Q3 - What should I use to clean my granite surface plate?

A3 - Surface plates should only be cleaned with a precision granite surface plate cleaner. These specific cleaners are available from granite surface plate manufacturers and are usually sold through distributors. NO other cleaners are recommended (especially household cleaners) since they have a tendency of
leaving soft - wax like - sticky residues.

Q4 - Granite plates vs Steel plates. Is granite better?

A4 - Granite plates are considered to be a better surface for measuring purposes for the following reasons:

1 - When nicked, a steel plate will have displaced metal leaving a raised edge which can result in measurement variations should a part or gauge be sitting on this raised edge. If a granite plate is nicked with a part it will simply just chip away leaving no raised edges.

2 - Granite plates have a much lower coefficient of thermal expansion and absorption than steel therefore allowing for a more normalized temperature over a longer
period of time.

3 - Much higher degree of accuracy is obtainable on a granite surface plate.

4 - Granite has better wear characteristics than does steel.

5 - Granite plates do not rust/corrode and are considered virtually non-magnetic.