DIY Network

Site Surveying Tools From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-338

Guest Billy Price joins David Thiel to discuss the techniques for using a leveling laser.

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An engineer’s level (figure A) has a bubble level that has to be set manually. This means that human error could impact the results given by the equipment. This 19th century technology was used as recently as the 1970s.

The level is used in connection with a grade rod, which is basically a long measuring stick with large numbers that can be read through the eyepiece of the level from a distance (figure B). One person holds the rod as the other person looks through the eyepiece of the level to take readings.

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C
Figure D

When determining the grade of a point, a benchmark is used. A benchmark is a point with a known elevation. The elevation of the point being measured is determined by its difference from the known quantity.

The updated, automatic level (figure C) has a pendulum inside. When you get the level reading close, the level will take over and set itself. So, any person could set the level and achieve the same setting. This level has a mirror to help you set the level if you have to use the level when the tripod is extended to a height above your head. The level also has crosshairs inside the eyepiece to assist the user in taking accurate readings.

This level is typically mounted on a collapsible tripod (figure D). The legs are extended or retracted as necessary to account for variations in terrain.

This laser level (figure E) levels itself internally. A laser receiver is attached to the grade rod and is move up and down the rod until it reaches the reading point. The receiver (figure F) has both visual and audible cues to let you know when it has reached the point.

Figure E

Figure F

RESOURCES :

Roper Laser Company

Georgia Location
1171 S. Marietta Pkwy., S.E.
Marietta, GA 30060-2843
Phone: 800-283-5370
Fax: 770-422-9257

Tennessee Location
505 Carden Jennings Lane
Suite 600
Knoxville, TN 37932
Phone: 865-675-5912
Fax: 865-675-5918

E-mail: sales@roperlaser.com
Website: www.roperlaser.com

GUESTS :

Billy Price
Roper Laser Company
505 Carden Jennings Lane
Knoxville, TN 37932
Phone: 404-216-9811
Fax: 865-675-5918
E-mail: bprice@roperlaser.com
Website: www.roperlaser.com