Features and working of a laser level

A rotary laser level works by shining a rotating laser beam which is detected by a receiver that is receptive to the particular frequency of the laser light. This receiver intimates the user about the location of the detected beam; whether it is high, low, or exactly in the center. This tool is designed to be easy to use and can rotate the laser beam across the complete 360 degree circle, offering 100 per cent accuracy. The maximum rotating speed is around 300 revolutions per minute. An average laser level uses around two AAA 1.5 volts batteries.

A crossbeam laser level has a dial, through which the crossbeam laser can be rotated from 0 to 90 degrees. For an added measuring facility over a wide area, the tool is shipped with a 25 foot Quik Read Tape measure.

While a sturdy tripod enables the tool to be rigidly placed on the ground, this stand can be folded making the device portable. The wavelength of the laser light is approximately 650 to 700 nanometers (NM). The precision offered by this tool is around +/- 0.5 mm/m.

The laser square moves in incremental angles of 5 degrees, over a 90 degree layout. Mounting to wall surfaces is enabled with retractable push buttons. Better performance is rendered with a +/- 30 minute vial with leveling feet. Those laser levels having a pendulum feature a built-in pendulum lock to protect the oscillating component during transportation.

The laser beam length and brightness can be adjusted as per the tasks requirements with 3 unique spin speeds, two optional line lengths, and pointing modes along with a 90 degree plumb beam.

What to look for in a laser level

Since the intensity of the laser light is strong and has the potential to cause human damage if shone on the eye, all laser levels need to meet the specifications laid down by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a US organization governing the safety parameter for many power tools. The laser beam needs to be below a certain safe level.

Since the worker may be using the laser level to perform another task, an intrinsic adaptor keeps the user’s hands free for performing other activities while the tool is operating. Better visibility is provided with laser enhancing glasses. An electronic automatic leveling system minimizes the setup duration. Some laser levels have a magnet at the base that enables the tool to be placed on the surface such that both the bubbles are centered, which signifies that the laser is level. When the tool is mounted on a tripod, three bubble vials help to maintain the base level. The vials usually have a protective shield that shuts out the sun to facilitate easy reading. An automatic out-of-level sensor shuts down the tool, thus eliminating the chance of a wrong reading being taken. A lower power indicator intimates the user not to continue using the tool till it is recharged.

Rotary laser levels usually have a vibration minimization feature to prevent loss of accuracy due to misalignment. Rubber grips avoid tool slipping during usage.

Some reputed manufacturers of laser levels, laser squares, and accessories for these tools include Checkpoint, CST/Berger, DeWalt, Grip, Irwin, Kapro, Performance, RoboToolz, Ryobi, Stabila, and Titan.