Trimble streamlines concrete pipe-grade lasers

Trimble Construction Tools recently announced the Spectra Precision DG613 and DG813 pipe lasers, a new generation of DialGrade models for gravity flow pipe lines. The new lasers are smaller in length than their predecessors, the DG511 and DG711, a feature especially helpful when setting up the units in manholes with precast inverts and tight radii. Both models are fully self-leveling over their entire grade range of -12 to +40 percent. The cross axis is also fully compensated, providing quick set up and ensuring the laser will be level without having to manually rotate it in the invert.

The DG613 and DG813 have a 500-ft. working range, providing a single setup to lay pipe from one manhole to another. The new RC803 remote provides full function control and utilizes infrared communications when in the pipe at a distance of up to 500 feet. For “over-the-top” setups, the remote utilizes radio communications at a distance up to 430 feet. Flexible power options for the pipe lasers provide 40 or 50 hours of operation, respectively, with NiMH rechargeable or alkaline batteries. The latter can be used directly in the laser without a separate pack. A vehicle outlet 12V charger is available for the NiMH batteries.

A large LCD with a graphical interface allows users to view the display when the laser is in a manhole. All functions are controlled via a graphical, user-friendly menu. The same graphical user interface is on the RC803 remote control.

Both models incorporate new features to save time and money, Trimble Construction Tools notes. To reduce costly rework, the Line Alert will cause the beam to blink to notify the operator that the setup has been disturbed. Using the Line Set function, the beam can be moved up to 100 percent grade in a few seconds and then adjusted left or right to perform first day set in a short trench. In addition, both models have Line Scan functionality, allowing users to quickly align the beam to the pipe laying target’s center, which is placed in the last piece.

The DG813 has advanced features when used with the SF803 Spot Finder beam detector. Spot Align will automatically align the DG813’s beam to the center of the Spot Finder, and can be used for an accurate and quick setup; to orient the beam towards the next manhole when used in a trench, through the pipe; or, when doing an “over-the-top” setup. Spot Match is used for checking that the pipe has been installed to the correct grade or for finding an existing pipeline grade value. This can also be used to calculate the grade between manholes. SpotLok is used to lock the beam in a desired position for applications when the beam could be subject to environmentally caused drift such as dramatic temperature changes in the pipe or air stratification. Spot Search is used to align the Spot Finder to the beam over long distances out of the trench. www.spectralasers.com

DG813
DG613