How to Level a CNC Machine Using RIKEN Precision Flat Level Malaysia

How to Level a CNC Machine Using RIKEN Precision Flat Level Malaysia

Introduction

CNC machine leveling is an essential procedure during the installation, relocation and maintenance of precision machining equipment.

In Malaysia, CNC machining workshops, precision engineering factories and industrial maintenance contractors often require high sensitivity precision levels to support accurate machinery installation.

Incorrect machine leveling may contribute to machine bed distortion, uneven support loading, alignment difficulties and machining problems, depending on the machine design.

The RIKEN KEISOKUKI RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 Precision Flat Levels are Japanese precision leveling instruments designed for machine installation, assembly and centering applications.

Both models provide 0.02 mm/m sensitivity, making them suitable for detecting very small angular deviations during machine leveling.

This guide explains how precision levels are used during CNC machine installation, how to recognize possible leveling problems and what precautions technicians should follow.

MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supplies RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 Precision Flat Levels in Malaysia.

1. Why Is CNC Machine Leveling Important?

A CNC machine must be installed on a suitable foundation and supported according to the manufacturer's requirements.

Machine leveling helps establish the intended mechanical reference conditions during installation.

Depending on the machine design, incorrect support adjustment may contribute to:

Machine Bed Twist

Uneven Machine Support Loading

Installation-Related Geometric Errors

Mechanical Alignment Problems

Machining Accuracy Difficulties

Machine Vibration or Stability Concerns

For example, a CNC lathe installed with incorrectly adjusted supports may experience machine bed distortion.

Similarly, a CNC milling machine may require leveling and additional geometric checks before commissioning.

Important: A machine being horizontally level does not automatically guarantee machining accuracy.

Machine geometry, spindle alignment, foundation stability, thermal conditions and mechanical condition must also be considered.

2. What Is a RIKEN Precision Flat Level?

A RIKEN Precision Flat Level is a high sensitivity measuring instrument used to detect small angular deviations from a horizontal reference.

The RIKEN RFL series is manufactured by RIKEN KEISOKUKI, Japan.

It is designed for industrial machinery applications rather than ordinary construction leveling.

Two models supplied by MTM Precision are:

RIKEN RFL-1502

Length: 150 mm

Sensitivity: 0.02 mm/m

Net Weight: 1.8 kg

RIKEN RFL-2002

Length: 200 mm

Sensitivity: 0.02 mm/m

Net Weight: 2.3 kg

Both instruments are intended for precision machine installation, assembly and centering.

The main difference between these models is their physical length and weight.

3. Understanding 0.02 mm/m Sensitivity

The RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 both feature 0.02 mm/m sensitivity.

This means one nominal sensitivity increment corresponds to an inclination equivalent to a height difference of 0.02 mm over one metre.

Inclination Reference Table

Horizontal DistanceEquivalent Height Difference100 mm0.002 mm150 mm0.003 mm200 mm0.004 mm500 mm0.010 mm1,000 mm0.020 mm

For example, a slope of 0.02 mm/m corresponds mathematically to a height difference of 0.004 mm over 200 mm.

These values describe equivalent inclination, not guaranteed measurement accuracy.

Sensitivity, accuracy and calibration uncertainty are different measurement characteristics.

For critical machine installation work, the instrument's calibration condition and the equipment manufacturer's tolerance requirements should be verified.

4. Tools Required for CNC Machine Leveling

Before beginning the leveling process, technicians should prepare the appropriate equipment.

Typical tools may include:

RIKEN RFL-1502 or RFL-2002 Precision Flat Level

Suitable leveling screw adjustment tools

Machine manufacturer's installation manual

Clean lint-free cloth

Approved cleaning materials

Appropriate inspection equipment

Machine leveling record sheet

Additional alignment instruments where required

Some machines may require additional precision measuring equipment for geometric inspection.

Important: Follow the machine manufacturer's installation procedure and applicable workplace safety requirements.

