Spirit Levels & Angle Measurers: specifications, types

— Bubble. The most common and well-known type of building levels: an elongated bar with a flask built into it — and most often several flasks (measuring capsules), each of which is responsible for its measurement (horizontal, vertical, often — a slope of 45 °). Each flask contains a coloured liquid and an air bubble clearly visible in this liquid; if the bubble is in the middle of the flask, between the two lines drawn on it, it means that the level is level and the surface corresponds to the required position. The most compact bubble levels are less than 10 cm long, the most "large-caliber" — 3 m or more.

— Goniometer. A device designed, in accordance with the name, to measure the angles between different elements. It usually consists of two halves connected by a swivel mount and able to rotate relative to each other. For measurement, these halves must be applied close to the sides of the measured angle, so that the angle between them corresponds to the measured angle. After that, the data can be taken either from a mechanical scale located directly on the swivel mount, or, in more advanced models, from a digital display. Many goniometers are universal devices, supplemented with measuring capsules and capable of being used as bubble levels (see above).

— Inclinometer. The inclinometer, in fact, is a level with extended functionality, capable of not only d...etermining the very fact of deviation from the horizontal / vertical in a certain direction, but also measuring the specific angle of such a deviation. Outwardly, such a tool is most often similar to the bubble level described above — even measuring capsules are usually included in the design. At the same time, the electronic filling is responsible for more advanced and accurate measurements, and a digital display is a mandatory feature of a modern inclinometer (see "Functions"). But tools with rotary capsules (see ibid.) are not considered inclinometers, they are classified as ordinary bubble levels.

— Rule. In the classical sense, the rule (emphasis on “and”) is a tool in the form of a long rail used in plastering and painting to level various surfaces: plaster on walls, concrete mix during floor screed, etc. In order for the rule to be used as a level, measuring capsules can be provided in the design, as in a bubble instrument (see above). There are two key differences from the usual bubble level for such tools. Firstly, the rules as a whole are much longer — at least 100 cm, and often more. Secondly, such devices are designed primarily for leveling work, and horizontal / vertical / slope control is, in fact, an additional feature. Therefore, the functionality of the rules is noticeably more modest, they usually have only 2 capsules without any additional measuring tools. And in some models, even capsules are missing, and the use is limited to alignment. However, such “levelless” tools can also be useful in determining the horizontal / vertical: if the length of the existing level is not enough for an effective measurement, you can put a long rule under it.

— Water (hydraulic level). A specific kind of levels, the work of which is based on the law of communicating vessels. The design of the hydraulic level includes two vertical flasks, often with divisions, connected at the bottom with a long thin hose. Before use, the hydraulic level is filled with water so that it fills the hose and partially the flasks, after which each flask is placed vertically in the right place. The water level in communicating vessels is always the same — accordingly, the boundaries of the water in each flask will be at the same height from the ground. Thus, it is possible to measure the relative position of two objects, make marks at the same height, etc. At the same time, the length of the hose, even in the most modest models, is usually at least 5 m, and in the longest — 20 m or more. This allows you to take measurements at distances that are inaccessible when working with conventional levels; and hydrolevels compare favorably with laser levels in that the measurement points do not have to be in direct line of sight.

— Bubble (for door jambs). In the bubble level for door jambs, two metres are provided at once: horizontal and vertical. This type of level is used to control the position of the support rails. The main feature of the models is their compact size, because the vast majority of such metres are created in the "mini" form factor — these are small and light levels that are as easy to transport as possible. Bubble levels for door jambs have a very wide scope. They are used not only for the installation of door frames, but also for the installation of all kinds of pillars, columns, racks and other supporting structures that have a vertically elongated shape.

— Bubble (for areal surfaces). Bubble level for areal surfaces has a folding cruciform design. The level feet laid out crosswise allow you to occupy the largest possible area on the measured surface. Because of this, such levels are called "areal" (for areal surfaces). This kind of levels allows you to control the position of the surface in both horizontal and vertical planes. Bubble levels for areal surfaces make it possible to easily and quickly “beat off” surfaces when installing various equipment, furniture and other interior elements. With this level it is convenient to control the correct position of billiard tables, washing machines, refrigerators, etc. The foldable design of the level makes it possible to easily store and safely transport the measuring device.

