Engineering Tools and Supplies, Blueprint Storage, Surveying Equipment, Measuring Blog

Mayline Office Products and Mayline Furniture

2009-11-17T16:45:00.001-05:00

Engineer supply is proud to be a Mayline factory authorized dealer. Through our partnership with Mayline, EngineerSupply has the opportunity to offer Mayline Office Products at a great price. Mayline carries a wide selection of office accessories and Mayline brand furniture, including a full line of blueprint storage solutions like hanging clamps, hanging document stands, steel flat files, wood flat files and portable rolled document carts. Many of our customers (and even our employees) have also enjoyed one of Mayline’s office chairs. With many different shapes sizes and specializations there’s a chair right for everyone.

To view our full line of Mayline products click here, http://www.engineersupply.com/mayline.aspx

Measuring Tools

2009-10-30T15:46:00.001-05:00

There are so many different types of measuring tools currently out on the market, it’s hard to know which one to choose. If you need help knowing how to measure something and which tool is most suited for the job read below to see a summary of the different types of measuring equipment that we carry,

Distance Measuring Wheels are excellent tools for measuring long distances in a hurry. To use, simply reset the counter, place the wheel at the point you want to start measuring, and roll in a straight direction to the stopping point, then read the counter. Small Wheels are ideal for indoor measuring, Medium Wheels for both indoor and outdoor, and Large Wheels are ideal for outdoor measurements only.

Laser Distance Measuring Tools, AKA "Electronic Tape Measures", "Laser Distance Finders" or "Digital Measuring Devices", offer the most accurate measuring. You simply point the laser distance measuring devices dot at a target like a wall, a house, a utility pole, nearly any object, and the device will show the distance on its LCD screen. These measuring devices are true time savers and are very accurate.

We offer a variety of Measuring Tapes, including pocket tapes, long tapes and specialty tapes. Our long tapes are available in steel or fiberglass. Pocket Measuring Tapes are handy to have around. With an enclosed case and belt clip, they are easy to carry and easy to use. We offer many different units of measure like metric, feet and inches, and feet and tenths.

Measuring Rod Rulers are very handy tools. Not only can they be used in a vertical fashion, but can be used horizontally as well when, for example, measuring the distance from the center of a manhole to back of curb. Some rods also have Surveying Grade Rods marking as well as the Measuring Ruler Scale.

EngineerSupply Expands Video Library with the Addition of Seco Product Videos

2009-10-26T14:14:00.001-05:00

We’re constantly adding more product videos to our online Video Library. We’ve recently added a wide selection of videos showcasing our Seco Products. These new product videos cover a wide variety of construction and surveying products including safety vests, surveying GPS accessories, product bags and cases, and much more. The videos include a variety of detailed studio and field demonstrations, highlighting different uses and specialty features. The new Seco videos can be viewed on our Video Library Page or on the EngineerSupply YouTube Page.

To see the full collection of Seco Videos Click Here!

We become An Authorized Topcon National Dealer !

2009-10-15T18:25:00.002-05:00

We become a factory-authorized, national distributor of Topcon tools and equipment today. A very exciting time for EngineerSupply as we make more progress by expanding our selection of name-brand high-quality products for the AEC Industry.

The Crain One-Shot Direct Reading Rod Can Save Time and Reduces Errors

2009-10-06T14:34:00.001-05:00

Often times I have customers calling and asking about a Lenker rod. Sometimes they refer to it as a linker rod, direct elevation rod, and even Lanker Rod. I always recommend Crain’s One Shot Direct Reading Rod. It has the same concept a Lenker rod but has a better design and a lower price. It has a strong durable construction without brittle tapes or easily breakable parts. Crain’s Direct Reading Rod It is ideal for Grading, Masonry, Site Work, Forms, Landscaping, Foundations, Sewers, Drainage and Slab Work.

