Stabila levels: laser and construction, bubble and electronic. How to choose a level

Hydro levels

They are designed to apply accurate horizontal markings on objects that are at some distance from each other. Such devices are optimal when the ceiling is being installed, the height of the future floor is determined, the foundation is being erected and a number of other construction tasks are performed in the same plane.

Design features

The hydraulic levels are made in the form of two flasks, which are interconnected by a flexible transparent tube. Each vessel has a scale in centimeters. For ease of use, it is better to give preference to a tool with rectangular containers so that they fit snugly to the surface. In addition, it is also optimal to choose a level with a large diameter tube (6-8 mm), due to which the liquid will flow faster through it.

Before use, the device must be filled with water, which should occupy about 2/3 of the volume of the container. In addition, it is necessary to prevent the formation of air bubbles inside the tube, as well as to exclude its kink so that the liquid can easily pass through it. After pouring water into the system, it is necessary to combine the vessels with each other and so that in each of the ampoules there is the same amount. In this form, the device is ready for use for its intended purpose. The length of the hydro level can reach from 5 to 25 m.

Advantages and disadvantages of hydro levels

The advantages of these devices, because of which they are often preferred, include the following qualities:

Affordable cost.
You do not need to have any special skills to use the hydro level.
They cover a large area.
Instruments are not afraid of falls and blows.
They don't need calibration.

Their disadvantages are as follows:

In most cases, an assistant is needed to apply the water level.
It is not comfortable enough to fill the device with water, which is why it is often impossible to exclude the formation of air bubbles and it is necessary to repeat the procedure several times.
The ability to use exclusively in the horizontal plane.
They are intended for use only at positive temperatures, since in frost the water present in the vessels freezes.

Taking into account all the above qualities, preference should be given to the hydro level only in special cases, since, unlike bubble models, its scope of use is much more limited, especially if the device is purchased at home for simple tasks.

Varieties

Laser

These are high-tech devices that emit a powerful light beam - a laser. In most cases, they are used when carrying out marking work inside the building. Some models with a stronger emitter can be used outdoors, but remember that the laser device is dependent on external (street) lighting: the brighter it is, the lower the measurement accuracy. When exposed to sunlight (a more intense light source), the beam of the device becomes dim and almost invisible.

This level can be used in conjunction with additional devices: a tripod or fasteners to vertical surfaces. The first element allows you to use the maximum number of functions embedded in the device. The device can be rotated 360 degrees on the tripod platform, which makes it possible to measure in a variety of directions. The presence of a tripod reduces the physical and time costs of setting up and subsequent use of the device.

Modern models of Stabila laser levels are equipped with a self-aligning pendulum mechanism.This means that within a certain range of placement, the device itself adjusts the position of the laser emitter. The mechanism rises so that the beam mark on the surface is strictly vertical.

Stabila laser levels are distinguished by high quality production, increased measurement accuracy and shock resistance. The measuring error of the beam at a distance of 200 m is not higher than 1–2 m. This type of level can be divided into subspecies: rotational, point and linear.

The point level laser generator projects only a point. It is the starting point for all subsequent measurements. The design of the mechanism of such a device allows you to project up to 5 separate points. Its other name is the axis builder. It allows you to set the direction of further measuring and marking manipulations.

A line laser level projects onto the surface of a line. Depending on the design of the mechanism and the number of splitting prisms inside it, the number of individual linear intersections generated by the device is determined. The laser sweep angle can reach a circular value - 360 degrees.

Best Bubble ADA Levels

Titan 40 Plus

ADA Instruments Titan 40 Plus

Titan 40 Plus

Small but shockproof inclinometer. A row of neodymium magnets is housed in a 40 cm case made of thick profiled aluminum with stiffening ribs. The base is milled for a non-slip surface.

The measurement is carried out simultaneously in three planes. There is a reflective layer under the capsules to see the bubble in low light.

You can use the level during construction, interior and exterior finishing works, installation of metal structures, floor coverings or tiles.

Video: Construction Level ADA Titan

Construction level ADA Titan

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ProLevel 100 ADA А00393

Universal building level for slope control in three planes. In the central part and on the left side there are bubble capsules, on the right side there is a digital display for accurate measurements according to the readings of gyro sensors with automatic calibration. The meter case contains magnets for working on metal surfaces.

The inclinometer is used in the construction of houses, cladding, decoration. Suitable for carpenters, roofers and bricklayers. The electronic components are powered by two AA batteries, providing continuous operation in measurement mode for four days. Classic bubble capsules help you work even without batteries.

ADA Titan 2000 A00390

Two-meter protractor with shock and damage protection. Designed for construction sites, withstands 15 meters drop onto concrete. Made of thick-walled profiled aluminum with anti-static powder treatment. The ends are rubberized, holes for grip and positioning are cut in the body.

Milled to work on both sides, the indentations allow you to work on difficult surfaces. There are slots for measuring the slope of square and cylindrical pipes. Bubble chambers measure angles in three directions.

Allows you to work during the installation of communications, construction of buildings, control the installation of reinforced concrete floors and slabs. It will help with complex indoor and outdoor work.

Video: Checking and adjusting the level

Checking and adjusting the level

Construction bubble level | TOP-12 Best: current rating + Reviews

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8. What to look for when choosing?

Even if you listened to our advice, and are not going to save on the cost of the building level, when buying, you should conduct an external inspection of the device and pay attention to the little things that, in fact, will tell you a lot about the serviceability and accuracy of the level you have chosen.

