When you are handling a workpiece, it's important that the work surface is perfectly flat. So, if the job site has uneven floors, proper leveling must be observed before an application.

Leveling pads are well-suited for this purpose. As components of leveling feet, these parts are used for creating a level surface and clamping. Apart from that, they also allow for optimal weight distribution and vibration control. In some industries, leveling pads also go by the terms “leveling mounts” and “leveling feet.”

Leveling pads come in either socket and stud types.

Socket mounts feature a swivel base that can withstand a high load capacity. They are mainly used for machinery and conveyors that weigh up to 7,000 pounds; socket mount leveling pads are definitely a must-have in mass production facilities. In contrast, threaded stud mounts provide a solid support for light machines and shelving while also adjusting to uneven surfaces.

Depending on the application, you can find leveling pads that are made from different materials. For heavy-duty applications, look towards stainless steel leveling feet with the right base diameter. You also have the option of leveler feet made from carbon steel material and with a black oxide finish. In addition, wedge mounts are also perfect for creating a rigid support base during high-load applications.

Leveling pads with a plastic base, on the other hand, are great for lighter equipment such as office cabinets and desks. For applications involving high vibration and noise levels, consider machine leveling feet designed for vibration isolation.

Whichever the case, you will need to pick a leveling pad with the right thread size and base material. Check out our resources of downloadable literature for more information.

Leveling pads are important tools for adjusting a machine to create an even work surface. This allows operators to manipulate a workpiece as per product specifications. In most cases, adjustable leveling feet are utilized to level a machine on uneven floors.

To do this, the pads are attached to each corner of the machine. The height of each corner can be adjusted by locking or unlocking the threaded shaft. This allows you to ensure that the machine is level.  

Considering that leveling pads come in different styles and designs, you need to pick one that suits a certain application. For low-profile machines that require minimal or no adjustments, tapped-style leveling pads would be a good option. In addition, this type of mount does not come with an adjustable shaft or leveler.

This is not the case with a stud-type leveling pad in which the threaded stud and the base are a single component. The feet can be lengthened or shortened depending on the size of the machine. Due to their flexibility, studded leveling pads are ideal for machines that can be transported easily. You can also install feet casters for applications that involve extra mobility.

In addition to leveling machines, leveling pads also reduce vibrations. They stop the spread of vibrations from the machine to the floor. Special anti-vibration mounts feature a rubber pad on each foot to provide added support during applications such as milling or grinding. This prevents the machine from moving or slipping while it is operated.

Leveling pads also create a stable base for light equipment. Everything from office equipment and workbenches to furniture can be mounted on non-skid leveling pads. The rubber construction of the base adds friction and keeps the fixture stable.

Leveling pads have a special place in heavy industry, but why should anyone purchase them in the first place?

Vibrations are a normal part of operating a machine. However, the prolonged occurrence of vibrations increases the possibility of damage when left unchecked. This will also cause safety issues and accelerate equipment deterioration.

Placing the machine on solid ground in a bid to isolate the vibrations isn’t advisable. This will only lead to further damage.

Apart from spending on costly repairs and maintenance, you also put operators at risk of injury if there is a lack of vibration control. This is where anti-vibration leveling pads come in. Once installed on a machine, these parts can prevent damage to your machines and create a safer environment for onsite workers. That’s because leveling pads absorb vibrations and keep them from dispersing onto the floor.

Why is leveling equipment important?

If you manufacture machine parts, you need to make sure that your products match customer specifications. Accuracy is essential in your field, so you will need an even surface to operate a machine and manipulate a workpiece. If you are working on an uneven floor, the task will result in work that’s out of spec.

So, to optimize accuracy when handling machines such as lathes, mills, and other equipment, you need leveling pads to even out the surface. That way, you can perform an application without the risk of error.

Leveling pads can come with a variety of leveling accessories. These include plungers, washers, and fasteners that keep an object or machine from wobbling. In other applications such as mounting levelers and conveyors, tube ends are often sought.

Leveling pads are important in any industry. They can reduce the effects of wear and tear, ensure the safety of onsite workers, and reduce maintenance costs. You just need to find the right leveling devices for your production line.

At Reid Supply, we offer top-of-the-line components that are ideal for industrial machines, cabinetry, and other applications. We carry products from the world’s leading manufacturers, including J.W. Winco.

We update our collection of leveling devices with new products, so browse our catalog today and find the parts that match your requirements.

If you need more information about the other products we carry, check out our Industry News page.