Introduction to Levelling
Levelling is one of the most important parts of surveying before starting the construction of roads, dams, or any other structures.
It is a branch of surveying which deals with the measurement of the elevation of the point with respect to the datum level above or below the surface of the ground. In this article, you will get to know about the Types of levelling in surveying, the advantages, and disadvantages of levelling.
What Is Levelling in Surveying?
Levelling is defined as the art of determining the relative heights or the elevations of different points on the surface of the earth so that the same may be represented on a plan or map. Levelling process mainly deals with the measurements in the vertical plane.
Levelling is a process of taking the measurement of the level of the ground in the vertical plane.
Principle of Levelling
The principle of levelling is to obtain a horizontal line of sight with respect to the vertical distances of the points above or below this line are found.
Objective of Levelling
The objectives of levelling are as follows.
- The main objective of levelling is to determine the elevation of given points with respect to some reference line which is known as Datum.
- To establish different points at required elevation with respect to Datum.
Necessity of Levelling.
- Levelling process has a prime importance before carrying out any kind of construction on site.
- Levelling is used for acquiring the data for designing of roads, canals, railways, buildings, dams, bridges, and water supply systems.
Types of Levelling in Surveying
The Types of levelling which are used in surveying are as follows.
- Barometric Levelling.
- Trigonometric Levelling or Indirect Levelling.
- Spirit Levelling or Direct Levelling.
1. Barometric Levelling
Barometric levelling is defined as the levelling which makes use of the phenomenon that the difference in the elevation between the two points which are located at different places is proportional to the difference in the atmospheric pressure at these points.
The Barometer instrument is used for measuring the difference in the elevation between the two points on the surface of the Earth is an old and well-known art.
The Barometer instrument is used to measure Atmospheric pressure at any altitude. This type of levelling is rarely used in surveying work. Barometric levelling is generally used for reconnaissance or exploratory surveys.
2. Trigonometric Levelling
Trigonometric levelling is one of the simplest process of levelling in which the elevation of the points is determined from the vertical angles and the horizontal distances which are measured on the field.
Trigonometric levelling is also known as Indirect levelling. It is the same as the length of any side of the triangle is determined from the basic trigonometric relations.
3. Direct Levelling
It is the most commonly used method of leveling. In this method, measurements are observed directly from leveling instrument.Based on the observation points and instrument positions direct leveling is divided into different types as follows:
3.1. Simple Leveling
Simple levelling is a very easy process that consists of calculating the difference in the elevation between two points. The instrument is set up between the two points so that both points are visible.
The distance between the two points should not be too greater otherwise it is difficult to take the readings from both points. The Simple levelling process is only suitable when the points are closer to each other without any kind of obstacles between them.
The procedure of the simple leveling are as follows.
- Suppose, there are two points on the ground surface let it be A and B.
- The instrument can be set up at anywhere but it is recommended to set the instrument approximately at the midway between the two points so as to eliminate the errors in the instrument.
- Then level the instrument carefully and direct the telescope towards the staff which is held vertically at point A and focus it.
- Take the readings at which the horizontal hair appears to cut the staff. Now hold the staff vertically at point B.
- Direct the telescope on the staff which is held vertical at the point and focus it properly. Take the readings on point B and care should be taken that the bubble should be at the centre while taking readings.
While carrying out the levelling process the following point should be considered.
- The care should be taken that the bubble should be in the centre while taking readings.
- If the true difference of the level between the two points is required then it is necessary that the instrument should be set up exactly mid between both the points.
- When the point is on the lower elevation the staff reading is greater and when the point is on higher elevation the staff reading is smaller.
- When the staff is held at the lower point then the staff reading will be greater and the reduced level is less. If the staff point is on the higher point then the staff reading will be smaller and the reduced level is more.
3.2. Differential Levelling
The differential levelling is used in surveying when it is required to determine the difference in the elevation between the two points which are too far apart from each other and the difference in the elevation between that two points is far great.
Differential levelling is used when there are some obstacles in levelling so that the points are not visible from one setup of the instrument. So it is necessary to set up the instrument at various locations and to work in a series of the stages.
The differential levelling process is suitable when the distance between the two points is more.
3.3. Reciprocal Levelling
Reciprocal levelling is used when it is required to find an accurate difference in the level between the two points which is considerably apart from each other.
