What factors are important in selecting an inclinometer?

Inclinometers vary in range, accuracy, size and resolution. So in order to choose a good inclinometer -- one that fits your application well--it's important to consider several factors. First, determine the maximum range of tilt you require, and select an inclinometer with an angular range equal to or slightly greater than your requirement. Regarding accuracy, typically ball-in-tube inclinometers will increase in accuracy as the distance between "hashmarks" increases. So it is advisable to select as large an inclinometer as is practical. Regarding resolution, consider how "fine" a reading you require.  For example, should hashmarks occur every five degrees, every two degrees, etc.  Look for a Sun Company tilt meter with resolution to match your requirements.  

How do I determine that my mounting surface is at "zero degrees" tilt, before mounting my inclinometer?

Move your rig to a flat, level area.  Then using a carpenter's level or other means, level the member to which you will attach your Sun Company inclinometer.  When mounting the tilt indicator, make sure the indicator ball is aligned with the "0" mark on the inclinometer.  If drilling holes in your Sun Company tilt indicator for hardware mounting, make the holes slightly larger than the threaded fasteners, to allow some "play" in the positioning of the tilt gauge, before final tightening of the mounting hardware.

What's important in mounting an inclinometer? How do I mount an inclinometer?

It is important, for accurate readings, that your SUN inclinometer (1) is mounted to a true vertical surface, (2) operates within the temperature range shown in the Specifications section on the product page, and (3) operates in a vibration-free environment.  Vibration can cause static electricity, which can inhibit movement of the indicator ball.  If mounting your angle gauge with the provided pressure-sensitive tape, the mounting surface should be at or above 60 degrees F (16 degrees C).  If mounting with tape, clean the mounting surface with Isopropyl alcohol or other grease cutting cleaner, so the surface is free of dirt, grime, oil and grease.  Surface must be dry.  Mounting member must be at true vertical.*  Once the inclinometer is in the desired location (with indicator ball at zero), press the tilt gauge firmly against the mounting surface to set the adhesive.

 

* We offer an inclinometer bracket, Item #2000-I, which allows true vertical-surface mount.

Where should I mount my Sun Company inclinometer?

Select a mounting location so that your Sun Company inclinometer will be readily visible from the cab of your vehicle or rig.  If mounting outside the cab, get help from a second person.  While the operator is seated in the cab, a second person can move the inclinometer until it's at the location most easily viewed by the operator. Always mount your tilt indicator to a vertical surface. Mounting on a surface that is not vertical will negatively affect accuracy, and voids warranty. Please note that we offer a mounting bracket (Item #2000-I) that permits vertical mounting almost anywhere.

How can I convert angular degrees to percent slope, and vice versa? 

There are several website that offer a free, easy-to-use "degrees to percent slope" calculator, and a "percent slope to degrees" calculator.  For example:  www.calcunation.com and www.convertunits.com

 

Alternately, our Lev-o-gage 9 (Item #1112-I) and Lev-o-gage 12 (Item#1617-I) show angle in both degrees and percent slope.

What is different about Sun Company?

We're a third-generation manufacturing and product development company.  Nearly all of the inclinometer models we sell qualify for "Made in USA" classification.  Our customer service is excellent, our prices are very competitive, and you'll appreciate the careful, hand crafted quality you'll find in the Sun Company products you select.

How are your inclinometers made? Of what materials are your products made?

Sun Company inclinometers are made with attention to detail, for a superior product.  One example:  Our unique engraved and hand-painted numerals and hashmarks offer a high-contrast, easy to read display that lasts much longer than typical screen printed graphics.  Most of our tube assemblies are made of tough Pyrex borosilicate glass.  A Saturn yellow background ensures good readability, even in low light.  Our housings are made of durable ABS polymer.  3M brand "Very High Bond" tape is provided on most of our inclinometers, for long lasting adhesion.  Most are rated to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is your warranty?

We provide a one year Limited Warranty on our inclinometers.  For further details, please see a current published price list.

Can you custom-drill mounting holes in your inclinometers?

Yes, we are happy to offer this service. Pricing is based upon quantity. Please send us a message through our Contact Us page for any customization inquiries.

Can you provide special colors to mark safe, alert and danger zones?

Yes, we can provide our inclinometers with as many colored zones as you require. Please send us a message through our Contact Us page for any customization inquiries.

How much do you charge for shipping?

Shipping cost is calculated at checkout based on multiple factors including shipment dimensions, weight, and delivery address.

As a general contractor, where can I go to get help improving worker safety? 

The Association of General Contractors of America (AGC) currently has two safety programs designed to help contractors improve worker safety:

 

1.  AGC Safety Management Training Course (SMTC)

2. AGC Advanced Safety Management Training Course (ASMTC). 

 

AGC also sponsors periodic safety and health conferences. 

 

Here's their website:  www.agc.org

Where else can I find safety training programs for the workplace? 

The National Safety Council offers a variety of workplace safety training programs such as:

 

1. Advanced Safety Certificate Program

2. Supervisor Safety Training

3. Lift Truck Operator Training

4. OSHA Compliance Training

 

For more information, visit their website:  www.nsc.org