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Magnetic spirit levels come in multiple types. Each of these types suits particular needs and offers unique benefits. Here are the most common types of magnetic spirit levels.
Box Levels
Box levels are named after the rectangular shape of their profile. These levels work by placing the horizontal and vertical vials in perpendicular position and, hence, forming a box. One of the main features of this type is its durability and strength. Such features make the box levels ideal for heavy-duty applications.
The uses of these levels include checking the alignment of large structures, laying out forms for concrete work, and installing beams and trusses. Other than construction work, mechanical workers also use magnetic spirit levels to align machinery and other mechanical components.
Line Levels
People also call line levels string levels. These levels are simple tools that consist of a small spirit level that is suspended on a taut line or string. Line levels are quite handy and lightweight, making them easy to carry.
The primary use for line levels is in grading and excavation projects where long distances need to be checked for level. Other than construction, the line levels are also used in landscaping, such as when installing walkways, driveways, or patios.
Torpedo Levels
Torpedo levels are compact levels that, most of the time, come with three vials set in different orientations. This feature allows the user to measure in three planes: horizontal, vertical, and 45 degrees. The size also fits in a magnetic base that allows for hands-free operation. These features make Torpedo levels ideal for working in tight spaces.
Due to their size, these levels are ideal for pipefitters, electricians, and other professionals who work in confined spaces. These levels help in aligning pipes, beams, and other structures in close quarters.
Pole Levels
As the name suggests, pole levels are spirit levels that attach to leveling poles. These levels allow surveyors to achieve precise measurements over long distances. Most pole levels are designed to be lightweight but durable enough to withstand field conditions.
Pole levels are mainly used in land surveying for setting benchmarks, controlling grades, and establishing horizontal planes in construction projects. These levels are also used extensively at sites that require accurate elevation and grading information.
Digital Levels
Digital levels are the advanced alternatives to the spirit levels that use electronic sensors to measure the level. These levels are often more accurate than the traditional bubble levels. Digital levels usually come with LCD screens that display level messages and measurements. These improvements enhance ease of use.
These levels are a preferred choice in applications where precision is very crucial. Such applications are often found in aerospace, manufacturing, and high-rise construction. Other than construction, digital levels are also useful in scientific fields where precise measurements of angles and planes are needed.
Magnetic spirit levels have numerous functions in industrial settings. It is, therefore, important to understand the common applications and benefits. Below are the common uses and advantages of magnetic spirit levels.
Construction and Structural Engineering
In construction and structural engineering, magnetic levels are crucial in ensuring structural integrity. They help the users during the installation of beams, columns, and other load-bearing elements. These levels aid in safeguarding that structures are built level and plumb for safety and stability.
HVAC and Plumbing Systems
In plumbing, HVAC, and electrical wiring installations, magnetic spirit levels ensure proper alignment and slope. For instance, in plumbing, a slight deviation in pipe slope results in improper drainage. Magnetic levels help avoid these issues by ensuring that pipes are correctly angled.
Machine and Equipment Setup
In manufacturing plants, equipment levels and machine alignment are very crucial. If equipment is not level, it leads to uneven wear, operational inefficiencies, and safety hazards. Magnetic levels help with the precise leveling of machinery, ensuring smooth operation and product consistency.
Road and Pavement Construction
When constructing roads, pavements, and other outdoor facilities, engineers use magnetic spirit levels for proper grading and drainage. Adequate drainage is important in preventing water accumulation, which causes damage to road infrastructure.
Solar Panel Installation
Magnetic levels are commonly used in the renewable energy field. Specifically, they are often used in solar panel installations to ensure that panels are positioned at the right angle for optimal sunlight exposure. The right angle maximizes energy capture and efficiency.
Final Quality Inspections
Many industries incorporate quality control checks in their operations. Levels are one of the tools that come in handy during these inspections. Using a magnetic level in the final quality inspection helps in identifying any deviations from the required standards. This practice ensures that products meet the desired specifications and reduce the risk of faulty items being deployed into the market.
Magnetic spirit levels come with a wide range of features. These features often affect performance, ease of use, and durability. Below is a detailed look at some of the key features of these levels.
Magnetic Base
What really distinguishes the magnetic levels from other levels is the magnetic base. The magnetic base gives the magnetic level a hands-free operation on any ferrous surface. This feature is beneficial in preventing slippage, and, therefore, more accurate results are achieved.
