensure the
center of the Planekator is directly over line 1.

4.1.4 Adjust Planekator supports and Dial Indicator for a level indication at points (A) and (B). Adjust the Dial
Indicator to a zero indication at point (X). Measure and record values obtained at every two inch mark.

4.1.5 Repeat steps 4.1.3 and 4.1.4 for line 2, using the corresponding end point values.

4.1.6 Place the Planekator on line 3 with the 12 or 18 inch mark at point (E), whichever is applicable. Ensure the
center of the Planekator is directly over line 3. Adjust Planekator supports and Dial Indicator such that points (A)
and (C) indicate the values obtained in steps 4.1.4 and 4.1.5 for each point.

NOTE

Whenever instructed to level to previously known indicated values, ensure it

does not deviate from that indication by more than 40 in.

4.1.7 Measure and record indications of the Planekator at every two inch mark.

4.1.8 Repeat steps 4.1.6 and 4.1.7 for lines 4, 5, and 6 using the corresponding end point values.

4.1.9 Place the Planekator on line 7 with the 12 or 18 inch mark at TI point (X), whichever is applicable. Ensure
the center of the Planekator is directly over line 7. Adjust Planekator supports and Dial Indicator such that points
(E) and (G) indicate values obtained in steps 4.1.7 and 4.1.8 for each point.

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 T.O. 33K6-4-33-1

4.1.10 Measure and record indications of the Planekator at every two inches.

4.1.11 Repeat steps 4.1.9 and 4.1.10 for line 8, using the corresponding end point values.

4.1.12 The value recorded at (X) for lines 7 and 8 must be within 40 in of zero.

4.1.13 All points recorded on the Record Sheet must not exceed the corresponding values listed in the
corresponding Accuracy Column of Table A-1 or A-2 whichever is applicable, in Appendix A.

4.1.14 Calibration complete. Secure equipment.

4.1.15 Annotate and attach a Certification Label as per step 3.3.

4.1A FLATNESS CALIBRATION: (Alternate Method)

4.1A.1 Mark the top surface as shown in Figure 1A.

TI MFG LABEL (North)

4
D F J A

2
8
K

7 9
G X E
5 3

1
L

B H 6 M C

Figure 1A.

4.1A.2 Make a drawing on a TI Record Sheet similar to Figure 1A for purposes of recording Planekator Dial
Indicator measurements. Write the TI serial number on the side of the TI Record Sheet corresponding to the TI
nameplate location. When recording measurements, keep the TI Record Sheet oriented in the same manner as the TI
to facilitate placing measurements in the correct location on the TI Record Sheet. After completing the Calibration
Process, use the TI Record Sheet to prepare a Calibration Chart.

4.1A.3 Place the Planekator on line 1 with the 12 or 18 inch mark at point (X), whichever is applicable. Ensure the
center of the Planekator is directly over line 1.

4.1A.4 Adjust Planekator supports and Dial Indicator for a level indication at Planekator end points. Adjust the
Dial Indicator to a zero indication at point (X). Measure and record values obtained at every two inch mark.

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T.O. 33K6-4-33-1

Ref point 2
LINE 4
LINE
2 TI Ref point 1
X

X
N N
TIO ITIO
OSI N
TIO 3rd PO
S
1 st P OSI
nd P
LINE 5

LINE 3
LINE 7 2

Ref point 0

LINE 9
LINE 8
PLANEKATOR
E1
L IN
LINE 6

EXAMPLE: 4 X 6 Foot TI
using a 36 inch Planekator

Note: The Planekator movement is shown across the top of the TI in the figure.
Position Planekator such that the center is directly over the center of TI,
this will be the 1st Position. Adjust the Planekator height so that the Dial
Indicator indicates the same value for both ends of the Planekator. The 2nd
Position displays the Planekator over at least two known reference points
separated by a distance of 1/2 the total length of the Planekator. Adjust the
Planekator height so that the Dial Indicator indicates these known values.

Figure 2A.

4.1A.5 Repeat steps 4.1A.3 and 4.1A.4 for lines 2, 7, and 8.

4.1A.6 Place the Planekator on line 3, adjust Planekator supports and Dial Indicator such that points (A) and (C) or
points (A) and (E), whichever is applicable, indicate the values obtained in steps 4.1A.4 and 4.1A.5 for each point.
Use method shown in Figure 3A.

NOTE

Whenever instructed to level to previously known indicated values, ensure it

does not deviate from that indication by more than 40 in.

4.1A.7 Measure and record indications of the Planekator at every two inch mark.

