Slip indicator and ball vials - bent glass vials

Bent spirit level vials can be used for levelling and measuring angles as well as on aircraft turn and slip indicators.  We manufacture both ball and bubble type slip indicator vials in a wide range of sizes and sensitivities and can design and produce any vial to suit your exact requirements.   We have an advanced production facility which enables us to produce extremely high quality vials in small or large quantities at very competitive prices.   Please contact us for more information.

Theory of Operation
bent, ball, inclinometer and slip indicator vials Bent vials start out as a straight glass tube which is heated and then formed into a radius.  The principal of operation is that the bubble will move to the highest point of the radius as gravity acts on the liquid inside the vial.  This is explained in more detail on our page explaining sensitivity.  The radius can vary from 50mm to 5000mm in order to produce vials with a range of sensitivity from 2.3° (degrees) to 2' (minutes).  There are physical limitations to what will work effectively as a vial relating to the diameter, the sensitivity, the bubble size and the choice of liquid.  If the glass diameter or the bubble is too small then the bubble may stick in position.  If the vial is too large and the bubble is too small, then there will be a restricted upper temperature limit.  These are all things we have much experience of, and as such can advise you, or design a vial to meet your exact requirements.   We also offer Tritium illuminated levels (also known as Betalights or Trasers) which require no power supply, have a life of up to 20 years and enable the bubble position to be clearly visible in the dark.  Please contact us for more details.
Inclinometers Vials, Ball and Bubble Type
bent, ball, inclinometer and slip indicator vials
These glass inclinometer vials are produced in our factory to the highest quality at very competitive prices.  We have many standard types available, and can also design and produce new types to suit customers exact requirements.   The two most important factors in producing a high quality inclinometer vial are the uniformity of the bending radius, and the cleanliness of the inside of the vial.  We use advanced tooling and machinery to ensure the radius is accurate and repeatable, and have a special cleaning process to ensure the vials are free from particles and dust.  This is very important especially with the ball type vials where a small dust particle can interrupt the smooth movement of the ball.  Please contact us for more information or with details of your application.