Leica Rugby 800 - Toughest Laser in the market

Leica Geosystems, renowned manufacturer of precision measuring and leveling, has recently launched a new, rough, tough and rugged laser level.

The Leica Rugby 800 Series is the first in a completely new line of construction lasers. It is the toughest laser in the market today and has the highest environmental standard for water and dust protection, meaning that it never breaks or has any down-time.

For many years, Leica Rugby rotating lasers are recognized to belong to the most reliable family of construction lasers in the market. The new Leica Rugby 800 construction lasers are designed from the ground up and even surpass their predecessors.

The flagship of the four models being introduced to the market is the versatile Leica Rugby 840, a multipurpose horizontal/vertical laser for all leveling, aligning and squaring applications with an automatic calibration feature to ensure highest accuracy and reliability.

The Toughest Construction Lasers in the Market
The Leica Rugby 800 series are the only lasers in the industry with a military grade certification (MIL-STD 810G) and IP68 rating. The robust design makes them the toughest in the market today to deliver reliable and accurate results even in the harshest jobsite conditions.



Intelligent Automatic Positioning
With the touch of a button, the intelligent ‘Smart Targeting’ functionality allows construction workers to tie-in slopes (in single and dual axis) and to align the beam in vertical automatically. Once the laser is setup on the starting point the second point can be positioned automatically by using the new Leica Rod Eye laser receiver without the need to walk back to the laser or using a separate remote control.



Error-free Real-time Monitoring and Correction of the Laser Plane
With ‘Smart Lock’ the laser plane is continuously monitored in real-time eliminating errors, giving users the necessary peace of mind. Should the laser plane move out of tolerance, the laser will indicate the movement with an alarm. This functionality is ideal for batter board and façade applications that require a fixed installation of the system and the laser plane to stay exactly in place all day long.

Additionally, the new ‘Maximum Temperature Stability’ technology always provides the highest accuracy throughout the day over the entire working range without drifting.

Charge Anywhere Anytime with Solar Power
The new generation of Lithium-Ion battery is unbreakable. Throughout the new Leica Rugby family, the battery packs (Alkaline and Li-Ion) are interchangeable and can be charged anywhere anytime on site. The new Leica Rugbys also set a new standard in environmental friendly energy management using a solar panel to run and charge the laser that can be simply attached to the carrying case.

Lifetime Manufacturer’s Warranty
Through the Leica Geosystem’s PROTECT warranty scheme, the Leica Rugby 800 series of laser levels are protected for 5 Year NO Cost period includes the repair or replacement of all defective parts including labour time, adjustment and calibration. Should any knockdown occur within two years, all repairs to the internal self-levelling assembly will be covered under the warranty policy.




Click for more information on Leica's range of Leica Rugby 800 laser level

Radiodetection CAT4 and Genny4 Network Rail Approved

Radiodetection’s recently launched Radiodetection C.A.T4 and Genny4 cable avoidance tools, together with a wide range of their accessories, have gained authorisation for use on the UK’s national rail infrastructure, managed by Network Rail.

In order for an instrument to be utilised in and around the United Kingdom's rail infrastructure, Network Rail has to grant product acceptance.

The product acceptance process provides assurance to Network Rail that products when accepted for use on or about our infrastructure are:
a) Safe
b) Fit for purpose
c) Do not export unacceptable risks to Network Rail infrastructure


Detect more - faster, smarter, safer
The new Radiodetection Radiodetection C.A.T4, Radiodetection eCAT4 and Genny4 have been designed to help operators find more buried utilities, more quickly and more safely. Providing a mix of familiarity and innovation, Radiodetection’s new range of Cable Avoidance Tools help operators to detect smaller and deeper cables, faster.

Radiodetection eC.A.T4 series products are designed to assist in locate task management, featuring automatic data logging key locate parameters at one-second intervals, calibration due warnings and SWING, which warns operators of incorrect usage patterns.

Advanced features extend locate capabilities - Dynamic Overload Protection, allows operators to locate in electrically noisy areas, such as beneath overhead power lines trackside, while Avoidance Mode lets the operator check an intended excavation area for Power, Radio and Genny signals, and pinpoint located utilities in a single scan.

