The terms “level” and “flat” are used interchangeably and, in some cases, assumed to mean the same thing.  In fact, they are different, but both can be measured using laser alignment tools. Flat or flatness refers to the topography, curvature or smoothness of a surface or machine.  Sometimes engineers use the term “planer” when talking about flatness of a machine bed, ways, ground surfaces and other mechanical structures. Level, on...

Lathes, milling machines, jig borers, grinding machines, and other machine tools all have moving slides or tables that experience wear.  Power failures, programming errors, and failing parts can result in machine tool failures and excessive damage to slides and ways when parts of the machine collide.  Checking your machine tools for excessive wear and damage is easy and straightforward with a laser alignment system.  These checks allow you...