— Bubble (for racks). Bubble levels for racks are designed to control the installation of poles, columns, partitions and many other structures. The level for racks usually has a bubble indicator in both the vertical plane and the horizontal plane. The so-called corner levels have become widespread. Such devices consist of two faces connected by a movable hinge. The vertical level metre is located along the hinge, and a horizontal bubble metre is located on each of the faces. Almost all rack levels are equipped with a magnetic holder, which makes it easy and quick to fix the device on metal surfaces. If the level is used to control wooden or concrete structures, then in this case the tool should be fixed with a tie-down strap, elastic band or cord.

— Bubble (round). Bubble rounded level is designed to control the location of surfaces in a horizontal plane. Such metres have the form of a compact hemisphere. The diameter of the average rounded bubble level is 4-5 cm, the weight is within 20 g. This type of metres has proven itself well when installing countertops, cabinets and other furniture, as well as household appliances. Bubble rounded levels are often equipped with tripods for mounting optical instruments (photo and video cameras, levels, telescopes, etc.). Advanced grade rounded levels may use a tilt scale.

— Bubble (suspended). Bubble suspended level is designed for laying a horizontal beacon between surfaces located far from each other, which are connected by a cord (cable, thread, rope). With this level, you can “beat off” the horizon when building walls, hedges, curbs and other objects. The body of the bubble type is equipped with hooks, with which the gauge is easily fixed on a pre-tensioned rope. With a bubble level, you can control the position of a horizontal beacon between objects at a distance of 10 m or more. Of course, with an increase in the distance between the extreme points, the accuracy of observing the horizon will decrease. This type of level is mainly used in those areas of construction where a high level of accuracy is not required from buildings. Suspended levels have proven themselves in landscape design.

— Bubble (frame). Bubble frame levels allow you to control the parallelism and flatness of surfaces with precision. A good frame level makes it possible to detect surface irregularities with an accuracy of 0.01 mm per 1 metre. Frame levels are widely used when checking the guides of metal-cutting machine tools. With a frame-type bubble level, it is convenient to control the evenness of the guides after their repair by scraping, milling and grinding. Bubble frame levels are considered universal metres, because the frame structure has 4 faces. That is, this level can be entrusted with the control of both horizontal and vertical surfaces. Additionally, one or more faces can have a prismatic shape, which makes it possible to put the level on a cylindrical surface, that is, on a shaft.

The main material used in the construction of the level.

— Metal. The material used in the vast majority of modern levels and other similar measuring instruments; usually we are talking about light and strong aluminium alloys, but there are other types of metal, such as steel. The key advantage of the metal, which determined its popularity, is its high strength and reliability. This is due to the fact that levels are often used in rather harsh conditions, while damage to the housing can lead to deviations in readings and make the instrument generally unsuitable for further measurements.

— Plastic. Inexpensive and relatively light material, which, however, has less strength than metal. As a result, plastic is rarely used in building levels — usually in the smallest bubble models (see "Type") up to 20 cm long.

Note that hydraulic levels (see “Type”) are not taken into account in this case — their material requirements are quite specific, as a result, the hose is standardly made of an elastic polymer, and the flasks are made of transparent plastic.

The profile of a tool indicates its shape, which is suitable for performing certain jobs.

- Trapezoidal. Applies to both levels and rules. Rules having a sectional shape of a rectangular trapezoid. This shape is considered classic for this type of instrument and the most versatile in operation, however, it may be somewhat less convenient than a rectangular one (see below).

- Rectangular. By itself, a rectangular profile is considered not as suitable for the rules as a trapezoidal one. However, these tools are often equipped with gripping holes (see "Functions"), which can make the job much easier.

- h-shaped. A profile resembling the shape of the Latin letter h (namely, a small letter), laid on its side: two parallel plates connected by a jumper. When held, the wider plate (the long “leg” of the letter h) acts as a work surface, while the narrow plate on top acts as a handle. The advantage of the h-profile rules is less weight than similar tools with a trapezoidal or rectangular profile; at the same time, although there are usually no holes for retention in the design, the own handle itself is quite convenient. On the other hand, this profile shape is more difficult to manufacture, and therefore less common.

