Measuring Slope

[bryankloos]

Hey All,

Whats the best way to measure slope of tubing in the field?
Is there a tool that one can use to ensure lines are in fact sloping downward?

Thanks,

Bryan

[DrTimPerkins]

There are several ways. A small hand-held level or clinometer will work. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Johnson-Hand-Held-Sight-Level-80-5556/202911589

Many cell phones now include a level function or you can get an app that will do it. iPhones include a "Measure" app that has a level, but I tend to use the "Theolodite" app more often.

Check this MapleTrader thread http://mapletrader.com/community/showthread.php?5088-Sight-Level

[maple flats]

When I was first starting with tubing I used a site level much like the one Dr Tim links to, but having quite flat ground it needed help. I actually have 2 laser levels, but for tubing layout they are too hard to use, too time consuming. I then took an old camera tripod and made an adjustable holder for the site level. It had an adjustment screw to raise or lower the stadia line. It worked much faster, especially when I had a helper. I would set up where I could see a fairly long ways where the tubing was to go. Then on each tree in the line of sight I (or better, a helper) put a plastic ribbon on the trees to indicate elevation. In areas where I could get near 2% slope that was not usually needed, but under 2% it was much better. Sometimes the ribbon was tied at the desired elevation, but more often it was at a distance above or below the desired elevation. Then we used a tap measure to set the desired elevation. I don't think I ever got any slopes flatter than 1%, but had several between 1% and 1.5% using that method.
i now have a level app on my phone, I use that to re-adjust mainlines when necessary.

[johnallin]

There are several ways. iPhones include a "Measure" app that has a level, but I tend to use the "Theolodite" app more often.]

After reading your post; I downloaded that app. At $7.99 that's a lot of bang for the buck! Now I just have to get used to carrying my phone all the time...

[Chickenman]

A poormans method is to use a level. The second set of lines on the bubble represents 2% slope used for drains and gutters etc. If you can support it against or on something you can sight down the top if it to a fixed point like another tree and get close.

[Sugarmaker]

I used a modified string level that had clips to hang on the tubing. one end was higher than the other so the buble would be centered. Crude but it worked! I might have a picture on here from way back when!
Regards,
Chris

[VT_K9]

After reading your post; I downloaded that app. At $7.99 that's a lot of bang for the buck! Now I just have to get used to carrying my phone all the time...

I have used Theodolite for a few years now. It is a great app for this. I use the 4x zoom to help with lag placement for the other end of the mainline wire. We just finished a 800' mainline run the other day. I need to run some wire high on telephone poles we installed. I'll use it again for that. I used to double check with a level, but I have confidence in the app.

Mike

[HondoLane]

I too downloaded the app after reading this. This year will be the first time running tubing. Here is a question for those who have used the app... how do you calibrate it? I was playing around with it and may have calibrated it the wrong way!!

[Brian]

https://www.mcmaster.com/19225a62 I use a sight level like this but it is a cst/berger. I have used mine for about 20 years now. This is what Glen Goodrich taught me to use.

[mol1jb]

I use a site level as well. Cheap and effective