RIKEN Precision Flat Level for Industrial Machine Maintenance and Preventive Inspection Malaysia

RIKEN Precision Flat Level for Industrial Machine Maintenance and Preventive Inspection Malaysia

Introduction

Industrial machine preventive maintenance helps manufacturing companies maintain equipment condition, identify developing problems and reduce the risk of unexpected production interruptions.

For CNC machines, precision lathes, milling machines and other industrial equipment, maintenance involves more than lubrication, cleaning and replacement of worn components.

The machine's installation condition, support stability and leveling condition may also require periodic inspection.

Changes in machine support or foundation conditions can influence the geometric condition of certain machines.

A high sensitivity precision flat level can help maintenance technicians identify changes in inclination at designated machine reference surfaces.

The RIKEN KEISOKUKI RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 Precision Flat Levels are Japanese precision leveling instruments with 0.02 mm/m sensitivity.

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

MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supplies these precision flat levels in Malaysia.

This article explains how precision leveling inspections can support an industrial preventive maintenance program, including inspection planning, measurement records, troubleshooting and instrument selection.

1. What Is Industrial Machine Preventive Maintenance?

Preventive Maintenance (PM) is a planned maintenance approach intended to help equipment remain in suitable operating condition.

Instead of waiting until a machine fails, maintenance teams perform scheduled inspections and servicing.

Typical preventive maintenance activities include:

Lubrication Inspection

Mechanical Component Inspection

Machine Cleaning

Electrical System Inspection

Machine Alignment Verification

Machine Support Inspection

Machine Leveling Verification

Maintenance Record Management

Not every machine requires the same inspection activities or frequency.

Maintenance requirements depend on the equipment design, operating environment, manufacturer's recommendations and production requirements.

For certain precision machines, leveling condition inspection may form part of the preventive maintenance program.

2. Why Should Machine Leveling Be Checked During Maintenance?

A machine's installation condition may change over time.

Possible contributing factors include:

Foundation Movement

Changes in the floor or foundation may affect the machine's support condition.

Support Adjustment Changes

Machine leveling supports may require inspection after relevant maintenance work.

Machine Relocation

Moving equipment can change its original installation conditions.

Mechanical Stress

Some machine structures are sensitive to changes in support loading.

Environmental Changes

Temperature variations and operating conditions may influence precision measurements and machine geometry.

For these reasons, certain machines may benefit from periodic leveling verification.

However, machine leveling inspections should follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

A machine that remains stable and operates correctly does not necessarily require frequent support adjustments.

3. What Is a Precision Machine Leveling Inspection?

A precision machine leveling inspection involves checking the inclination of designated machine reference surfaces using a suitable measuring instrument.

The purpose may include:

Verifying the specified installation condition

Comparing current readings with previous measurements

Identifying changes after machine relocation

Supporting machine geometry investigations

Checking the results of maintenance-related adjustments

A precision flat level provides inclination information.

It does not directly measure all aspects of machine geometry.

For example, a machine may meet its specified leveling condition while still having spindle alignment, axis straightness or other geometric problems.

Precision leveling is one part of a complete machine condition assessment.

4. RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 for Preventive Maintenance

The RIKEN Precision Flat Level Series includes instruments suitable for precision machinery applications.

Two models available from MTM Precision are:

SpecificationRFL-1502RFL-2002ManufacturerRIKEN KEISOKUKIRIKEN KEISOKUKICountry of OriginJapanJapanInstrument TypePrecision Flat LevelPrecision Flat LevelLength150 mm200 mmSensitivity0.02 mm/m0.02 mm/mNet Weight1.8 kg2.3 kgApplicationPrecision MachineryPrecision Machinery

RIKEN RFL-1502

The 150 mm body may be useful where the designated measuring surface is relatively small.

RIKEN RFL-2002

The 200 mm body may be preferred when a longer suitable reference surface is available.

Both models feature the same specified sensitivity.

The correct model should be selected according to the machine's measurement requirements and available reference surface.

5. Understanding 0.02 mm/m Sensitivity in Maintenance Inspection

Both RIKEN models feature 0.02 mm/m sensitivity.

