BS 817:2008

Overview

BS 817:2008 is the British Standard that specifies the requirements for surface plates used in metrology and measurement applications. Surface plates are critical tools in manufacturing and quality control environments, providing a flat reference surface for precision measurement and inspection processes. This standard outlines the specifications necessary to ensure that surface plates meet the required accuracy and performance standards.

Key Requirements

• Material Specifications: The standard details the acceptable materials for surface plates, including granite and cast iron, ensuring durability and stability.
• Flatness Tolerance: BS 817:2008 specifies the flatness tolerances that surface plates must adhere to, which are crucial for accurate measurements.
• Surface Finish: The standard outlines the required surface finish characteristics to minimise wear and maintain measurement accuracy over time.
• Dimensional Accuracy: Requirements for dimensional accuracy are defined, ensuring that the plates can be used effectively in various measurement applications.
• Calibration: The standard includes guidelines for the calibration of surface plates to ensure ongoing compliance and measurement reliability.

Implementation Benefits

Implementing BS 817:2008 in your organisation can lead to significant benefits:

• Enhanced Measurement Accuracy: Adhering to this standard ensures that surface plates provide a reliable reference for measurements, reducing the risk of errors in production and quality control.
• Improved Product Quality: By using compliant surface plates, manufacturers can enhance the overall quality of their products, leading to higher customer satisfaction and reduced returns.
• Operational Efficiency: Standardised surface plates facilitate streamlined measurement processes, reducing time spent on inspections and increasing throughput.
• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with BS 817:2008 demonstrates a commitment to quality and precision, which can be beneficial for meeting regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS 817:2008 is essential for organisations involved in precision engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance. This standard not only provides a framework for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of surface plates but also serves as a benchmark for best practices in measurement and inspection. By adhering to these specifications, organisations can mitigate risks associated with measurement inaccuracies, enhance their reputation in the market, and ensure customer trust in their products.

In summary, BS 817:2008 is a vital standard for any organisation that relies on precision measurement. By implementing the requirements set forth in this standard, businesses can achieve significant improvements in measurement accuracy, product quality, and operational efficiency, while also ensuring compliance with industry regulations.