Also known as a leveling foot or leveling pad, a leveling mount is a machinery device that’s used to level the object or machine which on which it’s installed. They feature an adjustable height, allowing users to control the height at which the machine or object rests off the floor. If you look at your washing machine or clothes dryer, you’ll probably see at least four leveling mounts on the bottom of each appliance. Not all leveling mounts are made the same, however, and it’s important for manufacturers to choose the right type for their business’s needs.
#1) Load Capacity
Leveling mounts must be capable of supporting the weight of the object or machine on which they are installed. Some leveling mounts have a load capacity of just 20 or 30 pounds, though others can support loads weighing as much as 42,000 pounds.
#2) Male vs Female
There are both male and female leveling mounts. Male leveling mounts, known as studs, are designed with a vertical screw that’s inserted into an object or machine. In comparison, female leveling mounts, known as tapped, are designed with an opening in which the object’s or machine’s existing threaded shaft is installed.
#3) Swiveling vs Stationary Base
Different leveling mounts also use different bases. Some leveling mounts have a stationary base, whereas others have a swiveling base. Using leveling mounts with a swiveling base may prove useful in high-stress applications. The ability to swivel reduces pressure and stress on the object or machine.
#4) Material
Manufacturers should consider the material from which a leveling mount is made. Stainless steel is a popular choice for leveling mounts because it offers a combination of strength, durability, longevity and protection from rust. Other materials used to make leveling mounts include galvanized aluminum, copper and bronze.
#5) Size
There are a few different size specifications to consider when choosing leveling mounts. The base size, for example, refers to the diameter of the leveling mount’s base (the bottom), while the total height refers to the leveling mount’s total height. Furthermore, leveling mounts may indicate a specific size for the hex, such as 10 mm or 20 mm.
#6) Vibrations
Leveling mounts are often used for the purpose of reducing vibrations. Computer numerical control (CNC) machines, for instance, produce strong vibrations in a manufacturing factory. Using leveling mounts on these machines, though, manufacturers can minimize vibrations. When used for this purpose, however, manufacturers should choose anti-vibration leveling mounts, which are designed with special vibration-absorbing pads on the bottom.