Transit level how does it work

The builder level is cheap and easy to use as compared to the more expensive transit level, and since it has more parts it can be a little more complicated to use, We prefer the transit level because it levels at both horizontal and vertical angles. Your email address will not be published. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Additional menu. Why is the transit level used? The level is used for surveying as well as to determine angles and positions.

This level is used for leveling instruments and locate points in a horizontal plane. What is the purpose of leveling? This can sometimes be a nail head in the top of a stake, or a manhole cover, or some other reference point that will be notated on the survey. There is a measurement that is attributed to the height of the reference point, found using a GPS and this will be given to you by the surveyor. Once you find the reference point, you need to place the bottom of the leveling rod at that point and look through the scope of the transit and write down the distance between the reference point and the plane set by the transit.

There are many different graduations on vernier scales, depending on the level of accuracy needed. When preparing to set up a transit level, it is important to make sure you have the right tripod.

As stated earlier, tripods have different types of heads. Once you have found the correct head for your instrument, you can start your set up. If the instrument is not level at all points, the final check must be done again until the bubble is centered at each point. If the bubble is still not being centered, there may be damages to the leveling instrument. After making sure your instrument is level at all leveling points, the next step is focusing the transit level.

Transit levels are very similar to builder's levels. When the telescope of a transit level is locked into place, it works almost exactly like a builder's level. There is one main difference between a transit level and a builder's level. A transit level, when not locked into place, can tilt only vertically and has a very limited range of mobility. This differs from the builder's level which can move horizontally in a complete circle. Transit levels, with their vertical movement mechanism, are great tools for measuring vertical angles.

Transit levels are also preferred over other leveling tools for establishing straight lines as well as turning angles. Visit our how-to guides on levels and tools for more how-to information. What are the Uses of a Transit Level? Parts of a Transit Level The basic setup of a transit level consists of the actual transit level, a tripod base , a tape measure, and a calibrated rod. Graduated Leveling Vial The graduated leveling vial is also known as a spirit level. Base Plate The base plate of a transit level is the area in which the level is attached to the tripod.

Alidade The alidade is the entire upper part of the transit level. Verniers A vernier scale is a scale that moves around the main scale and is used to determine angular measurements that the original scale cannot read. When using a threaded tripod head mount: remove the threaded protective cap and set aside. Unthread the level from the case mount and screw on the tripod head.

After being connected to the tripod head, thread the protective cap onto the case mount. How to Read a Transit Level Locate the eyepiece. This can be turned to bring the crosshairs into focus.

Up the scope of the level is the leveling vial. The knob at the end of the scope is the focusing knob. The horizontal graduated circle is the circular guide marked with degrees, used for reading horizontal angles. The horizontal tangent knob is just above the horizontal graduated circle, used to adjust left and right. How To Use A Transit. Transit Setup 1.

All Rights Reserved. Transits Checking Transit Accuracy 1. Move transit to another spot on the line and take readings and mark both rods again. At feet, the error would be 2 times as much.