Direct Elevation rods are specifically made for setting grade. It reduces errors by showing exactly how much needs to be cut or filled. To use a direct reading rod adjust the rod so the Zero point (or bench mark) is the same as the height of the instrument. Now when you move the rod around the work area it will indicate the amount that needs to be cu tor filled to set the grade. Cut numbers are marked in red and full numbers are black (along with arrows that indicate “cut” or “fill”.) The direct reading rod takes the math out of setting grade. Saving time and reducing errors.

Google SketchUp

2009-09-24T16:54:00.000-05:00

Recently I came across Google SketchUp and was very please with the application. Not only is it free but it’s also easy to use. Google SketchUp is a good tool for Construction, Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and home owners. Here’s some information I pulled off Google’s website.

SketchUp: pencil meets processor Let's face it: drawing on the computer hasn't exactly lived up to its hype. CAD may be good for drafting, but conceptual design is a whole different matter. SketchUp Pro is quick to learn and intuitive to use, meaning it stays out of the way of your creative process. You'll spend less time hunting for tools and reading manuals, and more time working

Construction companies and Engineering firms use SketchUp to quickly and effectively communicate 3D information, enhancing collaboration and ensuring a shared vision. Architects use SketchUp at every stage of the building design process. Architects tell us that SketchUp works the way they think, allowing them to go back and forth between pencil and computer to visualize complicated spatial relationships in 3D.

Google SketchUp has accurate measurements so your models have a precise dimension. You can build models that are as accurate as you need them. SketchUp's also lets you create, optimize and alter 3D terrain. You can generate a smooth landscape from a set of imported contour lines, add berms and valleys for runoff, and create a building pad and driveway.

For more information on Google SketchUp click here, http://sketchup.google.com/

Scalex PlanWheel

2009-09-16T13:37:00.001-05:00

If you want to measure plans the fast, accurate way, then the Scalex PlanWheel XLU 2 is it. The Scalex PlanWheel XLU 2 is a great plan take-off tool for entering linear measurements from your blueprints, maps, or plans. Just select the built-in scale factor to match the plan and roll the PlanWheel. The measurement is displayed instantly. The PlanWheel can connect to your computer with the optional Interface Kit. The kit works with all versions of Windows. To use simply roll the Scalex wheel along your print, then click to instantly transfer the measurement into your program. The scale link connects to your computer with one of two ways, either through a USB cord or wirelessly. The PlanWheel XLU 2 can be used without the interface kit if you desire to do so.

The Scalex Scale Link and The "Deluxe Kit" Scale-Link USB are specially suited for all Microsoft Windows construction estimating software. Also works with Excel, Access, Quatro Pro, Lotus 1-2-3, dBase, Paradox, Foxpro and other spreadsheets.

Schonstedt Magnetic Locator Trade-In Program

2009-08-29T14:48:00.002-05:00

If you’re thinking about purchasing a new Schonstedt Magnetic Locator for under utility location now is the perfect time. Schonstedt is currently offering a you money back if you trade in your old locator and purchase a Schonstedt. To take advantage of the program, purchase a Schonstedt locator on EngineerSupply.com, Download the Schonstedt Trade-In Program Form, and mail it in to Schonstedt with your old locator and receipt. Schonstedt will mail a $100.00 check to you directly if you are trading in a Schonstedt brand. If you are trading in a unit that Schonstedt considers a competitors unit, they will mail a $175.00 check to you.

View all Schonstedt Products here

We cannot guarantee this Trade-In Program since Schonstedt offers it direct to the customer. The Trade-In Program is per Schonstedt's Terms and Conditions. Purchasing a new locator from EngineerSupply does not guarantee that the Trade-In Program will be awarded. We recommend that you contact Schonstedt directly if you have any questions about the Trade-In Program

Great prices and Shipping Costs on Mayline and Safco Flat Files

2009-08-12T14:03:00.000-05:00

Flat Files can be used to store everyday document storage like working drawings, and long-term storage like archived blueprint storage. Flat files not only store documents but they protect them A Steel Flat file can hold almost any document such as maps, posters, newspapers, artwork, drawings, jacket covers, x-rays, fabric, proofs and blueprints. EngineerSupply carries a full line of flat files. We have them available in multiple sizes, colors and types, Wood flat files and steel flat files. Flat files are ideal for storing blueprints, maps, plans and all large documents.