5. Step-by-Step CNC Machine Leveling Procedure

The following procedure provides a general explanation of machine leveling using a precision flat level.

Actual measuring positions, adjustment sequences and tolerances depend on the CNC machine manufacturer and machine design.

Step 1 - Check the Machine Foundation

Before using the precision level, inspect the installation conditions.

Check that:

The machine is positioned correctly.

The foundation meets installation requirements.

The leveling supports are correctly installed.

The machine is stable.

Required safety precautions are in place.

Do not attempt to correct foundation or support defects simply by adjusting the leveling screws.

Step 2 - Identify the Correct Reference Surface

Locate the machine manufacturer's designated leveling reference surface.

Depending on the machine, this may be a specified precision-machined surface or another approved measuring location.

Do not assume every exposed machine surface is suitable for precision leveling.

Step 3 - Clean the Measuring Surface

Remove contamination such as:

Metal chips

Dust

Oil residue

Dirt

Burrs or other surface defects

The precision level must rest correctly on the intended reference surface.

Even small particles can affect the instrument's seating and measurement consistency.

Step 4 - Position the RIKEN Precision Flat Level

Carefully place the RIKEN RFL-1502 or RFL-2002 on the designated reference surface.

Use the model that fits the available measuring area.

Avoid impacts, unnecessary sliding or contact with damaged surfaces.

Step 5 - Allow the Instrument to Stabilize

Allow the instrument and machine to reach suitable measurement conditions.

Avoid taking readings during excessive vibration or rapid temperature changes.

For high sensitivity measurements, stable environmental conditions are important.

Step 6 - Observe the Level Indication

Read the instrument according to the manufacturer's operating instructions.

Identify the direction of inclination.

Record the reading and measuring position if required.

Important: Interpret the level indication using the manufacturer's specified reading method.

Step 7 - Adjust the Machine Leveling Screws

Adjust the machine supports gradually according to the CNC manufacturer's recommended sequence.

Avoid excessive or uneven adjustments.

Some machines require particular supports to be adjusted first to prevent unwanted machine distortion.

Step 8 - Check Longitudinal Leveling

Where specified, check the machine along its longitudinal reference direction.

Record the indication and compare it with the manufacturer's installation tolerance.

Step 9 - Check Transverse Leveling

Where specified, check the machine across its transverse reference direction.

This may help identify inclination differences or support-related distortion.

The exact procedure depends on the machine design.

Step 10 - Repeat and Verify

Repeat the required measurements after adjustment.

Confirm that the machine meets the specified leveling requirements.

Additional machine geometry checks may be necessary before commissioning.

Precision leveling is one part of machine installation, not a complete machine accuracy verification procedure.

6. What Is Machine Bed Twist?

Machine bed twist refers to torsional distortion of a machine bed or supporting structure.

It may occur when machine supports are incorrectly adjusted or when installation conditions create uneven mechanical loading.

Machine bed twist is particularly important in certain lathe installations.

Possible Causes

Uneven Leveling Screw Adjustment

Incorrect Machine Support Conditions

Foundation Settlement

Machine Relocation

Improper Installation Procedure

Possible Effects

Depending on machine design, bed twist may contribute to:

Geometric alignment errors

Turning accuracy problems

Inconsistent machining results

Installation-related mechanical distortion

A precision flat level may be used as part of the inspection and adjustment procedure.

However, detecting and correcting machine bed twist requires following the machine manufacturer's designated measurement positions and methods.

A single level reading cannot establish whether a machine bed is free from twist.

7. How to Check CNC Machine Leveling in Two Directions

Many machine leveling procedures involve checking more than one measuring direction.

Longitudinal Direction

This generally refers to the lengthwise direction of the machine.

The precision level is positioned on the specified longitudinal reference surface.

Transverse Direction

This generally refers to the direction across the machine.

The precision level is positioned on the specified transverse reference surface.

Why Are Both Directions Important?

A machine may show acceptable inclination in one direction but require adjustment in another.

Checking both directions can provide more information about the machine's installation condition.