When choosing a level with bubble elements, be sure to pay attention to its main element - a flask. Carefully inspect its surface, it should be transparent, not have abrasions or other mechanical damage

Then check the tightness of its attachment.It must be stationary and securely fixed in the body of the level, unless, of course, you have chosen a level with the possibility of manual adjustment, in which case the bulb will be removable. Experienced users are advised to give preference to levels with rigid fixation of the flasks, since in case of falls or other mechanical damage, they are more likely to remain intact and not break. Pay attention to the stripes that are applied to the flask, they should be even and clear. It is better if they are painted from the inside, so they will not wear off with frequent use. Air bubble the same way should be clear and not delaminate at the first shake, do not buy levels with a small bubble - their error will be greater. Another important point is the level performance material. Now almost all building levels are made of aluminum, it is much lighter and more practical than wood or plastic. If you acquire a long level, then the presence of stiffening ribs is mandatory, so it will be more durable and will not bend.
After visual inspection, it is necessary to check the level for clarity of indications. This is very easy to do. Specialty stores even have special surfaces to check. If not, just use a more or less level, horizontal surface. Place the chosen level on it and mark, for example, with a marker, the position of the air bubble, then turn the level 180º and put it in the same place. The bubble should be in place of your mark. The bubble does not have to be in the center, because your surface is not perfectly flat, it just needs to return to the same position. If, after turning, the bubble will be in a completely different place, you should refuse to buy this level.

When buying a hydro level, pay attention to the shape of the vessels for liquid, give preference to rectangular shapes. The material from which the vessels are made should be clearly visible, not have abrasions, scratches, chips. The scale applied to the vessels must be clear, legible, and most importantly - the same on both containers. Do not forget to look at the hose - it should be soft, flexible, capable of quickly acquiring the necessary bends and at the same time not kinking. Do not purchase a level with a hose that is too narrow, otherwise the liquid will flow over it for a long time.
When purchasing a laser level, give preference only to well-known manufacturers, do not be tempted to a lower price, otherwise your device may quickly fail, and you will have to pay twice by purchasing another one. If you are going to use it often, or building and repairing is your way of making money, pay attention to the number of available functions. The most popular are horizontal, vertical, plumb and cross. This is the minimum set for a professional level, as a rule, there are many more. It is good if a storage case and a telescopic tripod are included with the level. The case should be durable or shockproof, inside it should have a soft protective coating and special recesses for storage elements, which should fit snugly in them and not fall out when the case turns. The telescopic tripod must be rigid, sturdy and stable. It is better if it has as few plastic elements as possible.

Following these simple rules, the level you have chosen will serve you for a very long time and will become an irreplaceable assistant in any of your endeavors. And most importantly, it will be convenient for you.

Advantages and disadvantages

Compared to hydro levels, the advantages of simple bubble levels are obvious.

No hose is required that can be easily punctured or cut accidentally.
There is no need for a U-shaped tube, the presence of which makes the level more difficult to store and transport due to its high height. The long and flat level is easier to transport in a suitcase or case with other tools.Packed in a carrying case or case with shockproof inserts, it fits into a common compartment along with long drills and drills, pry bars, wire pieces, long-handled metal scissors, etc.

Compared to laser levels, liquid levels also have advantages.

No power supply or special electronic sensors are required.
No need to deal with a strip laser beam. Its accidental contact with the eye is undesirable.
Dust insensitive.
Fog and daylight (sunlight) do not interfere with work.

The disadvantages of bubble levels are as follows.

Compared to hydraulic levels, in the hose of which you can even pour water from the tap, the loss of technical alcohol when the capsule breaks is irreplaceable.
Bubble levels, like laser levels, do not tolerate shaking, vibration, shock, and should not be dropped.

All levels are subject to mandatory verification at the factory. Using a new level gauge of any kind and variety, it is easy to adjust the old one.

Pipe levels

These devices are suitable for a limited number of applications. They are suitable for laying gas pipes, water pipes, sewer pipes, as well as round profiles and beams.

Design features

These models are a kind of bubble devices. They are equipped with several ampoules with a liquid with an air bubble, which indicates the deviation from the required direction. Their characteristic feature is the V-shape of the body and the presence of magnets.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Pipe Levels

Among their advantages are the following positive qualities:

The special design of the instruments allows for easy fixation on rounded surfaces, thereby avoiding accidental slipping.
The magnets available at the pipe levels allow fixing the device to pipes or supports that are made of metal.
They are conveniently stored due to the possibility of folding the sections.
They are lightweight.

In addition, they have the following inherent disadvantages:

Their dimensions do not exceed 40 cm.
Limited scope.
Compared to bubble levels, they cost an order of magnitude more.
Displays the slope of one specific pipe, making it impossible to find out the overall slope.

Purpose and principle of operation

The simplest bubble level includes an aluminum base (closed profile), which is a perfectly flat rectangular body with a properly selected center of mass. The latter is necessary so that the tool moves and falls as little as possible from the measured surface. 3 ampoules filled with a light and very fluid liquid (for example, alcohol), on which a central and two side marks are applied, help to track the horizontal, vertical and diagonal (45 degrees) level.

The filling of the level ampoules with liquid is approximately 95%. This is enough for the air bubble to be slightly larger than a drop of water or equal in volume to several such drops. It moves along the inner surface of the upper wall of the ampoule, without covering it all. The boundaries of the extreme marks correspond to the edges of the bubble - with a strictly horizontal position of the ampoule, it is between them.

The principle of operation of the building levels is based on the force of gravity. Under the influence of earth's gravity, a heavier and denser medium tends to take a lower position. The lighter one goes up. The density of air is hundreds of times less than the density of water - the bubble is always on top, not below or somewhere in the middle.