Costumers these days are always looking to save money, one of the ways they do this is through price comparisons. Purchasing things like flat files off the internet can be intimidating. Customers are weary of shipping charges. Flat files are large and heavy and costly to ship. One feature that sets EngineerSupply apart from their competitors is our shipping prices. EngineerSupply has exceptionally low prices on shipping flat files. A flat file order from EngineerSupply ships for considerably less than our competitors charge.

So next time you do price comparisons, remember to include shipping costs in your comparisons. To view EngineerSupply’s shipping costs Click Here. Please see specific product pages for Wood Flat Files, Steel Flat Files, Mayline Flat Files, or Safco Flat Files for more detail and specifications. For any additional question or for more information please call EngineerSupply. To read more about how to pick a flat file read our Product Guide Here.

Take a Look at the Safco Masterfile High-Density Storage Cabinet

2009-07-22T10:05:00.004-05:00

The Safco Masterfile High-Density Blueprint Storage Cabinet is an awesome product. If you've never seen one, take a second to take a quick look. Its made to store and archive many documents (such as blueprints, maps, or drawings) in a small area of floor space. The Safco Masterfile basically works like this- you buy carrier strips that attach to the hanging edge of your document and the carrier strip has holes in it for the Masterfiles way of hanging and holding the documents. The Safco Masterfile has large bars (that look like spikes) that you slide the documents onto (actually the carrier strip is what slides onto the bars and the documents are attached to the carrier strips). Carrier strips come in a several different types of materials with some having a place to write your document identification on. The idea is to archive and protect documents that are valuable, valuable because of the amount of time invested in producing them, and also maybe they are originals with no other existing copies that need to be stored and protected. The Safco Company makes some very high-quality engineering-related products for the AEC world.

Leica Roteo Rotating Laser Levels and 35G Green Beam

2009-07-20T08:25:00.001-05:00

Engineer Supply carries Leica’s new extended line of Roteo Rotating Lasers, including Leica’s first Green Beam Rotary Laser. Each laser has different settings and accessories specifically for different applications around the work site. The new Lasers include the Leica Roteo 20HV, Leica Roteo 25H, Leica Roteo 35 WMR and the Leica Roteo 35G Green Beam.

Some of the features on the expanded Roteo line include a new housing design, remote control and a motorized wall mount. The new house features an aluminum cage to protect the laser head and an easy grip handle. Remote control can be accessed through the laser receiver and key chain remote device. The remote controlled motorized wall mount is ideal for installing drop ceiling. The Leica Roteo Rotary Laser is ideal for many different interior and exterior applications such as, drop ceilings, framing, installing dry wall, laying pipes, grading, cabinetry, and many more.

Leica new Rotary Lasers also include the Leica Roteo 35G, Leica’s first green Rotary laser. Green Rotary lasers have become popular due to their high visibility in bright conditions and over long distances and are recommended for indoor use. The green laser beam is 4 times more visible to the human eye than the red laser beam.

The uses for distance measuring wheels are endless

2009-07-09T13:22:00.000-05:00

Don’t think you have to fall into a specialized career to have a need for a measuring wheel. The uses for distance measuring wheels are endless. There are multiple ways to use a measuring wheel around your house. I had a customer that wanted to measure the size of his yard because he wanted to do some landscape improvements such as fertilizer calculations, mulch beds as well as planning and installing a garden, a concrete driveway and a walkway. With his mid-sized measuring wheel he could take measurements himself with comfort and ease.

Thinking about installing new carpet, tile or hardwood floors? Small interior measuring wheels are perfect to taking room estimations. This way you know how much supplies you will need to get the job done, saving you time and money.

For more information view our full line of distance measuring wheels . If you have any questions about measuring wheel please email us and we will be more than happy to help you!

