Spirit level torpedo ruler, also known as a torpedo level, this compact tool is essential for professionals like carpenters, electricians, and plumbers. Designed to ensure objects are level, either horizontally or vertically, it’s typically 8 to 10 inches long, ideal for tight spaces. Its name derives from its torpedo-like shape.
The ruler features a central bubble vial to determine levelness; a centered bubble indicates a level surface. Some models incorporate a measuring scale and may have a magnetic edge for hands-free use on metal surfaces.
Features:
- Compact Size: Ideal for tight spaces with a typical length of 8 to 10 inches.
- Bubble Vials: Indicates when a surface is level or plumb. Centered bubble means the surface is level.
- Magnetic Base (optional): Allows for hands-free operation on metal surfaces.
- Integrated Measurement Scale: For added utility in measuring lengths or distances.
- Durable Materials: Built to withstand daily wear and tear, often constructed from high-impact materials.
- Multi-angle Readings: Vials can show level, plumb, and sometimes 45° readings.
- Ergonomic Grip: Designed for comfortable handling and use.
- High-Visibility Vials: Ensures clear visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Grooved Bottom (optional): Helps with seating on pipes or cylindrical surfaces.
Specifications
- Length: Typically 8 to 10 inches (20.3 to 25.4 cm) but can vary.
- Material: Commonly constructed from high-impact plastic, aluminum, or a combination of both.
- Number of Vials: Typically 2 to 3 – horizontal (level), vertical (plumb), and sometimes 45°.
- Vial Material: Often made of acrylic or similar clear, durable materials.
- Vial Accuracy: (e.g., ±0.5mm/m)
- Magnetic Base: Indicates whether the level has a magnetic strip or not. If present, the type and strength of magnet might be specified.
- Measurement Scale: Specifies the range and units (e.g., 0-9 inches and/or 0-23 cm).
- Weight: (e.g., 150 grams or 0.33 pounds)
- Grip Material: Could be rubber or other non-slip materials.
- Additional Features: Grooved bottom for seating on pipes, hang hole for storage, etc.
- Operating Temperature Range: (e.g., 0°C to 40°C)
- Storage Temperature Range: (e.g., -10°C to 50°C)
Spirit Level Torpedo Ruler Application
- Carpentry: Ideal for ensuring shelves, cabinets, and other fixtures are installed perfectly horizontally or vertically.
- Electrical Work: Helps in aligning electrical fixtures, outlets, and switches with precision.
- Plumbing: Ensures that pipes are laid out with the right slope, especially for drainage.
- Tiling: Aids in making sure tiles are set level, especially during the laying of floor or wall tiles.
- Masonry: For brick or block laying to ensure a straight and level line.
- Door and Window Installation: To check the levelness of sills, frames, and the doors or windows themselves.
- Picture Hanging: Helps in ensuring that artworks, photographs, and other wall decorations are hung level.
- Metalwork: The magnetic edge can be used to check the levelness of metal beams, girders, and sheets.
- DIY Projects: Essential for home projects that require precision in alignment and leveling.
- Furniture Assembly: Assists in assembling tables, chairs, and other furniture items to ensure they’re level.
- Garden Projects: For setting up garden beds, water features, or decks to ensure they’re level or have the correct incline.