The Hilti PR 16 rotating laser is a versatile and practical tool designed for precise alignment in various applications, particularly indoors. It functions as a "magic chalkline," enabling users to establish horizontal, vertical, and inclined planes, set out, and transfer right angles with ease. This fully-automatic device significantly reduces the time and effort traditionally required for such tasks, often allowing a single person to complete jobs that previously needed multiple individuals.
Function Description:
The Hilti PR 16 projects a visible red laser beam (Class 2/II, 635 nm, < 1mW) that rotates to create a continuous laser plane. This rotating laser is ideal for a wide range of alignment tasks, including:
- Horizontal Alignment: Perfect for suspended ceilings, electrical installations, and general levelling.
- Vertical Alignment: Useful for plumbing, heating, and air conditioning installations, ensuring pipes and ducts are perfectly vertical.
- Inclined Planes: Facilitates the installation of conveyor belts or other elements requiring a specific incline.
- Right Angle Transfer: Allows for accurate setting out and transferring of right angles, crucial for drywall installations and other construction layouts.
A key innovative feature is the "smart scan" function, which, when used with a simple beam catcher plate, allows the laser beam to be stopped at a desired point and then projected as an easily visible line. This eliminates the need for a remote control unit for many tasks, leaving both hands free for other work.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Laser Class: Class 2/II, visible, 635 nm, < 1mW (IEC825-1/EN6085; FDA 21 CFR 1040).
- Range (radius):
- 1 to 30 m (3 to 100 ft) with beam catcher.
- 2 to 150 m (6 to 500 ft) with manual detector.
- Accuracy (at 24°C / +75°F): ±1.0 mm / 10 m (±³/₃₂" / 60 ft).
- Self-levelling Range: Up to ±5°.
- Speed of Rotation (r.p.m.):
- 0 (stop mode)
- 50 (additional manual mode)
- 80 (beam catcher mode)
- 300 (detector mode)
- Battery Life (at 24°C / +75°F):
- Alkaline: > 80 hours.
- NiCd: > 25 hours.
- NiMH: > 40 hours.
- Temperature Range:
- Operating: -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to +122°F).
- Storage: -30°C to +60°C (-22°F to +140°F).
- IP Protection Class (dust and water): IP 42 M (in accordance with IEC 529).
- Dimensions (L×W×H): 183×168×234 mm (7.2×6.6×9.2").
Usage Features:
- Fully Automatic Self-Levelling: The PR 16 levels itself automatically within ±5° both vertically and horizontally, ensuring reliable accuracy and straightforward setup.
- "Smart Scan" Function: This innovative feature allows the laser beam to be stopped at a desired point using a simple beam catcher plate, projecting a clear, extendable line. This is particularly useful for distances up to 30 meters, where remote controls might be less effective, and allows for hands-free operation.
- Variable Speed of Rotation: Offers a range of rotation speeds, optimizing beam visibility for various indoor applications and providing optimal beam visibility up to 30 meters.
- User-Friendly Control Panel: The self-explanatory control panel makes working with the Hilti PR 16 very straightforward, even for new users.
- Versatility: Capable of handling alignment in horizontal, vertical, and inclined planes, as well as setting out and transferring right angles and measuring points.
- Indoor Optimization: While versatile, the PR 16 is primarily designed for indoor applications and short- to medium-distance work, offering high accuracy and an easily visible red laser.
- Accessories: A range of practical accessories, including robust tripods (PA 910, PA 911, PA 920, PA 930), telescopic staffs (PA 950, PA 951), wall brackets (PA 311), beam catchers (PA 331), manual detectors (PA 350), and various adaptors (PA 370, PA 371, PA 372), enhance its utility and ease of use for a wide range of jobs. Laser glasses (PA 970) are also available for improved visibility.
Maintenance Features:
- Dependability: Equipped with horizontal and vertical monitoring systems and a shock cut-out feature. This prevents the transfer of incorrect readings even if the device is knocked off level by an impact or vibration, ensuring consistent accuracy and reducing the need for frequent recalibration due to minor disturbances.
- Battery Options: Supports conventional alkaline batteries for extended operation (over 80 hours), as well as NiCd (> 25 hours) and NiMH (> 40 hours) rechargeable batteries, offering flexibility in power sources.
- Robust Design: While primarily for indoor use, its construction ensures durability under typical working conditions. The IP 42 M rating indicates protection against solid objects larger than 1mm and dripping water, contributing to its longevity and reliability in various environments.
- Comprehensive Package: The PR 16 rotating laser is supplied complete with four D-type alkaline batteries, a beam catcher, and operating instructions, all packed in a Hilti toolbox and cardboard box, facilitating organized storage and transport.