Keson Electronic Steel Measuring Wheel Model MP401E

2009-07-07T18:51:00.002-05:00

Estimators have a very important job. Building Contractors use the work from building estimators to bid for a potential job opportunity. Without a good estimate, a bid could be too high and lose a potential project or bid too low and lose money after the work is completed.

Accurate measurements are crucial to Construction Estimators. They have the job of balancing company profit with the lowest bid. Not only do their measurements have to be accurate but the calculations they do with them must also be correct. Their different jobs can be so versatile that it’s hard to pin point exactly what features they’ll need. They prefer a sophisticated measuring wheel that is able to make their workload lighter.

The Keson 401E is ideal tool for construction estimators because it will perform advanced calculations. The Keson 401E electronic measuring can be used to automatically measure length and area. It also has an internal memory function to automatically add or subtract numbers. Moving the wheel forward adds to the measurement and moving the wheel backward subtracts.

The Keson 401E can measure and convert between feet and inches, feet and tenths, meters and continuous inches. It is durable and rugged, perfect for onsite use because of its water-resistant construction and the curved telescoping handle. The LCD counter features a 6 digit display with ½” high numbers. The auto shutdown mode and low battery detector ensure sufficient power to finish the job. Estimators use it for a variety of tasks including how much concrete, paint, pavement, and many other types of material are needed on a job site.

Measuring wheels can be used as a Runners Training Aid

2009-06-26T13:32:00.001-05:00

Measuring wheels are also used by runners and track coaches. We have many customers that use the distance measuring wheels to measure the distance of a lap or course. It’s used by long distance runners, track and field, sprinters, marathon runners, track and cross country athletes. Any standard exterior measuring wheel will work for this application. There is not a specialized sporting good distance measuring wheel.

I had one customer that ordered a measuring wheel to make his son a track course. His son was on the high school track team and was hoping for a college scholarship. This meant he had to keep training even during the off season. The track at school was far away and he was getting a little bored running the same circle everyday. So His father purchased a measuring wheel to chart a route he could run in their neighborhood. This not only saved him gas money and driving time but he could get a new view while he exercised.

Paint Marking Measuring Wheels

2009-06-25T15:16:00.003-05:00

Road and utilities crews have a unique situation when it comes to selecting a measuring wheel. Working near the road can be dangerous and minimal time should be spent on the road side near dangerous traffic conditions.

Most workers using a distance measuring wheel while marking locations with spray paint (aka "marking paint", or "upside down marking paint"). The user has the measuring wheel in one hand and the paint in the other. So in order to mark a specific point you either have to bend down and apply the paint or carry a separate bulky inverted spray wand. In both cases your hands are filled with no way to write down any notes, other than to lay one of the items in your hand down. And, your finger can get very tired spraying paint all day. Hence, paint marking measuring wheels like Keson’s RRPA182 is a great solution to these problems.

Keson’s Road Runner Paint Applicator Measuring Wheel has a 38 inch telescoping handle with a trigger that will spray the spray paint onto the ground. This improves accuracy and saves time, minimizing the time spent near dangerous areas. It is also light and portable weighing less than 2 pounds and collapsing down to 17 inches. The belt counter allows it to add when rolled forward and subtract when pulled in reverse. It measures 9,999 feet, 11 inches without resetting. Keson Road Runner RRPA182 Paint Applicator measuring wheel is ideal for Asphalt road crews and concrete contractors.

I bought a Mayline Ranger Drafting Table

2009-06-23T18:22:00.003-05:00

Last month, I bought a Mayline Ranger Drafting Table for my personal use here in my office at EngineerSupply. Ordering online is somewhat addictive in that I placed the order, and in a few days a truck driver delivers the box to our office door. I opened the box and everything, all the parts were well packaged and protected, I was glad to see no damage had occurred during transit. I had always heard that they were easy to assemble but this was quick. The leg assemblies, left and right, were already together. I simple installed the stringer support (the part you put your feet on) and then the top two supports, then the top, along with the hinges and height adjusters. I think it took me about 20 minutes top to open the box, unwrap the parts, and get the desk together. It took only a wrench and a screwdriver and was totally painless. I imagined it would be lots of parts but it really wasnt. I was delighted when I found the leg assemblies already together, plenty of hardware, and easy-to-read instructions (I'll admit I didn't use the instructions at all). The table is extremely sturdy, and the board is nice and thick.

