Levels are measuring instruments used to validate the verticality or horizontality of an object or surface. A level is an instrument that has evolved over time, but since its invention it has been of great help and great utility in various work areas.
1. Invention of the spirit level
What is known today as the bubble level was the brainchild of the French-born writer and physicist Melchisédech Thévenot. The invention of this measuring instrument occurred in 1661 or 1662. The French used alcohol to fill the first level, fitted it with a contact lens, and mounted it on stone. This was the original version of the level.
2. Working principle of the spirit level
Is tool It consists of a small transparent tube (glass or plastic) filled with liquid (alcohol or ether), and with an air bubble inside. When the bubble is located symmetrically between the two marks drawn on the tube, it means that it is in the presence of a level surface.
Spirit level – Reading
3. Types of spirit level measurement
The levels can have a liquid-filled tube located horizontally, perpendicular to the base of the instrument, or inclined at a 45 ° angle. In this way, the instrument can be used to measure the leveling of a horizontal surface, the plumb level or the level of inclined planes respectively.
Bubble level
4. Spirit level work areas
Due to the nature of its function, a Bubble level is a tool key for carpenters, masons, blacksmiths, plumbers, architects, designers, surveyors and decorators, among others.
The Bubble level It can be used in any activity that is related to construction and many other related functions.
5. Types of spirit levels
Currently there are several types of levels designed for multiple applications. Among the most common we can mention the following: bubble level for carpentry, Bubble level for masonry, precision spirit level, line spirit level, torpedo spirit level, fixing spirit level, electronic laser spirit level, and bull’s-eye spirit level.
There are also topography levels, these allow to measure the height differences in the terrain and topographic irregularities. To achieve this they make use of a group of instruments based on the principle of the bubble level, to reproduce it at larger scales.
Masonry level
6. Materials for spirit levels
The bubble levels They are constructed of various materials, which can determine their durability and strength. For example, we can find levels made of wood, plastic or aluminum.
Other level models are made with a more advanced and stronger plastic called ABS. According to the use that you want to give the measuring instrument, you can choose one type of material or another.
Bubble level made of ABS
7. Spirit level sensitivity
This is the most relevant characteristic in a Bubble level. This determines the level of precision of the instrument. The relationship is proportionally direct: the higher the sensitivity – the higher the precision in the measurement.
This aspect of the instrument refers to how much the bubble slides in the tube, as a function of the change in the angle of the measured surface.
8. Bubble level tolerance
This characteristic indicates the tolerance to the error with which the Bubble level. Generally, this aspect depends on the design and manufacturing process of the measuring instrument.
9. Length of spirit level level
The length of the tool, also influences its precision. The longer the device is, the greater the level of precision in its measurements. But also keep in mind that a longer length can make work in hard-to-reach areas a bit tricky.
On the other hand, a long length could also induce deformation of the level, impairing the precision of the instrument.
Bubble level made of aluminum
10. Accessories and facilities for spirit levels
Some bubble levels They have accessories that make the measurements even easier.
We can find levels with a magnetic base that facilitate measurement, especially on metal surfaces. When the level adheres to the surface, it can produce more accurate results, thanks to its stability.
On the other hand, you can also find levels with fluorescent liquid that facilitate reading the results in low-light environments.
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