How to Store, Handle and Maintain RIKEN Precision Flat Levels Malaysia

How to Store, Handle and Maintain RIKEN Precision Flat Levels Malaysia

Introduction

A precision flat level is a sensitive measuring instrument used for industrial machine installation, precision equipment adjustment and machine leveling inspection.

Unlike an ordinary construction spirit level, a high sensitivity precision level is intended to detect very small inclination changes.

Proper handling, cleaning, storage and periodic verification are important for maintaining reliable measurement performance.

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

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

MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supplies both RIKEN models in Malaysia.

This guide explains how to care for precision flat levels, common handling mistakes, storage recommendations and when calibration or inspection may be necessary.

1. Why Is Precision Level Maintenance Important?

A precision level is used to detect small differences in inclination.

Because these measurements can be sensitive to instrument condition and measurement technique, improper handling may affect reliability.

Common risks include:

Impact Damage

Contaminated Measuring Surfaces

Improper Storage

Corrosion

Temperature Differences

Incorrect Handling

Instrument Adjustment Changes

For example, a damaged measuring surface may prevent the instrument from seating correctly on a machine reference surface.

This can produce inconsistent readings.

Similarly, using a precision level on a dirty machine surface can affect the measurement.

Good instrument care supports consistent measurement results and helps protect the instrument from avoidable damage.

2. RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 Specifications

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

SpecificationRFL-1502RFL-2002ManufacturerRIKEN KEISOKUKIRIKEN KEISOKUKICountry of OriginJapanJapanInstrument TypePrecision Flat LevelPrecision Flat LevelNominal Length150 mm200 mmSensitivity0.02 mm/m0.02 mm/mNet Weight1.8 kg2.3 kgApplicationPrecision MachineryPrecision Machinery

RIKEN RFL-1502

The 150 mm model may be suitable for smaller designated machine reference surfaces.

RIKEN RFL-2002

The 200 mm model may be preferred where a longer suitable measuring surface is available.

Both models feature the same specified sensitivity.

The longer RFL-2002 is not automatically more accurate than the RFL-1502.

3. Understanding Why 0.02 mm/m Instruments Require Careful Handling

The 0.02 mm/m sensitivity specification represents a very small inclination.

It is equivalent to a height difference of 0.02 mm over a horizontal distance of one metre.

Equivalent Inclination Examples

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

These figures illustrate the magnitude of inclination involved.

They are not guaranteed measurement accuracy values.

Because high sensitivity instruments are used for small inclination measurements, technicians should pay attention to surface condition, instrument seating and environmental stability.

Sensitivity, accuracy and measurement uncertainty are different characteristics.

4. How to Handle a Precision Flat Level Correctly

Proper handling begins before the instrument is placed on the machine.

Step 1 - Use Clean Hands or Suitable Gloves

Avoid transferring excessive oil, dirt or contamination onto the instrument.

If gloves are used, they should be clean and allow secure handling.

Step 2 - Hold the Instrument Securely

Support the instrument properly when carrying or positioning it.

The RIKEN models have substantial weight:

RFL-1502: 1.8 kg

RFL-2002: 2.3 kg

Careful handling helps reduce the risk of accidental drops.

Step 3 - Avoid Impact

Do not knock the instrument against machine components.

Step 4 - Avoid Unnecessary Sliding

Dragging a precision level across a contaminated or rough surface may damage the measuring faces.

Step 5 - Position the Instrument Carefully

Place it gently on the designated measuring surface.

Step 6 - Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions

Use the instrument only according to its specified operating requirements.

A precision flat level should be treated as a measuring instrument, not a general workshop tool.

5. How to Clean a Precision Flat Level

Cleaning is an important part of instrument care.

Dust, metal chips, oil residue and other contaminants may interfere with proper seating.

General Cleaning Procedure

Step 1 - Inspect the Instrument

Check for visible contamination or damage.

Step 2 - Remove Loose Debris Carefully

Use a clean, suitable soft cloth or other manufacturer-approved cleaning method.

Avoid rubbing hard particles across precision surfaces.

Step 3 - Clean the Measuring Surface

Remove contamination using the method recommended by the manufacturer.

Step 4 - Dry the Instrument

Ensure that moisture or cleaning residue does not remain on relevant surfaces.

Step 5 - Inspect Before Storage

Confirm that the instrument is clean and dry.

Important Cleaning Precautions

Avoid using:

Abrasive paper

Grinding materials

Metal scrapers

Unapproved solvents

Excessive cleaning force

Do not immerse the instrument in liquid unless the manufacturer specifically permits it.

Always follow RIKEN's official cleaning instructions where available.

6. Why the Measuring Surface Must Be Clean

A precision level relies on proper contact with the reference surface.

If contamination is trapped between the instrument and the machine, the reading may be affected.

Common Contaminants

Metal Chips

Small machining chips may interfere with instrument seating.

Dust

Accumulated dust can affect contact conditions.

Oil Residue

Excessive oil or other residue may cause inconsistent seating.

Surface Debris

Hard particles may damage precision measuring surfaces.