Working length of the tool. The meaning of this parameter may be different, depending on the type (see above) and design features. So, for bubble levels, rules and inclinometers, the total length is indicated, while in sliding models (see "Functions") data are given for the maximum length, unfolded. For goniometers, on the contrary, the length is indicated by the size of the main bar, that is, in the folded state; and for hydraulic levels, a slightly different parameter is used — the length of the hose, it is given separately (see below).

In general, the longer the tool — the larger the surface it can measure or (in the case of rules) process, the more advanced and professional this model is considered. On the other hand, a longer fixture will also be more expensive and cumbersome, and in cramped conditions, problems may arise up to the complete impossibility of use. Therefore, when choosing, you need to take into account the specifics of the work and the scale of the proposed measurements. For example, for ordinary home repairs, a level of 40 – 50 cm is quite enough, for the construction of a small extension, you should choose a larger model, by 70 – 80 centimeters, and the length of high-quality bubble levels can exceed 3 m. At the same time, very small instruments of this type are also produced — from 7 cm. Such pocket levels can be useful, for example, for calibrating a geodetic instrument that...does not have its own alignment tools. And you can carry it in your pocket, bag, tool box. But the rules, by definition, are made long — from 1 m.

The length of the hose used in the hydraulic level(see "Type").

The longer the hose, the greater the distance over which the flasks can be spaced, and, accordingly, the wider the possibilities for using the tool. At the same time, long hoses are bulky, take up more space and are more difficult to control when filled properly. Therefore, it is worth choosing according to this parameter with a margin, but the margin should not be too large.

Tool width. In fact, the width of the rib corresponds to the width of the front panel — that is, the main operating panel, from which the "vertical" and "oblique" capsules are visible, on which the digital display is located, etc.

The large width adds strength to the tool and reduces the chance of deformation, but makes it difficult to use in narrow spaces: for example, a mirror capsule may be required to control the vertical in a narrow gap (see "Functions"). Note that long tools are inevitably made wide — otherwise it would be impossible to provide the necessary strength.

Tool size in thickness, from front to back. In fact, this is the smallest slit in which this fixture can be placed during measurements (although some measurements may require a mirror capsule, see "Functions"). Therefore, for work in cramped conditions, it is worth using thinner models. At the same time, note that long and heavy tools are inevitably made quite thick — to ensure strength and resistance to deformation.

The number of vial capsules for measurement provided in the design of the instrument.

For more information about such capsules, see "Type — Bubble", however, other types of instruments can also be equipped with them (except for hydraulic levels, which use a fundamentally different principle of operation). Each capsule is responsible for its own parameter; accordingly, the more there are, the more extensive the capabilities of the tool, the more parameters you can control with it. Specific options may be as follows.

— 1. The only capsule, designed, usually, to control the horizontal. This option is extremely rare, mainly in two categories of instruments — ultra-compact bubble-type pocket levels, up to 20 cm long, as well as goniometers, in which "bubble" measurement is not the main function.

— 2. A very common option in a modern measuring tool. Most often, it provides two capsules responsible for controlling the horizontal and vertical. However, one of the capsules can also be made swivel (for more details, see "Functions").

— 3. Perhaps the most popular option today. Usually two capsules are responsible for the vertical and horizontal, and the third is set to an angle of 45 ° and allows you to control the slope at this angle; occasionally there are models where the third capsule is made swivel.

— 4. This option is ty...pical mainly for levels of great length — from 150 cm or more. In such devices, the classic pair of capsules (“horizontal” and “vertical”) is duplicated on both sides of the bar. Thus, no matter which side the user puts the level on, anyway, there will be a couple of capsules in front of his eyes, and he will not have to reach for the other end of the long tool.

— 5. The five-capsule design is typical for advanced bubble levels with specific features. In such models, one “vertical” and “oblique” (45 °) capsule is usually installed, but there are three “horizontal” capsules — one is installed exactly, and the other two have a slight slope (usually 1.5% and 3.5% ). Such equipment is required infrequently — only for some special tasks — therefore this kind of levels has not received much distribution.

