Instruments used for Chain Surveying

Chain surveying is a popular method of measuring distances and mapping out land areas. The accuracy of chain surveying depends largely on the quality and precision of the instruments used. In this blog post, we will look at the top 10 instruments used in chain surveying.

1. Chain - A chain is a measuring tool made up of a series of metal links, typically made of brass or steel. Chains are usually 20m or 30m long, and are used to measure distances between points on a survey site.

2. Tape - A tape is similar to a chain, but is made of cloth or steel, and is typically 30m long. Tapes are more flexible than chains and can be used to measure distances over undulating terrain.

3. Ranging rod - A ranging rod is a long, thin pole made of wood or metal, and is used to mark out points on a survey site. Ranging rods are typically 3m long and are painted with bright colors to make them visible from a distance.

4. Ranging pole - Similar to a ranging rod, a ranging pole is a long pole made of wood or metal, and is used to mark out points on a survey site. Ranging poles are typically taller than ranging rods, and are used to mark points that are further away.

5. Arrows - Arrows are used to mark out points on a survey site, and are typically made of wood or metal. Arrows are usually 30cm long and are painted with bright colors to make them visible from a distance.

6. Wooden pegs - Wooden pegs are used to mark out points on a survey site, and are typically made of hardwood. Wooden pegs are usually 30cm long and are driven into the ground to mark out points.

7. Cross staff - A cross staff is a measuring instrument used to determine the angle between two points on a survey site. Cross staffs are typically made of wood or metal and are used to measure the vertical angle between points.

8. Offset rod - An offset rod is a measuring tool used to measure distances from a fixed point on a survey site. Offset rods are typically made of metal and are used to measure distances that are too great to be measured with a tape or chain.

9. Plumb Bob - A plumb bob is a weight that is used to determine the vertical alignment of a survey instrument. Plumb bobs are typically made of metal and are used to ensure that surveying instruments are level.

10. Lath and whites - Lath and whites are used to mark out points on a survey site, and are typically made of wood or plastic. Lath and whites are used to mark out points that are not easily visible, such as points on a sloping terrain.

In conclusion, the instruments used in chain surveying play a critical role in the accuracy and precision of the final survey results. Surveyors must ensure that their instruments are of high quality and are well-maintained to achieve accurate and reliable measurements.