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How to Use a Sine Plate on a Bridgeport

A sine plate that is attached to your Bridgeport mill is used to obtain the precise angle of an odd shaped tool or part. Sine plates are used to make machine and vehicle parts. To use a sine plate on a Bridgeport you need to first determine its size. Once you know the size, calculate a constant to set the angle of the sine plate.

Things You'll Need

Tape measure
Gage blocks

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length of the sine plate on the mill with the tape measure. Make a note for this length on a piece of paper, such as 10 inches.
- 2
  Measure the center of distance on the sine plate. The center of distance for your 10-inch sine plate will be 5 inches. Note this measurement on the paper.
- 3
  Determine the angle you need for the sine plate by referring to a sine table. If the angle you need isn't listed in the table, look up the constant for 5 inches. Make a note of the constant, such as 1.310946.
- 4
  Stack the gage blocks equal to the size of the constant. Position the gage blocks under the gage block roll for the sine plate. The angle for your sine plate is now set.

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