The presence of capsules located at a certain angle makes it clear what can be expected from the use of the level. In addition to the classic horizontal, vertical and at an angle of 45 °, there are others. For example , a capsule for plumbing work or a swivel capsule. Such a capsule, usually, is supplemented with a goniometric scale, which allows it to be rotated to a clearly defined angle and to control whether the measured surface corresponds to this angle (relative to the horizontal or vertical). At the same time, we note that this function does not turn the level into an inclinometer. It is technically possible to measure the angles of inclination using a rotary capsule, but the accuracy of such measurements is not high, and the procedure itself turns out to be quite troublesome — it is easier to use the tool originally intended for this.

The measurement accuracy provided by the level, or rather, the maximum error that can occur during measurements.

In this case, linear accuracy is meant, measured in millimetres per metre. The meaning of this parameter can be described using an example as follows: if the tool has a length of 1 m, an accuracy of 1 mm / m and shows a flat horizontal line, the difference in height between its edges will be less than 1 mm. In the case of levels, such an indicator is clearer than the error in degrees. And for goniometers and inclinometers, the accuracy in mm / m is indicated mainly for horizontal and vertical measurements; for angular measurements, the accuracy in degrees is relevant (see below).

The higher the accuracy, the better the tool, the less measurement errors it gives, however, this parameter also affects the price accordingly. Therefore, it rarely makes sense to specifically look for a high-precision level — for most work, an error of 1 – 2 mm per metre, provided by modern models, is considered quite acceptable.

Note that in the characteristics it is customary to indicate the minimum value of the error. This must be remembered in light of the fact that the measurement accuracy may vary in different modes — for example, for a folding tool (see "Functions") it is higher in the folded position.

The accuracy of angle measurements provided by the tool, or rather, the maximum error in degrees that can occur during measurements. This parameter is given for devices originally intended for measuring angles — goniometers and inclinometers (see "Type"). With such measurements, linear accuracy (in millimetres per metre) is not applicable.

The lower the error, the more accurate the instrument will be, the smaller the difference between the actual angle value and the instrument readings can be. On the other hand, high accuracy has a corresponding effect on the price. Therefore, when choosing, you need to take into account the specifics of the work — how important high measurement accuracy is for them.

Measuring range provided by an inclinometer (see "Type") with built-in laser pointer.

For more information about the pointer itself, see "Functions"; here we note that the measurement range is, in fact, the “range” of the laser, the maximum distance at which the mark from it will be visible quite clearly. This indicator is very approximate — it is indicated for optimal conditions, but in fact, the visibility of the mark is highly dependent on the weather, air purity, the freshness of the batteries in the target designator, and even the operator's eyesight. Nevertheless, the range given in the characteristics makes it possible to evaluate the capabilities of the tool.

— Scale for measuring length. Own scale for measuring length, printed on a level or other tool; Essentially a built-in line. Constantly using a level instead of a ruler does not make sense because of the bulkiness, but this function can still be useful — for example, in situations where you suddenly need to measure something, but there is no ruler at hand.

— Mirror capsule. The presence of a mirror capsule in the design of the tool. Such a capsule is, in fact, a regular vertical control capsule, supplemented with a special mirror. The usual "vertical" capsule is possible only from the front (wide) side of the instrument; thus, a tool without a mirror is useless for vertical control in cramped places, the width of which is less than the width of the rib (see above). But in the presence of a mirror capsule, the level can be inserted into the slot with a narrow side, and the position of the bubble will still be visible thanks to a special slot with a mirror installed in it.

— Hole for gripping. The presence of a special slot in the design of the level, which allows you to comfortably hold it in your hands. In devices with a large length of such slots, two can be provided, for both hands. Anyway, holding by the slot is often not only more comfortable, but also more reliable than the usual outside grip.

— Magnetic base. The presence of a magnetic base in the design of the tool. Such a...base allows you to tightly “stick” to metal surfaces, which not only reduces the risk of dropping the tool, but also has a positive effect on measurement accuracy. Usually, powerful neodymium magnets are used in the design, capable of holding the level even in the “on the ceiling” position. At the same time, this function is far from always relevant, so the same model can be produced in two versions — with and without a magnetic base.

