Spirit Levels

Explore Precision Measurement with Spirit Levels

Spirit levels, also known as bubble levels, are indispensable tools for achieving precise leveling in a multitude of tasks, ranging from simple shelf installations to ensuring the evenness of bricks in a new wall. This handheld device offers straightforward usability, providing a straightforward means to uphold accuracy on the job. Utilizing a liquid-filled vial with an air bubble inside, spirit levels feature guides on the vial that indicate when the bubble is centered, indicating a level surface. For enhanced accuracy and assurance, digital spirit levels offer a digital readout. Optimal results are achieved by utilizing the longest level that fits the surface being checked, whether on the horizontal or vertical (plumb) planes.

An inclinometer, sometimes referred to as a clinometer, serves the purpose of measuring slope angles or elevation. Similar to spirit levels, inclinometers employ various methods of measurement and can feature both analog and digital readouts. While traditional inclinometers utilize a gravity-based pendulum or spirit vial, modern electronic inclinometers utilize gyroscopes for increased precision. They are gaining popularity due to higher demands for precision, resolution, reliability, data storage, and documentation. Secure Tools offers a wide selection, including block, box section, bulls eye, straight, and torpedo levels.

When selecting spirit levels and inclinometers, several characteristics should be considered:

Accuracy: Indicated by a plus (+) or minus (-) sign.
Bubble size: Larger bubbles are better for visibility and should always remain within marked lines.
Color: The liquid inside is often colored to enhance bubble visibility, although color may fade over time.
Lines on the tube or vial: Reading lines should be clear for accurate measurement.
Construction: The vial is delicate, so sturdy and robust construction is essential, ideally with rubber ends for protection. Aluminum levels are ideal for construction sites.
Other features: Useful features may include a V-groove for fitting against pipes or magnets for hands-free usage, particularly useful for steelwork.

Professionals such as carpenters, stonemasons, bricklayers, and surveyors rely on spirit levels and inclinometers for their precision measurement needs.

Why Do Some Spirit Levels Have Two Bubbles?

Spirit levels equipped with a dual-vial system feature two vials that function whether the level is lying on its top or bottom edges, ensuring accurate measurements from different orientations.