Measure Moisture in Caravans and Motorhomes

How to measure moisture within caravans and motorhomes is a common question which we receive all year round. After all, the purchase of a caravan is an investment for future holidays and owners want to keep them in their best condition.

Each winter, owners should follow a winter care procedure to help store the unit over winter. But moisture persists all year round, especially during a wet summer.

Like a home, atmospheric moisture levels will increase in line with exterior moisture levels, too high and condensation occurs. Faulty seals and broken exterior shells will allow moisture to enter.

A caravan will be manufactured from a range of materials, including wood, foam and fabric which can absorb moisture. When moisture levels reach to high, water will then be expelled into the air or through contact with other materials.

Some materials will be covered with a coating providing a durable surface and an enhance quality finish (cupboards and doors). This provides a protective covering, stopping water entering the underlying material, but if moisture is present, the owner will be unaware until the coating peels off.

In fact, the only time an owner may be aware of potential moisture issues, is when the level is too high, causing damage to internal components. If you can see or feel moisture, then it’s too high!

Electronic moisture detectors can ‘detect’ moisture levels at a lower level than with touch and sight. The earlier moisture is detected, the easier it is to rectify. So it is prudent to check moisture levels with an electronic device.


Two Types of Moisture
As mentioned, there are two types of moisture, airborne and material based.

Airborne is the moisture contained within the air. This should not create a problem in normal conditions, but can lead to condensation, rot and corrosion especially if combined with low temperatures.

Material based moisture has been caused by water travelling from one material to another. Faulty seals or damage to the external structure is a common cause, along with damaged pipes under sinks or around the shower.


Measure the air humidity
Moisture in air is measured using Relative Humidity (RH). Below 75% RH is classed as dry, whilst anything over 75% RH will allow bacterial and fungal growth.

Electronic hygrometers like the Protimeter Hygromaster will provide an accurate reading of the humidity in air. Utilised by surveyors, both instruments record the measurements using %RH with temperature readings.

A simple method to test the air humidity within the caravan is to use a chemical reaction. Fugenex Damp Protect is a simple card incorporating a strip of paper which reacts to airborne moisture.


Checking for moisture in the Caravan structure
There are two types of moisture meters than can detect and record the levels of damp within the caravan. The first instrument utilises two metal pins which provides a direct reading and the second instrument utilises a non-invasive radio mode.

Two-Pin Devices
A moisture meter featuring two metal pins at the top of the instrument will record the level of moisture by measuring the resistance between the pins. It is a direct reading and provides the best accuracy.

However, most of the interior and exterior of the caravan contains surfaces that do not directly hold moisture, but provide a protective finish. The pins would therefore be required to push through the finished surface into the layer below.

This would leave a mark and is only advised to undertake from inside the unit and on surfaces that will not be directly seen by any future buyers.

Non Invasive Radio Mode
This method utilises moisture detection which sends a signal below the surface of the material to a nominal depth of 19mm. The instruments will not damage the surface so is ideal for all interior and exterior applications.

A major material found within a caravan is aluminium and steel which provides strength. All metals provide an excellent conductive material, so don’t be surprised if you receive a high signal around the metal structure.



Recommended Models
We would always recommend the Protimeter range manufactured by GE. They are the industrial standard surveying tool, produced to the highest standard and supplied with a two year warranty.

For direct readings, we would recommend the Protimeter Mini as it is the simplest instrument.

For a combination of two-pins and non-invasive we would recommend the Protimeter Surveymaster.

For air humidity readings, we would recommend the Protimeter Hygromaster which allows the user to interchange the sensor.

If you are employed by a caravan specialist, you may be best to purchase the Protimeter MMS2 which incorporates all functions into a single unit.


Further reading
Digital Moisture Meters
Dealing with damp in a caravan
Camping and Caravanning Club - Winter Caravan Checks

Leica Disto D510 - Advanced laser measuring

Leica Geosystems has developed a new generation of laser measuring instruments that take full advantage of precision measuring with the convenience of syncing to an iPhone, iPad, Windows and Android device.

For many years customers have been asking for the ability to measure a structure, record the dimension digital either through a plan or image on Apple iPhone and iPad devices. A tall order? Not for Leica.

The new Leica DISTO D510 is the most advanced laser measuring instrument, combining advanced measuring functions with digital pointfinder, 360° tilt sensor and Bluetooth drawing apps.