— Impact site. The ability to use the level for impact work — in other words, to knock directly on it, transferring the blow to the material under the level. This function can be very useful when laying tiles, bricks, etc. — it allows you to trim the material with the help of blows and at the same time control the quality of laying with the help of a level. Usually, the shock platform has the form of a sloping surface on one side of the level; often it is supplemented with a rubber lining that reduces wear. In the absence of such a platform, it is impossible to knock on the instrument — you can damage it.

— Digital display. The presence of a digital display in the tool design. This function is not required for classic levels — bubble capsules are enough to control the horizontal / vertical. But for a goniometer (see "Type"), the display will be useful — it affects the total cost, but provides much greater accuracy than a mechanical scale. Inclinometers, by definition, have this function. Please note that the display requires batteries of one type or another (see "Power").

— Backlight. The presence of illumination in the design of the level. It can be both for the digital display (see above) installed in the instrument, and for capsules. This feature makes level operation independent of ambient light and will be especially useful in low light conditions — by turning on the backlight, you can easily see the values in twilight or even in complete darkness.

— Extendable design. The ability to lay out the tool, increasing its working length. This feature is found mainly in "large-caliber" levels with a working length of 3 m or more. On the one hand, in some situations, such a length is indispensable from a practical point of view, while making a clumsy tool of this size does not make sense — the design would be too bulky and inconvenient to store and transport. Folding allows you to significantly reduce the length — usually, by more than a third, for example, from 320 cm to 180 cm. On the other hand, an additional mechanism adversely affects the accuracy of measurements — often when unfolded, it is lower than when folded; and as the moving parts wear and loosen, the error increases even more. Therefore, manufacturers try to do without a sliding structure as far as possible and provide it only when it is practically impossible to do without it.

— Laser pointer. The presence of a laser pointer in the tool design. This function is found exclusively in inclinometers — the laser beam plays the role of continuing the tool, increasing the working length to 20 – 30 m (see "Measurement range"). This provides many additional possibilities: for example, you can determine the attachment point of a long inclined beam by installing an inclinometer at the location of the beam base and tilting it to the required angle — a laser mark will indicate the attachment point of the upper end of the beam.

The type of power used in the instrument. Classical bubble and water levels operate without power, so this feature is relevant mainly for goniometers and inclinometers (see "Type"), supplemented by various electronics — digital displays, laser pointers, etc. (see "Type").

Usually, replaceable batteries of one size or another are used for power supply, and most often they are not included in the kit. At first glance, this is not very convenient, but this configuration gives the user the opportunity to choose batteries at their discretion by price, quality and type (batteries or rechargeable batteries). Specific options for size can be as follows:

— AA. They are also “finger-type batteries”, a well-known and very popular type of batteries, sold almost everywhere. In levels, however, they are used somewhat less frequently than the more miniature AAA (see below), because. are relatively large.

— AAA. "Little finger batteries", a smaller analogue of the AA described above. Convenient due to relatively compact size; they are inferior to “finger” ones in terms of capacity, however, the built-in electronics of goniometers and inclinometers usually do not have high power consumption, so this drawback can hardly be considered critical.

— PP3. 9 V batteries in rectangular cases; contacts are located on one of the ends. They are used relatively rarely, mainly in professional tools, the hardware of which requires a relatively high supply vol...tage.

— CR2032. Coin batteries with a diameter of 20 mm, a thickness of 3.2 mm and a rated voltage of 3 V. They are mainly used in goniometers and compact inclinometers that do not have high power consumption even by the standards of this type of tool. Note that rechargeable batteries in this size are not produced, however, the batteries are very "long-playing", so this can hardly be called a serious drawback.

The presence of a case or cover in the tool kit.

A case is a container made of rigid material, sometimes with a carrying handle; cover — soft case. These devices are similar in purpose — they protect the instrument from negative factors such as dust, moisture, temperature changes, etc., as well as from unnecessary contacts with foreign objects (which could damage both the instrument itself and these objects). At the same time, the cases are stronger and more reliable, and the covers are more convenient to transport, because. are more compact and can even "squeeze" somewhat.

You can store or transport the tool in an impromptu package, but the complete one is usually more reliable and convenient — all the more, you don’t need to look for and select it yourself.