Level tripods: description, types, tips for choosing

Construction and repair work is a complex of complex measures, the implementation of which requires maximum accuracy and the availability of specialized equipment. In order to take measurements or accurately determine the distance between objects, builders use a level. The operation of this device implies the complete elimination of fluctuations during the measurement work. The presence of even a minimal unplanned deviation can lead to distortion of the received data and errors in subsequent calculations. To prevent this situation, specialists install levels on special supports - tripods.

A level stand (rod) is a special support or holder, which makes it possible to fix the device as accurately as possible in the desired position to obtain reliable results. Most builders call this device not a tripod, but a tripod. It is an irreplaceable device during the operation of laser levels and levels.

Scope of universal geodetic holders:

• control over the construction work;
• measurement of the parameters of buildings under construction;
• construction of linear structures: power lines and communication pipelines;
• determination of the parameters of deformation and shrinkage of building objects.

Elevating tripod work:

• marking the surface before installing the floors;
• determination of the location of the suspended ceiling frame;
• determination of the passage of communications and the location of attachments.

The leveling stand consists of the following elements:

• base;
• tripod head.

Budgetary versions of devices have a non-separable design, but different types of heads can be installed on professional geodetic tripods for fixing various types of equipment. An integral part of the structure is the screw with which the device is attached to the bracket.

To give maximum rigidity to the product, the designers have provided transverse brackets. Depending on the model, the base can be triangular, rectangular or spherical.

Universal devices have a slightly different design - a tripod, in the center of which there is a retractable tripod with a worm gear. This element makes it possible to change the direction of the central bar. The retractable element allows you to adjust the height of the tripod together with the "legs" of the device.

High demand for level tripods forced manufacturers to develop several of its types.

• Universal geodetic - a specialized device that has a thread for fixing the equipment. Advantages - universal purpose, large working platform, reliable fixation, the ability to obtain accurate data and build clear lines, you can work both indoors and outdoors.
• Elevational - a reliable device that allows you to use heavier levels. Purpose - regulation of the working height, construction of planes.The design feature is the use of a crank stand with a handle, which makes it possible to adjust the lifting height of the device as accurately as possible.
• Photo tripod - a lightweight device that is used in conjunction with rangefinders and a laser level. Advantages - light weight, mobility, the ability not only to change the location of the device, but also to correct the angle of inclination (when marking inclined parts). The disadvantage is the impossibility of outdoor operation due to the presence of rubber pads on the legs, low weight, which is not able to withstand drafts and wind.

The principle of operation is to move the laser device up and down the telescopic tube. To fix the bar, spacers are used, fixed between the ceiling and the floor. Distinctive features are the manufacture of aluminum, the presence of a bright color, in which black and orange stripes alternate. This color scheme makes it possible to work not only in the daytime, but also in the evening. The height of the device depends on the model of the device and can be up to 3 meters, but the size of some samples can reach even larger values. Advantages - light weight, ease of transportation.

In order to choose a high-quality and reliable device, it is necessary to take into account the recommendations of specialists. The main criteria when choosing a tripod are the weight of the product, the height of the support tube and the type of equipment used.

The weight of the device directly depends on the type of raw materials used, the following materials can be used during production:

• steel;
• wood;
• aluminum alloys.

The most popular and practical are wooden tripods, which do not interfere with the operation of laser beams in high temperature conditions and in areas with direct sunlight. For work in conditions of increased complexity, experts do not recommend purchasing aluminum products, which, with thermal expansion, can change the received data.

For ease of movement, you need to choose those models that are packed in a case or case. For very large appliances, a carrying strap is provided on the case, which has a length adjustment function. It will be useful to have overhead rubber pads for the legs, which will prevent mechanical damage to the floor covering in the room. The most demanded devices are devices with a height of 100 cm to 150 cm.

For private use, it is better to purchase compact tripods that are light in weight and size. The mass of one copy does not exceed 4 kg. When buying equipment, you need to pay attention to the fact that a special screw comes with it, with which the device can be securely fixed. If you plan to use a total station, theodolite or laser level, then experts do not recommend purchasing this device.

Universal devices have a wider range of applications and are suitable for almost any equipment. The weight of the product ranges from 5 kg to 7.5 kg, which makes the tripod more stable and reliable.

Professional builders recommend paying attention to elevation devices that have a lifting mechanism. This device is indispensable for marking walls and ceilings, and some models allow the equipment to be raised to a height of more than 3.5 meters.

Considering all of the above recommendations, novice builders should remember the following rules:

• to obtain the most accurate results, you need to purchase heavy and stable equipment;
• for quick results on several objects, it is better to use lightweight aluminum instruments with clips;
• the level with a compensator can be installed on any stand.

Despite the high cost of the products, they have a high level of reliability and durability, which will fully recoup the cost of the device within several years. If the work is of a periodic nature, and the device is used only for personal purposes, then you can limit yourself to buying a Chinese device, which has a much lower price and, with infrequent use, can last for many years.

Construction measuring instruments are high-precision equipment, the operation of which requires knowledge and professional skills. Long and painstaking work of engineers has led to the emergence of such equipment as a level, the correct operation of which is impossible without a reliable and well-chosen tripod. It is this equipment that determines the accuracy and truthfulness of the readings and the quality of the work performed. Before buying a holder, you must carefully study all the recommendations of experienced specialists and choose exactly the tripod that matches the equipment in use.

An overview of ADA aluminum level tripods with screws awaits you further.