Projects that are not possible with conventional distance meters can be undertaken with the Leica DISTO D510. Dimensions can even be entered onto photographs with no effort whatsoever and emailed back to your office.

Outdoor targeting - Pointfinder (4x Zoom)
Even if the laser point is not visible to the naked eye, the target can be seen exactly in the crosshairs through the Leica DISTO D510 high resolution display. This supports working outdoors at sunny wheather.

Height measurement without laser reflection
Even if an object has no suitable laser reflection point, the height can be determined due to the combination of Pointfinder and tilt sensor. The height is calculated only with the measured tilt – no reflection of the laser beam is needed!

Tilt sensor - 360 Degree
Thanks to the in-built digital tilt sensor, the Leica DISTO D510 can quickly measure tilts up to ± 360°. The tilt sensor also allows you to measure absolutely horizontally or measure past obstructions (horizontal distance).

Highest Protection - IP65
The Leica DISTO D510 is protected against damage from water and dust, approved to IP65 rating. The housing and keypad are specially sealed against water and dust with a special rubber sealing strip.

Intuitive and simple to use
The Leica DISTO D510 has been adapted to modern cell phones and is extremely simple to use. Furthermore, an integrated help screen explains the functions in detail.

Quick sketching with iPhone App
Increase your productivity and show professionality!
Transfer data to your iPhone or iPad and create quick sketches, or take a photo and dimension it.

Visit the main Leica DISTO website
For more information on the range of Leica Disto laser measures

Don’t risk gas detection failure

Crowcon recently learnt that less than one third of managers are ‘very confident’ that the gas detectors in their workplaces actually work. Research also shows that, despite ranking the frequency of testing as most important, two in five managers believe their systems are not tested regularly.

And when asked about the procedure should all the gas detectors in a plant have failed, alarmingly almost a 25% of managers would carry on as normal.

These findings come from industry-wide research into fixed gas detection systems in the workplace, commissioned by electrochemical-sensors manufacturer, Analytical Technology (ATI). However, it also serves to highlight the importance of ensuring the reliable performance of all gas detection equipment.

Leading gas monitor manufacturer, Crowcon, recommend a simple 30-second bump test of your gas detector, which will help you identify problems and avoid potentially fatal accidents.

What is bump testing?
A bump test is a brief exposure, or ‘bump’, of the gas detector with a known concentration of the target gas or gases. It verifies that the sensor is responding, and the instrument is functioning properly. A simple bump test increases confidence in the detector and highlights any need for re-calibration.

Crowcon Tetra3 (T3) Gas Tester
Crowcon’s new Tetra3 (T3) GasTester provides a cost-effective, fast and simple solution for the Tetra:3 portable, multi-gas detector.

When inserted into the tester, the Crowcon T3 automatically switches into bump mode. Once the test is complete, the result is then accepted by the user and automatically logged in the Crowcon T3. A passed test reassures the user that their detector is in good working order, while a failed test will inform the user that their instrument needs to be re-calibrated or serviced.

The Crowcon T3 Gas Tester can bump sensor for flammable, oxygen, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide gases. It is capable of testing up to four gases within just 60 seconds, as well as confirming that visual and audible alarms are working correctly. When used with a fixed flow regulator, the T3 Gas Tester provides approximately 100 bumps per 34 litres of quad gas, making it very cost-effective. As a lightweight, stand-alone unit, it is ideal for both on-site and in-field testing. Fast and simple to use, it features automatic gas detector recognition and automatic gas delivery. It can also be mounted to the wall, desk or attached to a DIN rail, without the need for a power supply.


For more information on the Crowcon Tetra3 Gas Tester
For more information on the Crowcon Tetra3

Cable Detection EZiCAT XF - Precision Location

Cable Detection recently launched an upgraded version of their successful EZiCAT cable location range with the XF version.

The Cable Detection EZiCAT range of cable locators provide outstanding location performance, but like all standard cable avoidance tools, they are restricted to standard location activities.

This is partly due to their outstanding cost. You would not expect them to have the same features and capabilities of higher performance instruments, like the RD4000, which has been specifically designed for precision location activities in the telecommunication, utility or power industries. These environments demand cable location equipment which can precisely detect and trace a service through very congested surroundings.

