Spirit levels are one of the most common tools used by carpenters, plumbers, and other tradespeople for measuring angles and ensuring accuracy in construction projects. But how exactly do these precision instruments get made?
In this article, we’ll explore the process of making spirit levels from start to finish. We’ll discuss the materials used, manufacturing processes involved, and quality control measures taken along the way – all with an eye toward understanding what it takes to make a reliable instrument that can be trusted to provide accurate measurements. So let’s take a look at how spirit levels are made!
The Process of Making Spirit Level
To begin the process, raw materials such as aluminum or plastic are cut and shaped into a vial housing. This is then machined to create grooves for the spirit level’s bubble vials – which are what allow the instrument to measure angles. The bubble vials themselves are made of glass and filled with a liquid containing particles that move according to gravity. Finally, magnets are added around the edges of the housing to make sure the bubble remains centered in its groove.
Once all these components have been assembled together, they need to be tested for accuracy and precision. This is done by using a calibration machine that measures differences between two points on a spirit level’s vial housing at various angles. If any discrepancies are found, the manufacturers can make adjustments to ensure that the instrument is properly calibrated.
Finally, before it’s ready to be shipped out, each spirit level is subjected to final quality control tests, such as checking for cracks or dents in its vial housing. Once all of these steps have been completed and approved, the spirit levels are packaged up and sent off to their new owners!
How Exactly do Spirit Levels Work?
Spirit levels use a small bubble of air surrounded by a clear liquid, usually alcohol or glycerin, to indicate if an object is level. The bubble is trapped between two thin glass plates that are sealed together with wax and mounted into the frame of the spirit level.
The bubble is always centered in the middle of the spirit level when it is perfectly level. If one side of the spirit level is higher than the other, it will move off-center towards whomever end is higher. This makes it easy for people to identify which end needs to be adjusted up or down in order to make whatever they’re building perfectly level.
The two glass plates also contain several lines etched onto them, which create reference points for the user. These lines are usually evenly spaced, although some spirit levels have more or less depending on what they’re being used for.
Another important feature found in most spirit levels is a magnet to help keep the bubble centered. This allows users to quickly adjust their work even after it has been moved around before it’s set into place.
Spirit levels come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing people to easily find one that fits their specific needs. They also range from basic models with just one vial up to more advanced versions with multiple vials for checking different orientations at once.
Conclusion
So now you know how spirit levels are made – from raw materials being cut and shaped into a vial housing right through to quality control testing and packaging. The process may involve several different stages, but ultimately it results in an accurate tool that anyone working with angles can rely on. So go forth and measure away!