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

Equivalent Inclination Values

Horizontal DistanceHeight Difference at 0.02 mm/m100 mm0.002 mm150 mm0.003 mm200 mm0.004 mm500 mm0.010 mm1,000 mm0.020 mm

For example, an inclination of 0.02 mm/m corresponds mathematically to a height difference of 0.004 mm across 200 mm.

These figures illustrate slope.

They do not represent guaranteed measurement accuracy or acceptable machine tolerances.

Sensitivity, accuracy, resolution and calibration uncertainty are different measurement characteristics.

For preventive maintenance, consistent measurement methods are essential when comparing results over time.

6. Establishing a Machine Leveling Baseline

One useful approach in preventive maintenance is to establish a baseline measurement record.

A baseline represents the machine's documented measurement condition at a particular time.

It can be used for future comparisons.

When Can a Baseline Be Established?

A baseline may be recorded:

After initial machine installation

Following manufacturer-approved leveling

After machine relocation and commissioning

Following relevant maintenance work

During a scheduled geometry inspection

What Information Should Be Recorded?

A machine leveling record may include:

Machine Identification

Record the machine model and identification number.

Inspection Date

Document when the measurement was performed.

Instrument Information

Record the precision level model and identification details.

Measuring Position

Identify the exact reference surface and instrument orientation.

Measurement Reading

Record the actual instrument indication.

Environmental Conditions

Document relevant temperature or vibration conditions when necessary.

Technician Information

Record who performed the inspection.

Inspection Remarks

Note any unusual conditions or recommended follow-up actions.

A properly documented baseline helps maintenance teams identify meaningful changes.

7. Example of a Machine Leveling Inspection Record

The following is an illustrative maintenance record format.

Inspection ItemExample EntryMachine TypeCNC Milling MachineMachine IdentificationVMC-01Inspection Date10 October 2026Precision LevelRIKEN RFL-2002Sensitivity0.02 mm/mReference PositionManufacturer-Designated Position AInstrument OrientationLongitudinalReadingRecord Actual IndicationComparisonCompare with BaselineTechnicianMaintenance DepartmentActionFollow Manufacturer Requirements

The table is a sample documentation format, not a record of an actual machine inspection.

The maintenance team should use real readings and the machine manufacturer's acceptance criteria.

8. How to Perform a Periodic Machine Leveling Inspection

The following procedure provides general inspection guidance.

Actual measurement positions, operating conditions and tolerances must follow the equipment manufacturer's documentation.

Step 1 - Review Previous Records

Check the machine's previous leveling and maintenance records.

Identify any historical problems or significant changes.

Step 2 - Confirm Safe Inspection Conditions

Follow the workplace's machine isolation and safety requirements.

Ensure that the machine is in the specified inspection condition.

Step 3 - Inspect the Machine Supports

Check for visible problems such as damaged supports, unusual contact conditions or foundation-related concerns.

Step 4 - Identify the Approved Measuring Positions

Refer to the machine manufacturer's inspection procedure.

Use the specified reference surfaces.

Step 5 - Clean the Reference Surface

Remove metal chips, dust, oil residue and other contamination.

Step 6 - Position the RIKEN Precision Flat Level

Place the RIKEN RFL-1502 or RFL-2002 carefully on the designated reference surface.

Ensure proper instrument seating.

Step 7 - Allow the Reading to Stabilize

Avoid excessive vibration and rapid temperature changes.

Step 8 - Record the Reading

Observe the indication according to the instrument manufacturer's instructions.

Record the measurement position, orientation and reading.

Step 9 - Compare with the Baseline

Compare the current reading with the previous documented condition.

Consider measurement uncertainty and environmental differences.

Step 10 - Determine Whether Further Investigation Is Required

If a significant change is detected, follow the machine manufacturer's troubleshooting procedure.

Do not automatically adjust machine leveling screws simply because a reading differs from an earlier measurement.

9. How to Identify Changes in Machine Leveling Condition

Preventive maintenance is more useful when measurements can be compared over time.

Consider the following illustrative example.

Previous Measurement

Inclination: 0.04 mm/m

Current Measurement

Inclination: 0.10 mm/m

Difference

0.10 - 0.04 = 0.06 mm/m

The indicated inclination has changed by 0.06 mm/m.

This does not automatically mean that the machine has failed its installation tolerance.