However, the correct measurement procedure must be based on the particular machine design.

8. RIKEN RFL-1502 vs RFL-2002 for CNC Machine Leveling

Both models offer the same sensitivity.

SpecificationRFL-1502RFL-2002BrandRIKENRIKENLength150 mm200 mmSensitivity0.02 mm/m0.02 mm/mWeight1.8 kg2.3 kgMain UsePrecision Machine LevelingPrecision Machine LevelingTypical SelectionShorter Reference SurfaceLonger Reference Surface

When to Choose RFL-1502

The RFL-1502 may be more convenient when the machine has a smaller accessible measuring surface.

When to Choose RFL-2002

The RFL-2002 may be preferred when the machine has a sufficiently large reference surface suitable for a 200 mm instrument.

Both models have 0.02 mm/m sensitivity.

The longer RFL-2002 should not automatically be considered more accurate than the RFL-1502.

9. Common CNC Machine Leveling Problems and Troubleshooting

Problem 1 - Unstable Level Reading

Possible Causes:

Nearby machine vibration

Unstable measuring surface

Temperature changes

Improper instrument positioning

Recommended Action:

Check the measurement environment and allow the reading to stabilize.

Problem 2 - Different Readings at Different Positions

Possible Causes:

Different surface inclinations

Surface contamination

Machine geometry differences

Incorrect measuring positions

Recommended Action:

Verify the designated reference surfaces and follow the machine manufacturer's inspection procedure.

Problem 3 - Machine Level Changes After Adjustment

Possible Causes:

Support interaction

Uneven leveling screw loading

Foundation movement

Incorrect adjustment sequence

Recommended Action:

Recheck the machine supports and follow the specified leveling sequence.

Problem 4 - Machine Is Level but Machining Accuracy Is Poor

Possible Causes:

Machine geometry errors

Spindle or axis alignment problems

Thermal effects

Tooling issues

Mechanical wear

Recommended Action:

Perform additional machine inspections rather than assuming leveling is the only cause.

Problem 5 - Precision Level Gives Inconsistent Results

Possible Causes:

Dirty measuring surfaces

Instrument damage

Incorrect handling

Unstable environmental conditions

Recommended Action:

Inspect the instrument and verify its condition using the manufacturer's recommended procedures.

10. When Should CNC Machines Be Re-Leveled?

Machine leveling checks may be necessary under several circumstances.

New Machine Installation

Initial leveling is normally part of the installation process.

Machine Relocation

Moving a CNC machine can change its support conditions.

Foundation Settlement

Changes in the floor or foundation may affect machine stability.

Major Machine Maintenance

Certain maintenance procedures may require leveling verification.

Machine Geometry Investigation

Leveling checks may form part of troubleshooting when machining accuracy changes.

Periodic Maintenance

Some machine manufacturers recommend scheduled leveling inspections.

The correct inspection interval depends on the machine and operating conditions.

11. Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using a RIKEN Precision Flat Level, technicians should avoid the following mistakes.

Mistake 1 - Using an Ordinary Surface as a Reference

Only use measuring positions approved by the machine manufacturer.

Mistake 2 - Ignoring Instrument Sensitivity

A 0.02 mm/m precision level is highly sensitive to small inclination changes.

Mistake 3 - Adjusting Leveling Screws Without a Procedure

Incorrect adjustments may introduce machine distortion.

Mistake 4 - Measuring During Vibration

Excessive vibration can affect reading stability.

Mistake 5 - Confusing Sensitivity with Accuracy

The instrument's sensitivity specification does not establish total measurement uncertainty.

Mistake 6 - Assuming Horizontal Level Means Perfect Machine Geometry

Machine leveling and machine geometry verification are different procedures.

Mistake 7 - Ignoring Calibration Condition

Precision instruments should be checked and verified as appropriate for their intended measurement application.

12. CNC Machine Leveling Applications in Malaysia

The RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 Precision Flat Levels are relevant to industrial machinery installation and maintenance across Malaysia.