Recommended Practice

Before every measurement:

Inspect the instrument's measuring surface.

Inspect the machine reference surface.

Remove contamination using appropriate methods.

Position the instrument carefully.

Confirm stable seating before taking a reading.

Cleaning both contact surfaces is an important part of precision leveling practice.

7. How to Store a RIKEN Precision Flat Level

Proper storage helps protect the instrument when it is not being used.

Use a Suitable Protective Case

Where provided, use the manufacturer's protective storage case.

A suitable case can help reduce exposure to dust and accidental impact.

Keep the Instrument in a Dry Environment

Avoid storage conditions that may encourage corrosion or moisture-related damage.

Avoid Excessive Temperature Changes

Rapid temperature changes can affect precision measurement conditions.

Protect Against Vibration and Impact

Do not store the instrument where it may fall or be struck by other tools.

Keep Away from Heavy Workshop Equipment

Avoid placing the precision level underneath other equipment or loose metal components.

Follow the Recommended Storage Orientation

Use the manufacturer's specified storage arrangement.

If the correct orientation is unclear, consult the manufacturer or supplier rather than assuming a particular position.

Good storage practice helps protect precision measuring surfaces and instrument condition.

8. Can Temperature Affect Precision Level Measurements?

Yes.

Temperature differences may affect precision measurement conditions.

Possible influences include:

Thermal expansion of machine components

Temperature differences between the instrument and machine

Changes in measuring surface conditions

Thermal effects on the machine structure

Example

A precision level moved from an air-conditioned room into a warm factory may initially be at a different temperature from the machine.

For critical measurements, technicians should allow appropriate thermal stabilization according to the inspection procedure.

Recommended Practice

Avoid unnecessary rapid temperature changes.

Follow the required measurement environment.

Allow suitable stabilization before critical readings.

Record environmental conditions when necessary.

A stable measurement environment supports more consistent precision leveling results.

9. Can Vibration Affect Precision Level Readings?

Yes.

Excessive vibration may cause unstable indications in sensitive leveling instruments.

Common Sources of Workshop Vibration

Operating CNC machines

Nearby industrial motors

Heavy production equipment

Material handling activities

Floor vibration

Recommended Practice

When possible:

Perform measurements under suitable stable conditions.

Avoid nearby operations that cause excessive vibration.

Allow the indication to settle.

Repeat measurements when readings appear inconsistent.

A high sensitivity precision level should be used under measurement conditions suitable for its intended application.

10. What Should You Do If a Precision Level Is Dropped?

An accidental drop may damage the instrument or affect its measurement characteristics.

Recommended Actions

Step 1 - Stop Using the Instrument for Critical Measurements

Do not assume that the instrument remains accurate.

Step 2 - Inspect for Visible Damage

Check for damage to the body, measuring surfaces and visible indication components.

Step 3 - Do Not Attempt Unapproved Repairs

Avoid disassembling or adjusting the instrument without the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 4 - Arrange Appropriate Inspection

Have the instrument evaluated by a qualified service or calibration provider where required.

Step 5 - Verify Measurement Suitability

Confirm the instrument's condition before returning it to critical measurement work.

A precision level may appear undamaged externally while still requiring verification.

After a significant impact, instrument verification is a sensible precaution.

11. When Should a Precision Flat Level Be Calibrated?

The appropriate calibration interval depends on the instrument's use and the organization's measurement requirements.

Relevant factors include:

Frequency of Use

Handling Conditions

Measurement Criticality

Previous Calibration Results

Environmental Exposure

Quality System Requirements

Manufacturer Recommendations

Situations That May Require Verification

After Accidental Impact

A drop or significant shock may justify inspection.

After Suspected Measurement Problems

Unexpected or inconsistent readings may require investigation.

Before Critical Measurement Work

Verify that the instrument's calibration status meets the required procedure.

At the Scheduled Calibration Date

Follow the organization's established calibration program.

After Repair or Adjustment

Relevant measurement characteristics may need to be verified.

There is no universal calibration interval suitable for every precision level.

Calibration frequency should be based on risk, instrument history and applicable requirements.

12. Precision Level Calibration vs Routine Inspection

These activities are related but different.

Routine Inspection

Routine inspection may include checking:

Visible damage

Surface cleanliness

Instrument condition

Proper seating

Reading consistency

Calibration

Calibration establishes the relationship between the instrument indication and reference values under specified conditions.

A calibration result may include indication errors and measurement uncertainty.

Comparison

ActivityPurposeCleaningRemove contaminationVisual InspectionIdentify visible damageRoutine Functional CheckAssess basic instrument conditionCalibrationEstablish measurement characteristicsRepairCorrect identified defects where possible

Routine cleaning or a functional check does not replace calibration when calibration is required.

13. Common Precision Level Problems and Troubleshooting

Problem 1 - Reading Changes Between Repeated Measurements

Possible Causes:

Surface contamination

Instrument seating differences

Vibration

Temperature changes

Recommended Action:

Check the measuring surfaces and repeat the measurement under stable conditions.