The maintenance team should consider:

Measurement repeatability

Instrument condition

Reference surface condition

Environmental differences

Manufacturer-specified tolerances

Relevant calibration uncertainty

If the change is significant, additional investigation may be appropriate.

A trend in level readings can support condition assessment, but it cannot independently identify the cause of a machine problem.

10. Machine Leveling Inspection vs Machine Vibration Monitoring

Machine leveling inspection and machine vibration monitoring provide different information.

Precision Leveling Inspection

A precision level measures inclination relative to a horizontal reference.

It can help assess the machine's leveling condition.

Vibration Monitoring

A vibration instrument measures dynamic vibration characteristics.

Depending on the instrument and method, vibration analysis may help investigate rotating machinery condition.

Comparison

Inspection MethodMain MeasurementPrecision Flat LevelInclinationVibration MeterMechanical VibrationDial IndicatorDisplacement or RunoutLaser Alignment InstrumentSpecified Alignment GeometryTemperature InstrumentTemperature

These instruments serve different purposes.

A precision level should not be treated as a replacement for vibration analysis or complete machine geometry inspection.

For industrial maintenance, different instruments may be used together depending on the equipment and inspection objectives.

11. Common Problems Found During Leveling Inspection

Problem 1 - Level Reading Has Changed

Possible Causes:

Changed support conditions

Foundation movement

Different measurement conditions

Instrument or reference surface issues

Recommended Action:

Repeat the measurement under controlled conditions and compare it with the baseline.

Problem 2 - Machine Is Level but Produces Poor Machining Results

Possible Causes:

Tooling problems

Machine wear

Axis geometry errors

Thermal effects

Workpiece deflection

Recommended Action:

Carry out additional mechanical and machining investigations.

Problem 3 - Reading Is Unstable

Possible Causes:

Nearby machinery vibration

Poor instrument seating

Temperature changes

Recommended Action:

Improve measurement conditions and repeat the reading.

Problem 4 - Different Readings at Different Positions

Possible Causes:

Surface inclination differences

Machine geometry variations

Incorrect reference positions

Recommended Action:

Confirm the manufacturer's approved measuring positions and inspection procedure.

Problem 5 - Repeated Changes After Adjustment

Possible Causes:

Foundation movement

Support-related issues

Incorrect adjustment procedure

Recommended Action:

Investigate the support and foundation conditions before making further adjustments.

12. How Often Should Machine Leveling Be Inspected?

There is no single inspection interval suitable for every industrial machine.

The appropriate frequency depends on:

Machine Manufacturer Recommendations

Machine Type

Operating Conditions

Foundation Stability

Maintenance History

Required Machining Performance

Previous Inspection Results

Some machines may require checks during scheduled maintenance.

Others may require leveling verification only after specific events.

Event-Based Inspection Examples

After Machine Relocation

Verify the machine's installation condition.

After Foundation Work

Check whether the machine support conditions have changed.

After Relevant Mechanical Maintenance

Perform leveling verification if required by the service procedure.

During Geometry Troubleshooting

Use leveling measurements as part of the investigation.

After Unexpected Support Changes

Inspect the machine according to the manufacturer's requirements.

A maintenance manager should establish inspection intervals based on equipment documentation and operational risk.

13. Common Mistakes in Preventive Leveling Inspection

Mistake 1 - Taking Measurements Without a Baseline

Without historical records, it may be difficult to identify changes.

Mistake 2 - Using Different Measuring Positions

Measurements from different positions may not be directly comparable.

Mistake 3 - Ignoring Environmental Conditions

Temperature and vibration can affect precision measurements.

Mistake 4 - Confusing Sensitivity with Accuracy

0.02 mm/m sensitivity does not mean guaranteed accuracy of 0.02 mm.

Mistake 5 - Adjusting Supports After Every Small Change

Not every measurement difference requires adjustment.

Mistake 6 - Ignoring Calibration Status

Instrument condition and calibration requirements should be considered.

Mistake 7 - Assuming Leveling Checks Replace Machine Geometry Inspection

Additional instruments may be required to evaluate complete machine geometry.

Mistake 8 - Failing to Record Maintenance Results

Without documentation, future comparisons become more difficult.

14. Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Precision Machinery

The following general checklist can support maintenance planning.

Inspection ItemPurposeMachine IdentificationIdentify the inspected equipmentPrevious RecordsReview historical conditionFoundation ConditionCheck installation supportMachine SupportsIdentify visible support problemsPrecision Level ConditionConfirm instrument suitabilityReference SurfaceUse approved measuring positionsInclination ReadingRecord current measurementBaseline ComparisonIdentify relevant changesGeometry VerificationPerform additional checks if requiredMaintenance ActionDocument follow-up decisions

This checklist should be adapted to the specific machine manufacturer's maintenance requirements.

15. Industrial Preventive Maintenance Applications in Malaysia

The RIKEN Precision Flat Level Series is relevant to industrial machinery maintenance throughout Malaysia.

Selangor and Kuala Lumpur

Precision engineering factories, CNC workshops and machine tool maintenance companies may require sensitive leveling instruments.

Johor

Manufacturing facilities and industrial maintenance teams may use precision levels during equipment inspection and maintenance.

Penang

Electronics manufacturing, precision engineering and industrial machinery service companies may require high sensitivity leveling instruments.

Melaka and Negeri Sembilan

Industrial maintenance contractors and manufacturing companies may use precision flat levels for suitable machinery applications.

Perak and Kedah

Machine tool workshops and industrial engineering companies may require precision leveling equipment.

MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supports industrial product enquiries throughout Malaysia, including Pahang, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, Sabah and Sarawak.

16. Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Machine Leveling

Q1. What is preventive machine leveling inspection?

It is a planned inspection of the machine's leveling condition using suitable measuring equipment.

Q2. Why should machine leveling readings be recorded?

Records help maintenance teams compare current measurements with previous conditions.

Q3. Can a precision level detect foundation settlement?

A precision level may indicate changes in inclination associated with foundation movement, but it cannot independently confirm foundation settlement.

Q4. What is the sensitivity of RIKEN RFL-1502?

The RIKEN RFL-1502 has 0.02 mm/m sensitivity.

Q5. What is the sensitivity of RIKEN RFL-2002?

The RIKEN RFL-2002 also has 0.02 mm/m sensitivity.

Q6. How often should CNC machine leveling be checked?

Follow the machine manufacturer's recommendations and the facility's maintenance requirements.

Q7. Should leveling screws be adjusted after every inspection?

No.

Adjustments should be made only when justified by the manufacturer's requirements and inspection results.

Q8. Can a precision level replace a vibration meter?

No.

A precision level measures inclination, while a vibration meter measures dynamic vibration.

Q9. Which RIKEN model is suitable for preventive maintenance?

Both models may be suitable when their dimensions and sensitivity meet the application requirements.

Q10. Where can I buy RIKEN Precision Flat Levels in Malaysia?

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

17. Buy RIKEN Precision Flat Level for Preventive Maintenance Malaysia

If your company requires a high sensitivity precision level for industrial machine maintenance, MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supplies Japanese RIKEN precision flat levels.

RIKEN RFL-1502 Precision Flat Level

Length: 150 mm

Sensitivity: 0.02 mm/m

Net Weight: 1.8 kg

Origin: Japan

RIKEN RFL-2002 Precision Flat Level

Length: 200 mm

Sensitivity: 0.02 mm/m

Net Weight: 2.3 kg

Origin: Japan

Typical Applications

Industrial Preventive Maintenance

CNC Machine Leveling Inspection

Machine Tool Maintenance

Precision Machinery Installation

Machine Relocation

Factory Equipment Inspection

Machine Alignment Preparation

Contact MTM Precision for product quotations and current stock availability.

18. 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 RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 Precision Flat Level Malaysia enquiries, contact our team through WhatsApp.

Please send us your machine model, required sensitivity, measuring surface dimensions or preventive maintenance application details.

Our team can assist with product selection and quotation requests.

Conclusion

Industrial machine preventive maintenance helps factories maintain equipment condition and identify potential problems before they lead to major operational difficulties.

For certain precision machines, periodic machine leveling inspection may be useful for monitoring changes in installation conditions.

A suitable high sensitivity precision flat level helps technicians detect small inclination changes at designated reference surfaces.

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

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

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

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