How should a cast iron surface plate be stored and protected when not in use for an extended period?

The core objectives of long-term storage and protection for cast iron surface plates (platforms) are to prevent deformation, avoid rusting, and maintain precision. Please follow the following systematic steps and key points: First, storage environment requirements: Indoor storage: It must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated indoor warehouse. Open storage is strictly prohibited.

Stable temperature and humidity: Avoid drastic temperature fluctuations and humid environments. It is best to keep the relative humidity below 50%-60%. A thermometer and hygrometer can be equipped for monitoring, and a dehumidifier can be used when necessary.

Keep away from vibration sources: The storage location should be kept away from continuous vibration sources such as large equipment, stamping machines, and railways to prevent micro-vibration-induced stress changes or accuracy loss.

Solid foundation: The ground should be flat and solid, with sufficient load-bearing capacity.

Secondly, the storage posture and support (the most crucial aspect to prevent deformation) must be stored according to the designed support points!

Find the support mark: The back or side of a qualified cast iron surface plate will be marked with "support point" or "installation point" (usually following the Avery point principle or the manufacturer's marked point).

Correct support: For large platforms (>2 meters), it is necessary to use sizing blocks, adjustment pads, or dedicated supports to precisely support the platform at the marked support points. Ensure that each support point is evenly stressed and the platform is in a natural horizontal state (which can be checked using a level meter).

Small and medium-sized platforms: They should also be supported at the designed fulcrum. It is absolutely prohibited to support them only at both ends or in the middle, as this will lead to deflection deformation caused by their own weight.

Avoid stacking: Store items flat and individually as much as possible. If stacking is necessary, ensure that: wooden blocks or specialized supports of sufficient strength are used between layers, and the blocks must be aligned both vertically and with the support points of the lower platform.

The number of stacked layers should not be excessive to prevent the bottom platform from being overloaded and deformed.

III. Cleaning and Rust Prevention (Rust Prevention is a Long-term Task) Thorough Cleaning: Before storage, use anhydrous ethanol or a dedicated cleaning agent to thoroughly remove oil stains, cutting fluid, dust, and sweat from the surface of the platform.

Comprehensive rust prevention: Preferred method (fine surface): After cleaning, immediately apply a layer of rust preventive oil or hard film rust preventative to the entire surface, including the working surface, sides, and bottom. For precision platforms, special rust preventive oil for instruments and meters can be used.

Auxiliary method: Apply industrial Vaseline or butter (low cost, but may attract dust).

Covering protection: After applying oil, rust-proof paper, neutral wax paper, or non-corrosive plastic film can be used for covering and wrapping. It is strictly prohibited to use ordinary plastic bags or damp cloths to directly contact the surface, to avoid condensation that may cause rusting.

Regular inspection and maintenance: Check the surface condition every 3-6 months. If the anti-rust layer is found to be dried out or there are local rust spots, it is necessary to clean them up in time and perform anti-rust treatment again.

IV. Record and management status label: Hang or affix a label indicating the platform specifications, accuracy level, last verification date, rust prevention treatment date, and next inspection date.

Storage and retrieval guidelines: The storage area should be clearly marked. During storage and retrieval, utilize appropriate lifting equipment (such as forklifts or cranes), and handle with care to avoid collisions.