Selangor and Kuala Lumpur

Precision engineering workshops, industrial maintenance companies and CNC machining facilities may require high sensitivity leveling instruments.

Johor

Manufacturing factories, machining workshops and machine installation contractors may use precision levels during equipment setup.

Penang

Precision engineering, electronics manufacturing and industrial machinery maintenance applications may require accurate leveling procedures.

Melaka and Negeri Sembilan

Machine installation and industrial maintenance activities can involve precision leveling instruments.

Perak, Kedah and Other Malaysian States

Industrial equipment installation and machine servicing companies may also require precision flat levels.

MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supports product enquiries from customers throughout Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak.

13. Frequently Asked Questions About CNC Machine Leveling

Q1. What precision level is suitable for CNC machine leveling?

The correct instrument depends on the machine manufacturer's requirements.

The RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 both provide 0.02 mm/m sensitivity for precision machinery applications.

Q2. What does 0.02 mm/m mean?

It represents an inclination equivalent to a height difference of 0.02 mm over one metre.

Q3. Can I use an ordinary spirit level for CNC installation?

An ordinary spirit level may not provide the required sensitivity.

Always check the CNC machine manufacturer's specified leveling requirements.

Q4. What causes CNC machine bed twist?

Possible causes include uneven support loading, incorrect leveling adjustment and foundation-related conditions.

Q5. How often should CNC machines be leveled?

The frequency depends on the machine manufacturer's recommendations, operating conditions and maintenance requirements.

Q6. Which is better, RFL-1502 or RFL-2002?

Both models offer 0.02 mm/m sensitivity.

Choose based on the available measuring surface and required instrument dimensions.

Q7. Can precision leveling solve all machining accuracy problems?

No.

Machining accuracy depends on multiple factors, including machine geometry, mechanical condition, tooling and thermal stability.

Q8. Where can I buy a RIKEN Precision Flat Level in Malaysia?

Contact MTM Precision Sdn Bhd for RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 product enquiries and quotations.

14. Buy RIKEN Precision Flat Level in Malaysia

If you are looking for a CNC Machine Leveling Instrument Malaysia supplier, MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supplies Japanese precision leveling instruments.

Available RIKEN Models

RIKEN RFL-1502 Precision Flat Level

150 mm Length

0.02 mm/m Sensitivity

1.8 kg Net Weight

Made in Japan

RIKEN RFL-2002 Precision Flat Level

200 mm Length

0.02 mm/m Sensitivity

2.3 kg Net Weight

Made in Japan

Typical Applications

CNC Machine Installation

Machine Tool Leveling

Precision Machinery Maintenance

Industrial Equipment Assembly

Machine Relocation

Machine Alignment Preparation

Contact MTM Precision to confirm pricing and availability.

15. Contact MTM Precision Sdn Bhd

MTM Precision Sdn Bhd

Showroom & Service Centre

No. 29-1 & 29-2, Jalan Bandar 18,

Pusat Bandar Puchong,

47160 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia.

Telephone: 03-8080 7172

WhatsApp: +6016-660 7346

Email: mtmpre@yahoo.com

Website: www.mtmpre.com.my

For RIKEN Precision Flat Level Malaysia enquiries, contact our team through WhatsApp.

You may send us your CNC machine model, machine reference surface dimensions, required sensitivity or application details.

Our team can assist with selecting between the RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002.

Conclusion

Proper CNC machine leveling is an important part of machinery installation, relocation and maintenance.

Using a suitable precision level helps technicians detect small inclination differences and perform machine adjustment according to the manufacturer's requirements.

The RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 Precision Flat Levels provide 0.02 mm/m sensitivity for precision machinery applications.

The RFL-1502 features a 150 mm body, while the RFL-2002 features a 200 mm body.

Both models are supplied by MTM Precision Sdn Bhd in Malaysia.

For product enquiries, quotations or assistance selecting a suitable RIKEN Precision Flat Level, contact MTM Precision today.