EngineerSupply.com Celebrates 10 Years Online

2009-06-23T18:21:00.001-05:00

EngineerSupply.com is celebrating ten years of online service. Since being founded in 1999, EngineerSupply has grown into a leading retailer for survey and engineering equipment. Our comprehensive product line includes engineering, surveying, architecture and measuring equipment including blueprint and large document storage. EngineerSupply is always looking for new ways to improve our customer’s online experience. Our efforts include a blog, online videos, a YouTube page, a Facebook page and a twitter profile. We are proud of the company EngineerSupply has become. But most importantly we are grateful to our customers who helped get us here. Thank you!

To read the press release about our 10 year anniversary Click here!

A Versatile Distance Measuring Wheel

2009-06-23T09:51:00.001-05:00

We had another customer that was a contractor. He mentioned that he never really knew what type of job he was going to be on but he knew he needed a strong durable, versatile wheel that would be able to keep up with his line of work. Sometimes he’d have to measuring some pretty rough terrain so he had to be certain things couldn’t get caught in the spokes of his wheel.

We recommended to him the Keson Professional Measuring Wheel MP415 model. This Measuring Wheel has a Solid Wheel made of heavy ABS so spokes do not get caught in sticks or debris. Plus it has a two-scaled measuring wheel in Feet/Inches & Feet/Tenths. Simplicity and durability were two principles that guided Keson’s design of this Metal Measuring Wheel. The result is a wheel that rolls easily over the most difficult terrain and can stand up to constant heavy use. The Keson MP415 only two moving parts (reset and ticker) which means fewer things can go wrong. With its 5-digit counter it will count up to 99,999 feet. It also comes with a 6-Year Manufacturers Warranty.

The DuraWheel DW-500 Measuring Wheel

2009-06-18T15:18:00.003-05:00

We have a lot of customers who are Realtors and estimators that order distance measuring wheels. One of their favorites is the Dura Wheel DW-500 Measuring Wheel. This is a great tool to measure the size of a room with, especially when you need to take the measurement by yourself. Another great benefit of the DW-500 is that it is belt driven. This means if you accidentally roll the measuring wheel too far moving the wheel backwards and will subtract the amount you’ve traveled. The DuraWheel DW-500 also features a 5-Digit Counter that measures in feet and tenths. The Extended Length is 38 inches and it folds down to a small compact size of only 14 inches. Another useful measuring tool from EngineerSupply.

Distance Measuring Wheels

2009-06-17T13:52:00.000-05:00

For the next couple weeks we’re going to be focusing on one of our most popular tools, the Distance Measuring Wheel. The popularity of this distance measuring tool is simple. Many people in many different industries are looking for a practical, quick and easy way to measure distances. Taking measurements with a measuring wheel is as simple as taking a walk. Simply roll the measuring wheel along the area you need to measure and it will automatically track the distance you’ve traveled. Below are some tips to help ensure you’re picking the best measuring wheel for you needs.

Small wheels are intended to be used on hard smooth surfaces, typically found indoors. Small Wheels are ideal for Painters, Interior Designers, Appraisers, Realtors, and Carpet Layers.

Medium to large wheels are recommended for taking exterior distance measurements, like measuring a field or lawn. The smallest diameter recommended for exterior measurements is 10 inches. Rougher conditions require a larger wheel in order to improve accuracy. Medium to large wheels are ideal for exterior use including Fencing, Contractors (including paving, concrete, cement and road contractors), Landscapers, City Maintenance, Insurance Adjusters, and Appraisers.

You can buy mechanical or electronic (digital) distance measuring wheels depending on your needs. Theres advantaged and disadvantages to either mechanical or electronic. A disadvantage of electronic wheels is that you have to always have fresh batteries with you in the field, but they give you the ability to measure in different units of measurement with the click of a button. With mechanical wheels, you dont have to have fresh batteries since they dont require batteries at all, and they are very easy to use.