The reciprocal levelling process is used when it is not suitable to setup the level between the two points due to any obstacle such as a river or pond etc.
The reciprocal levelling eliminates the error due to curvature and collimation. It also eliminates the error due to the line of collimation.
In this case, the instrument is set up on both sides of the bank of the river or valley and two sets of staff readings are taken by holding the staff on both banks.
3.4. Fly Levelling
Fly levelling is the process in which only the backside and foresight readings are taken and there are not any intermediate sight readings are taken in this type of levelling.
The purpose of the fly levelling is to connect the benchmark to the starting point of any project and it is used to establish the benchmarks.
The process of Fly levelling is used when the worksite is away from the benchmark. In this case, the surveyor starts the work with the back sight reading on the benchmark by setting up the instrument at a suitable point.
3.5. Profile Levelling
Profile levelling is the process of determining the elevation of the points at short measured intervals along a fixed line such as the centre line of a railway, highway, canal or sewer.
The fixed-line may be a single straight line or it make consists of a succession of the straight lines. It is also known as longitudinal sectioning.
3.6. Precise Levelling
It is a type of levelling in surveying which is used for establishing the benchmarks with very high precision at widely distant points. This type of surveying is conduct by the government agencies such as the great trigonometrical survey of India department for establishing the benchmarks.
This kind of levelling required a highly refined and modern instrument which should be operated by the skilled technical person only.
3.7. Check Levelling
It is basically a method that is used to check a series of levels or readings which have taken previously. At the end of each day work ok a line of level starting from the point and returning to the starting point is checked.
Advantages of Levelling in Surveying
There are various advantages of levelling in surveying are as follows.
- Levelling helps to determine the elevation of the points on the surface of the ground.
- It is helpful while laying the centerline of the road.
- The data which is obtained from the process of levelling helps to understand the terrain of the ground.
- Levelling is very useful for designing structures.
Disadvantages of Levelling in Surveying
There are also some disadvantages of levelling in surveying which are as follows.
- The levelling process is very time-consuming.
- Levelling process required a skilled and Technical person.
- To plot the levels on the map or sheet is a very complex process and required a lot of calculations.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) that you can include in your article about levelling in surveying:
What is levelling in surveying?
Levelling in surveying refers to the process of determining the elevation or height of points on the Earth’s surface relative to a reference datum. It involves measuring vertical distances using various techniques and instruments.
What are the types of levelling techniques used in surveying?
Levelling techniques include Barometric Levelling, Trigonometric (Indirect) Levelling, and Spirit (Direct) Levelling. Each method has its applications depending on the surveying requirements and conditions.
What are the main objectives of levelling?
The primary objectives of levelling include establishing elevations of points relative to a datum for accurate construction, designing roads, railways, buildings, and other structures, and obtaining terrain data for planning purposes.
What are the advantages of levelling in surveying?
Levelling helps in accurately determining ground elevations, facilitating the layout of infrastructure like roads, and providing crucial data for structural design. It also aids in understanding the topography and planning drainage systems.
What are the disadvantages of levelling?
can be time-consuming and requires skilled personnel to ensure accuracy. The process of plotting levels on maps involves complex calculations and can be challenging.
When is differential levelling used?
Differential levelling is employed when points are too far apart or obstacles obstruct direct line of sight between them. It involves setting up the instrument at multiple locations to overcome obstacles and accurately measure height differences.
What is profile levelling used for?
Profile levelling is utilized to determine elevations at regular intervals along a fixed line, such as the centerline of a road or railway. It provides a detailed vertical cross-section of the terrain, aiding in design and construction planning.
How is precise levelling different from other types of levelling?
Precise levelling involves establishing benchmarks with high accuracy over long distances. It requires advanced instruments and highly trained personnel and is typically conducted by government agencies for national mapping and infrastructure projects.
Why is levelling essential before construction projects?
Levelling ensures that structures are built on stable ground with accurate elevation measurements. It helps prevent issues like improper drainage, uneven surfaces, and structural instability, ensuring safety and longevity of construction projects.
What are the key considerations for conducting accurate levelling surveys?
Key considerations include ensuring the instrument is properly leveled, minimizing errors due to atmospheric conditions, and accurately recording measurements. Calibration of instruments and thorough planning are essential for reliable survey results.