Problem 2 - Instrument Has Visible Surface Damage

Possible Causes:

Accidental impact

Improper handling

Contact with hard particles

Recommended Action:

Stop using the instrument for critical measurements until its suitability has been evaluated.

Problem 3 - Reading Appears Incorrect

Possible Causes:

Incorrect measuring position

Instrument condition

Reading method

Calibration issue

Recommended Action:

Review the measurement procedure and arrange verification if necessary.

Problem 4 - Corrosion Is Visible

Possible Causes:

Moisture exposure

Unsuitable storage

Inadequate protection

Recommended Action:

Avoid abrasive removal methods on precision surfaces.

Seek appropriate technical guidance.

Problem 5 - Instrument Was Stored Improperly

Possible Causes:

Exposure to dust

Moisture

Mechanical impact

Heavy objects placed against the instrument

Recommended Action:

Inspect the instrument and verify its suitability before critical use.

14. Common Mistakes When Maintaining Precision Flat Levels

Mistake 1 - Treating the Instrument Like a General Spirit Level

A high sensitivity precision level requires careful handling.

Mistake 2 - Sliding It Across Dirty Surfaces

Hard particles may damage precision contact surfaces.

Mistake 3 - Using Abrasive Cleaning Materials

Abrasive materials can damage measuring faces.

Mistake 4 - Storing It Without Protection

Unprotected storage increases the risk of accidental damage.

Mistake 5 - Ignoring Temperature Differences

Temperature conditions may affect measurement consistency.

Mistake 6 - Continuing to Use It After a Significant Drop

The instrument may require verification.

Mistake 7 - Assuming 0.02 mm/m Means Guaranteed Accuracy

The sensitivity specification is not an accuracy guarantee.

Mistake 8 - Attempting Unapproved Adjustment

Incorrect adjustment may affect instrument performance.

15. Precision Flat Level Care Checklist

The following checklist may help maintenance teams establish a basic instrument care routine.

Inspection ItemRecommended CheckInstrument BodyCheck for visible damageMeasuring SurfaceCheck cleanliness and conditionIndicationCheck for obvious abnormalitiesStorage CaseConfirm suitable protectionMoisture ExposureCheck for signs of corrosionHandling HistoryRecord significant impact eventsCalibration StatusReview applicable requirementsMeasurement ConditionsCheck vibration and temperatureInstrument IdentificationConfirm model and identificationMaintenance RecordsDocument relevant findings

The checklist should be adapted to the manufacturer's instructions and the organization's quality requirements.

16. RIKEN Precision Flat Level Applications in Malaysia

The RIKEN RFL-1502 and RFL-2002 are relevant to precision machinery applications throughout Malaysia.

Selangor and Kuala Lumpur

CNC machining workshops, machine tool service companies and precision engineering factories may require high sensitivity leveling instruments.

Johor

Manufacturing facilities and industrial machinery installation companies may use precision flat levels during equipment setup and inspection.

Penang

Precision engineering, electronics manufacturing and machine maintenance companies may require sensitive leveling instruments.

Melaka and Negeri Sembilan

Industrial maintenance contractors and machinery installation companies may use precision flat levels.

Perak and Kedah

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

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

17. Frequently Asked Questions About Precision Level Maintenance

Q1. How should I clean a precision flat level?

Use suitable non-abrasive cleaning methods recommended by the manufacturer.

Avoid damaging the measuring surfaces.

Q2. Can I use sandpaper to clean a precision level?

No. Abrasive materials may damage precision measuring surfaces.

Q3. Should a precision level be stored in a protective case?

A suitable protective case is recommended, particularly when the instrument is not in use.

Q4. Can temperature affect precision level readings?

Yes. Temperature differences may influence precision measurement conditions.

Q5. What should I do if my precision level is dropped?

Inspect the instrument and arrange appropriate verification before critical use.

Q6. How often should a precision flat level be calibrated?

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations and the organization's calibration requirements.

Q7. What is the sensitivity of RIKEN RFL-1502?

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

Q8. What is the sensitivity of RIKEN RFL-2002?

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

Q9. Does cleaning replace calibration?

No. Cleaning removes contamination, while calibration evaluates measurement characteristics.

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

Contact MTM Precision Sdn Bhd for product enquiries and quotations.

18. Buy RIKEN Precision Flat Level in Malaysia

If your company requires a high sensitivity precision flat level for CNC machines or industrial machinery, MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supplies Japanese RIKEN instruments.

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

CNC Machine Leveling

Precision Machine Installation

Machine Tool Maintenance

Machine Relocation

Industrial Equipment Assembly

Precision Machinery Inspection

Contact MTM Precision for product quotations and current stock availability.

19. 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 application details.

Our team can assist with product selection and quotation requests.

For instrument care or calibration-related enquiries, please provide the model and details of the issue so that available support options can be checked.

Conclusion

Proper precision flat level maintenance helps protect sensitive measuring instruments and supports reliable industrial measurements.

Important practices include careful handling, suitable cleaning, protective storage, environmental awareness and appropriate calibration verification.

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.