Vials and Bubble Leveling System
The vials are usually constructed from crystal glass. This is to ensure maximum visibility of the bubbles. Also, most magnetic spirit levels feature a spirit or bubble inside each vial for level indication. This is a classic and accurate leveling system.
Durable Construction Materials
Many magnetic levels are constructed from extruded aluminum. The aluminum alloy, in this case, provide lightweight yet very strong and durable levels. Magnetic levels can endure very harsh working conditions, including construction sites.
Multiple Measuring Faces
These levels often have more than one measuring face. This allows users to measure in horizontal, vertical, and 45-degree angle positions. Having multiple faces greatly increases the versatility of the spirit levels.
Shock-Resistant
Magnetic spirit levels are usually designed to be shock-resistant. Thus, they can withstand drops and other impacts. This feature is critical in ensuring the longevity of the tool, especially in dynamic working environments.
End Caps
Magnetic spirit levels feature end caps for increased protection and for absorbing shock when the levels are dropped. Side protectors also enhance the strength and durability of the levels, especially when working in harsh environments.
Leveling Tubes
These tubes are often constructed from acrylic glass. These glass tubes are designed to provide optimum visibility. They are responsible for trapping the air bubble in a very precise position. This position is typically at the center of the tube to ensure accurate leveling.
Knowing the right factors to consider when purchasing magnetic levels, helps in getting the best products for the intended use. Fortunately, there are certain factors that can assist when purchasing these instruments in bulk. Consider these factors when choosing the suitable magnetic spirit levels.
Accuracy and Precision
Accuracy is a vital factor to consider when purchasing magnetic spirit levels. An accurate level ensures consistent results, while a precise one minimizes small errors. Both factors are important for quality work in construction and other industries that require these levels.
Material and Durability
Magnetic spirit levels are usually made from aluminum. This material offers a good combination of toughness and lightweight properties. On the other hand, rare earth magnets are the strongest and most efficient magnets that will hold the level securely in place. Therefore, endurance and strength directly impact the effectiveness and safety of operations.
Range and Application
It is necessary to consider the application of the spirit levels to determine their suitable range. In construction, longer levels of 24 inches to 48 inches work best for larger projects. On small projects, a short level of 9 to 12 inches is more practical. Choosing the right range helps in achieving accuracy in measuring and leveling.
Bubble Vial Quality
Taking quality into account helps in ensuring visibility and center position of the bubble for accuracy. So, the best magnetic levels are those that have more than one vial. These vials allow for horizontal and vertical leveling at the same time.
Ease of Use
The factors that contribute to the ease of use of the magnetic spirit levels are their weight and grip design. Levels that have been designed with user comfort in mind reduce hand fatigue and increase efficiency. These factors are crucial, especially when using the levels for extended periods.
Cost and Brand
Considering brand and level costs is a good strategy for getting a quality product for a specific budget. While pricing is an important factor, a reputable brand often ensures quality in the product’s accuracy, durability, and overall performance.
Yes, these levels are ideal for working in the open, even under windy conditions. This is because the magnetic base securely attaches the level to any steel surface. This secure attachment helps in resisting movement even in windy conditions that may cause tipping over the level.
There is a perception that magnetic levels are not as accurate as traditional bubble levels. This is not true because these two types of spirit levels are equally accurate. The only difference is that the magnetic spirit levels have the magnetic base, while the spirit levels do not have it. Both levels use the same principle of the air bubble finding the center of the tube for accurate leveling.
No, a magnetic level cannot be used on uneven surfaces and achieve accuracy. It should always be placed on a flat and level surface to work correctly. If it is placed on an uneven surface, it will yield inaccurate results. So, if the surface is not flat, one should find a flat and even surface to use the magnetic level. Alternatively, one can correct the surface to make it level and flat.
Magnetic spirit levels are designed to work properly in harsh conditions. Thus, dust, debris, and moisture cannot damage or affect their performance. Also, strong shocks and collisions do not affect their structure or functionality because they are designed with protective end caps.
Magnetic spirit levels have varying degrees of accuracy depending on the model and manufacturer. But on average, most of them have an accuracy of +/- 0.05 inches per 1 foot. Some high-end models can achieve accuracy levels of +/- 0.02 inches per 1 foot. These specific levels are more often used in professional and industrial applications, where precision is very crucial.