In my next few posts I will discuss some different uses for measuring wheels and ways our customers have used measuring wheels to make work easier.

Engineering Jokes Anyone?

2009-06-09T08:38:00.002-05:00

The folks over at Boss International seem to have a good sense of humor with their blog that includes some Engineering Jokes. One of my previous supervisors and mentors when I was a GIS Manager told me to "never lose my sense of humor, if you do, the game is over". I considered it to be very good advice from a man that lived to retire and grow old while keeping things in perspective. In today's business and economic environment, this statement is probably more true than ever.

The Spiroll Drawing Protector

2009-06-03T08:56:00.004-05:00

A wonderful drafting table accessory, this aluminum "tube" installs at the bottom edge of your drawing board. It has a slot opening so your drawing slips into the slot and protects it from you leaning forward into your drawing table. This protects your paper from getting bent or dirty. Includes all Mounting Hardware, and is Made in the USA. Various sizes (lengths) to choose from.

Close-Out Price on Schonstedt MAC-51Bx

2009-05-29T14:16:00.004-05:00

CLOSE-OUT PRICE
Buy the Schonstedt MAC-51Bx while inventory holds out. The MAC-51Bx is a Magnetic Locator that has a dual-purpose function, that of a Pipe and Cable Locator. This tool works great for Land Surveyors, Utility Professionals, and City Departments. It comes with a Transmitter that you can induce a signal on any metallic pipe or cable, then use the Reciever to locate. Or, find any ferrous metal (if a magnet will stick to it, it'll locate it) buried underground such as rebar, water pipe, ductile iron, welded wire fabric, using the Magnetic Locator feature. Close out price is the lowest price in order to move these as quickly as possible. Three year manufacturers warranty included.

Save Money with Plotter Paper

2009-04-28T10:24:00.004-05:00

In this economy everyone is looking to save some money. Taking 5 minutes out of your day to compare the price of Plotter Paper (also known as "Large Format Printer Paper") for you or your company can save a lot of money in the short and long term depending on how much paper you use. EngineerSupply carries all sizes and types of plotter paper and at low prices, and even more savings due to it's delivered right to your door. Take the hassle out of plotter paper shopping and get it delivered. Please look at our online selection of Plotter Paper and see how we can help you save money.

Easily Calculate Distance with Stadia

2009-04-19T14:00:00.002-05:00

Stadiametric rangefinding, or the stadia method, is used to quickly measure distances with an engineer's transit, theodolites, or auto-level and a graduated rod (Please note that most Total Stations do not have stadia markings). The instrument must be used on a level surface for this method to work correctly. This Stadia range finding is good for locating topographic details such as fields, rivers, bridges, buildings, and roads.

An instrument equipped for stadia work has two horizontal stadia marks spaced an equal distance from the center crosshair of the reticle. The distance between the stadia markings usually have a stadia interval factor of 100. This is important to know when calculating the distance between the instrument and the stadia rod.

To estimate distance with the stadia measuring method, hold the stadia rod so that it can be seen between the two stadia marks on the instrument's reticle (as pictured). With the Stadia Surveying Instrument focused on the rod, read the measurement markings on the stadia rod shown between the two stadia markings. The formula to calculate distance is D=R*S (Distance = Rod Reading Multiplied by the Stadia Constant.) The stadia constant is indicated on your instrument’s Users Manual. Most surveying Instruments have a Stadia constant of “100”. Therefore, if 6 feet is indicated on the rod, then the distance from the telescope to the rod is 600 ft. The calculation would look like this 100 * 6 ft = 600 ft. Stadia can give results accurate to about 1 foot under ideal conditions.

The stadia method of distance measurement is primarily used by professionals for a quick rough estimate and by those who primary task is not surveying. If you have any more questions about surveying instruments or would to purchase a tool to help you calculate stadia please visit EngineerSupply.com