Types of Levels Used in Leveling

Following are the types of different levels used for leveling in surveying:

1. Dumpy Level
Dumpy level is the most commonly used instrument in leveling. In this level the telescope is
restricted against movement in its horizontal plane and telescope is fixed to its support. A bubble
tube is provided on the top of the telescope

2. Y Level
Y level or Wye-level consists y-shaped frames which supports the telescope. Telescope cane be
removed from the y-shaped supports by releasing clamp screws provided. These y-shaped frames
are arranged to vertical spindle which helps to cause the rotation of telescope
3. Cushing’s Level
In case of Cushing’s level, the telescope is restricted against rotation in its longitudinal axis and
it is non-removable. But, the object end and eye piece end can be interchangeable and reversible.

4. Tilting Level
Tilting level consist a telescope which enabled for the horizontal rotation as well as rotation
about 4 degree in its vertical plane. Centering of bubble can be easily done in this type of level.
But, for every setup bubble is to be centered with the help of tilting screw.

The main advantage of tilting level is it is useful when the few observations are to be taken with
one setup of level.

5. Cooke’s Reversible Level

Cooke’s reversible level is the combination of dumpy level and y-level. In this instrument, the
telescope can be reversed without rotation the instrument. Collimation error can be eliminated in
this case because of bubble left and bubble right reading of telescope.

6. Automatic Level
Automatic level is like the dumpy level. In this case the telescope is fixed to its supports.
Circular spirit can be attached to the side of the telescope for approximate leveling. For more
accurate leveling, compensator is attached inside the telescope.