Setting Out Works

Setting Out Works

Setting out works is the process of

translation of structures, such as buildings,
culverts and bridges or dams from the plan
to the ground in their exact positions in all
three dimensions.
The task is to locate the structure on the
ground accurately using horizontal and
vertical distances and angles.
Accurate setting out is very important to
avoid problems later on.

Prerequisites

Horizontal control
Vertical control

Horizontal control

Control Points
Triangulation-Primary, secondary
and tertiary
Traversing

Control Points

Base lines

Base lines are formed connecting the

control points.
The points of the structure are located
with the help of the base lines by using
different methods.
The points near the structure have to be
permanently marked by using pegs and
nails, masonry, or a concrete structure
with an embedded metal bolt.

Base lines

Vertical control

Bench marks: A bench mark of

known elevation is obtained near
the structure by fly levelling from a
known benchmark (GTS).

Instrument and Methods

Levels, theodolites, and tape

Laying out buildings

a)

b)

Material required
A detailed plan giving the
reference or control points
Instruments depending upon the
method used

Circumscribing Rectangle
Method

Centre Line Method

Extending the centre line

Setting Out Bridges

a)

b)

The centre line length of the

bridge between two points on
either side of the waterway has to
be determined accurately.
The locations of piers that lie
between these points on the
banks have to be determined.

Locating the Centre Line

Locating the Centre Line

Locating Bridge Piers

Locating Bridge Piers

Locating Bridge Piers

Setting out of Tunnel

Setting out tunnel on ground

surface
Transfer of centre line from surface
to underground
Underground setting out
Underground levelling

Setting out of Tunnel

Transfer of centre line from surface

to underground using shafts

Setting Out Tunnels

Setting Out Tunnels Transferring levels