Well, the new EZiCAT XF series helps to bridge the gap between the performance of higher end models and the familiarity of the standard cable location models.

Equipment with precision, digital trace technology, the Cable Detection EZiCAT XF range delivers a greater range of location frequencies, deeper depth detection and a longer trace distance. These enhanced features firmly place the EZiCAT XF range between Radiodetection’s RD4000 and RD8000 models!

Greater Depth Detection
A common problem is the maximum depth that a standard instrument can detect a sonde. Applications greater than 3m can cause the cable avoidance tool to miss the signal from the sonde. The EZiCAT XF features an enhanced depth detection allowing a sonde to be located up to 10m.

Signal Strength Indication (SSI)
Congested utilities provide another issue, ghost or shadow signals. A ghost signal can be created when a utility is inducted with a signal from a signal generator. It is a common problem, causing the operator to trace the wrong utility. This can be overcome with the Signal Strength Indicator (SSI) which displays the strength of the signal allowing the operator to trace the right service and not chase shadows!

A common misinterpretation is where a locator displays the gain (dB) to indicate the amount of signal detected. The amount of signal is also a factor of depth, i.e. if the service carries the same signal but deeper then more gain is needed. The SSI reading on the EZiCAT is depth compensated so gives a better "true indication" of signal strength independent of the service depth and so will more reliable than just using dB reading.

Wider Frequencies
The Cable Detection EZiCAT XF features a wider range of frequencies when searching in transmitter mode. When operated with the new EZiTEX XF signal generators, the operator can select 8kHz, 33khz, 512kHz or 640kHz to provide a crisper tracing signal when working in a congested environment. 33kHz can jump onto multiple signals whilst 512kHz remains on the original service.

Higher Watts
A longer trace distance is activated by utilising the EZITEX i300XF signal generator which provides a stronger 3 watt signal. This is transmitted through the utility and in turn picked up by the EZiCAT XF cable locators.

A stronger signal will improve the quality of locating electrical services where the presence of electrical interference can hamper the location survey.

The extra power of the EZiTEX i300XF signal generator results in a greater tracing range and a better outcome where there are high impedance lines, like telecom cables where the additional power delivers a better locate signal.

Easier Tracing
The finial point which needs to be made is the way the Cable Detection range locates signals. Other manufacturers’ instruments detects the signal when traveling across (90 degrees) to the utility, forcing the operator to walk back and forth across the service. Whilst with the Cable Detection EZiCAT, the operator walks in line with the service, reducing distance travelled and time spent locating.

Network Rail Approved
All Cable Detection EZiCAT cable avoidance instruments have been approved to work in and around the UK’s rail infrastructure. This provides a complete paired kit of EZiCAT, EZiTEX and accessories, so an operator can ensure that their surveying and construction teams are equipped with correctly approved cable avoidance tools.

Demonstration
If you would like a demonstration of the new Cable Detection EZiCAT XF range, Survey Express Services are approved distributors for the complete range. Simply contact your nearest store and our dedicated sales team will be happy to demonstration the instruments at a location suitable to you.


Cable Detection EZiCAT XF and EZiTEX system

Cable Detection Network Rail Approval

In order for an instrument to be utilised in and around the United Kingdom’s rail infrastructure, Network Rail has to grant product acceptance.

The product acceptance process provides assurance to Network Rail that products when accepted for use on or about our infrastructure are:
a) Safe
b) Fit for purpose
c) Do not export unacceptable risks to Network Rail infrastructure

Only accepted products - except as allowed by NR/L2/RSE/100/05 - shall be used on the rail infrastructure


Cable avoidance tools are an essential safety instrument, especially in an environment where heavy duty power cables can lie just below the rail bed surface. Surprisingly, not all cable avoidance tools have been granted approval.


This is not the case for Cable Detection’s range of EZiCAT i-series and xf series cable avoidance tools. Both the cable locators and signal generators are approved through certificate PA05/04866.

This certificate covers all Ezicat (i500, i550, i600, i650, i500xf, i550xf, i600xf, i650xf) models, Ezitex (t100, t300, t100xf, t300xf) models, signal clamp, Digitex and Digitrace instruments.


Click for more information on Cable Detection Ezicat and Ezitex range