User Guides
×
Our promise to you: Buy from Laser Levels Online, safe in the knowledge that you have paid the best price and that each and every product will have been expertly checked by specialists who are able to provide you with free help and support by phone.
Getting “incorrect levels”, “random positions” or “out-of-level”? Click Here.
Site Refraction IssuesNumber 1 Reason Customers Incorrectly Report Issues With Their Laser.
Not every User is aware that laser levels, both Rotary and Line lasers can be affected by reflective surfaces on the worksite. Customers report to the Service Centre that the detector (laser receiver) is faulty because it is picking up the laser beam in random positions. Terms like “incorrect levels”, “random positions”, “out-of-level” or “Detector not picking up the beam correctly” are used.
“Refraction” is the phenomenon where light is transmitted but moves direction when it passes
from one medium to another e.g. through air then glass or water. This is why when you shine a torch at a window the beam
bounces off to another position. In the same way, this refraction can affect the correct setting out, when using laser beams.
An easy example to understand is if, for example, a rotary laser is operated with a double-glazed window behind it. The true level position can be refracted and the deviation can be appreciable, even over small distances. In some instances, a double beam position can occur and the wrong level marked.
It is also easy to forget that the laser has in many instances a 500m range with a 360-degree coverage. We routinely hear the statement "I am in the middle of nowhere - and there is nothing around me". To then find the Excavator or Van is parked 10m behind the user with a huge glass windscreen. The cause of the refraction also may not be on your site but the neighbouring property, across the street or in the next field.
Its too easy to conclude the laser is faulty rather than understanding what site conditions can cause this phenomenon. We have an additional
Data Sheet to describe this more fully.
However, it is very easy to eliminate the problem by making sure that laser beam reflections cannot be bounced back to the detector. As an example, if your site has large glass windows, make sure you set-up the laser level so that when you hold the detector, the glass is behind you and the detector, so it cannot reflect on to it.
Basically lookout for & position your laser, being aware of all reflective surfaces like glass and shiny wet surfaces.