4.1A.8 Repeat steps 4.1A.6 and 4.1A.7 for line 5, using the corresponding values for points (D) and (B) or
(D) and (G) whichever is applicable.

NOTE

If the Planekator can reach points (A) and (F) proceed to step 4.1A.10.

4.1A.9 Place the Planekator on line 9, approximately in the middle of lines AF and CH. Adjust Planekator
supports, if necessary to obtain readings at points (K) and (L). Adjust the Dial Indicator such that points (K) and (L)
indicate the values obtained in steps 4.1A.4 and 4.1A.5 for each point. Record values at locations (J) and (M).

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 T.O. 33K6-4-33-1

TI MFG LABEL (North)

PLANEKATOR

4
D F J A

1st POSITION
8
K

7 9
G X E
3

2nd POSITION
5

1 L

B H 6
M C

NOTE: Use method as described in Figure 2A.

Figure 3A.

4.1A.10 Place the Planekator on line 4, adjust Planekator supports and Dial Indicator such that points (A) and (J) or
(A) and (F) whichever is applicable, indicate the values obtained in steps 4.1A.4 and 4.1A.9 for each point. Use
method shown in Figure 2A.

4.1A.11 Measure and record indications of the Planekator at every two inches.

4.1A.12 Repeat steps 4.1A.10 and 4.1A.11 for line 6, using the corresponding values for points (C) and (M) or
(C) and (H) whichever is applicable.

4.1A.13 All points recorded on the Record Sheet must not exceed the corresponding values listed in the
corresponding Accuracy Column of Table A-1 or A-2 whichever is applicable, in Appendix A.

4.1A.14 Calibration complete. Secure equipment.

4.1A.15 Annotate and attach a Certification Label as per step 3.3.

4.2 FLATNESS CALIBRATION: (For Small Surface Plates [18 inches and smaller])

4.2.1 Using the Repeat Reading Gage, locate an area on the Surface Plate where Flatness is within 40 in.

4.2.2 Place the Leveling Plate on the Surface Plate. Place the TI on the top of the Leveling Plate.

4.2.3 Place the Electronic Height Gage gagehead on top of the TI near one corner. Level both ends of a diagonal
line near the corners of the TI to within 40 in or ¼ the Flatness Accuracy listed in Appendix A, whichever is
greater. Repeat for the other diagonal. The two diagonal lines will most likely have different numbers in the
corners. For Example: Line 1 corner values are 0 and +10 in and Line 2 corner values are -50 to -70 in.

4.2.4 Find the lowest area of the TI and zero the Electronic Height Gage. Scan the entire surface of the TI
excluding roundoff of edges and record the highest indication. This indication will be the Flatness deviation of
the TI and must be within the value listed in Appendix A for the corresponding size and grade of the TI.

4.2.5 Calibration complete. Secure equipment.

4.2.6 Annotate and attach a Certification Label as per step 3.3.

CALIBRATION PERFORMANCE TABLE

SEE APPENDIX A

7/(8 Blank)
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APPENDIX A

Table A-1.

Grade Accuracies for Common Size Granite TIs

Grade A Grade B Grade C

Width (in) Length (in) Accuracy (in) * Accuracy (in) * Accuracy (in) *

12 12 0.000100 0.000200 0.000400

12 18 0.000100 0.000200 0.000400

18 18 0.000100 0.000200 0.000400

18 24 0.000150 0.000300 0.000600

20 30 0.000200 0.000400 0.000800

24 24 0.000150 0.000300 0.000600

24 36 0.000200 0.000400 0.000800

24 48 0.000300 0.000500 0.001200

24 60 0.000400 0.000700 0.001600

30 30 0.000200 0.000400 0.000800

30 36 0.000250 0.000500 0.001000

30 48 0.000350 0.000700 0.001400

30 60 0.000450 0.000900 0.001800

36 36 0.000300 0.000600 0.001200

36 48 0.000400 0.000800 0.001600

36 60 0.000500 0.001000 0.002000

36 72 0.000600 0.001200 0.002400

48 48 0.000400 0.000800 0.001600

48 60 0.000600 0.001200 0.002400

48 72 0.000700 0.001400 0.002800

* If the Flatness Accuracy for the TI being calibrated is not listed, determine the accuracy using the following
formula.

Overall Flatness Accuracy (in) = 40 + D/25

Where: D = diagonal or diameter of TI in inches

A-1
T.O. 33K6-4-33-1

APPENDIX A (Cont.)

Table A-2.

Grade Accuracies for Cast Iron TIs

Flatness
Grade Accuracy (in)

A 0.000150

B 0.000225

C 0.000450

E 0.000150

A-2