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Spectra Precision DG511-5 Pipe Laser w/Vertical Pole Assembly - inches

$5795.00
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In Stock·Ships same day before 2 PM CT
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±10% (self-leveling) Range

Cover large layout jobs with a ±10% (self-leveling) working reach.

±1/16 inch at 100 feet Accuracy

Hold grade with a ±1/16 inch at 100 feet accuracy rating.

Power

Runs on Alkaline D-cell batteries (60+ hours runtime) for jobsite flexibility.

Authorized Spectra Precision Dealer

Genuine, factory-fresh Spectra Precision equipment with legitimate firmware and calibration documentation.

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Stock, compatibility, and ordering questions answered instantly
Authorized dealerGenuine, factory-fresh Spectra Precision equipment
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Saves 30-45 min per sewer run

String-line setup takes 30-45 min per run. A pipe laser sets in 5 min and holds grade through the entire run.

Authorized Dealer

Genuine equipment sourced straight from manufacturer partners.

Ships Same Day

Orders placed before 2 PM CT leave the dock today.

Genuine Gear

Factory-fresh, authentic units with legitimate firmware.

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Authorized-dealer pricing on every unit — request a quote anytime.

Kit Builder

Not sure what goes with this pipe laser?

Answer a few job questions and our Kit Builder assembles the full setup — receiver, rod, tripod, and case matched to your workflow.

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Quick Answer

What is the Spectra Precision DG511-5?

The Spectra Precision DG511-5 Pipe Laser w/Vertical Pole Assembly - inches is a professional-grade laser alignment tool designed for precise pipe and grade work on construction and utility projects. It delivers ±1/16 inch accuracy at 100 feet with a working range up to 1,000 feet using a detector, making it ideal for contractors who demand precision. It's available from Express Tools.

FIELD APPLICATIONS

What contractors use this pipe lasers for

01

Gravity Sewer

Set pipe grade from 0-25% for municipal and residential sewer

02

Storm Drain

Precise slope control for catch basin and outfall connections

03

Culvert Installation

Long-range grade reference for highway culverts

04

Bore and Jack

Directional boring and jack-and-bore grade reference

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Product Description

# Spectra Precision DG511-5 Pipe Laser w/Vertical Pole Assembly - inches **Model:** DG511-5 | **Price:** $5,795 | **Measurement:** Inches | **Mounting:** Vertical Pole Assembly ---

Overview

The Spectra Precision DG511-5 delivers professional-grade pipe laser accuracy combined with vertical pole mounting versatility for above-grade alignment work. This configuration is engineered for contractors who need elevated laser reference lines for drop connections, manhole rim alignment, and multi-level utility verification without ground-level setup constraints. The DG511-5 features a self-leveling grade laser with ±10% range, measuring in inches for precise pipe installation from 4" to 60" diameter. The integrated vertical pole assembly provides stable mounting up to 12 feet, allowing contractors to establish control lines over existing trenches, inside manholes, or at connection points where traditional tripod setups aren't practical. Unlike ground-mounted pipe lasers, this pole-mounted system eliminates sightline obstructions from equipment, materials, and workers. The DG511 transmitter generates a visible red beam with 1/16" accuracy at 100 feet, while the pole assembly features quick-lock height adjustment and 360° rotation for fast positioning on uneven terrain or inside structures.

Key Specifications

  • Accuracy: ±1/16 inch at 100 feet
  • Grade Range: ±10% (self-leveling)
  • Laser Class: Class 3R visible red beam (635nm)
  • Measurement System: Inches (imperial)
  • Pipe Diameter Range: 4" to 60"
  • Working Range: Up to 1,000 feet with detector
  • Pole Height: Extends 4.5 to 12 feet
  • Leveling System: Automatic self-leveling with out-of-level alert
  • Power: Alkaline D-cell batteries (60+ hours runtime)
  • Operating Temperature: 14°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°C)
  • IP Rating: IP67 (dust-tight, water-resistant)
  • Display: Backlit LCD with battery/grade indicators

What's in the Kit

  • DG511 Grade Laser Transmitter (inch measurement)
  • Vertical Pole Assembly with quick-lock sections
  • Pole Base Plate with leveling feet
  • Remote Control with LCD display
  • Alkaline D-Cell Battery Pack
  • Protective Carrying Case (transmitter)
  • Pole Carry Bag with shoulder strap
  • Operator's Manual and Quick Reference Guide
  • Calibration Certificate
  • Two-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Job Applications

  • Manhole Drop Connections: Position the pole inside existing manholes to establish precise invert elevations for incoming lateral pipes without scaffolding or confined space equipment intrusion
  • Multi-Level Sewer Systems: Set vertical reference lines for tiered collection systems where gravity mains transition between elevations, ensuring proper slope continuation at each grade break
  • Storm Drain Inlet Alignment: Mount above catch basin locations to verify rim-to-invert measurements and maintain consistent drainage slopes across parking lot or roadway installations
  • Overhead Utility Clearance: Establish elevated sightlines above active trenches to verify minimum separation distances between new pipe installations and existing underground utilities
  • Bridge Abutment Drainage: Position inside wing walls or abutment structures to align weep systems and underdrain outlets where conventional laser mounting isn't accessible
  • Culvert Rehabilitation: Set reference grades inside existing culverts during slip-lining or CIPP operations, allowing crews to verify invert slopes without disturbing the laser during pipe insertion

Compatible Accessories

Related Guides

FAQ

What's the advantage of pole mounting versus tripod mounting for pipe lasers?
Pole mounting elevates the laser transmitter above ground level, eliminating sightline obstructions from workers, equipment, and trench spoils. This configuration is essential for drop connections inside manholes, overhead clearance verification, and multi-level installations where the laser needs to be positioned above the working plane rather than at grade level.
Can the DG511-5 be used for both horizontal pipe installation and vertical alignment?
Yes. While primarily used for horizontal pipe grade with the pole providing elevated positioning, the DG511 can be rotated 90° on the pole mount to create plumb reference lines for shaft alignment, manhole stacking, or vertical utility runs. The self-leveling system works in both orientations within the ±10% range.
How stable is the pole assembly in outdoor conditions with wind?
The vertical pole assembly includes a weighted base plate with adjustable leveling feet for stability on uneven surfaces. For extended setups in moderate wind (10-15 mph), the system remains stable at full 12-foot extension. In higher winds or extended heights, the optional guy wire stabilizer kit is recommended to prevent vibration that could affect laser accuracy.
What's the difference between the DG511-5 (inches) and metric models?
The DG511-5 displays grades and measurements in inches and feet, matching U.S. construction plans and pipe specifications. Metric models (DG511-10) use millimeters and meters. The grade calculation, accuracy specifications, and hardware are identical—only the measurement display and remote control units differ. Choose based on your project plans and regional standards.
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Why This Equipment

IP67 Waterproof

Fully submersible — rated for trench conditions, rain, and muddy job sites.

Grade Range

Set grades from flat to steep in a single unit — no attachments or recalibration.

Remote Control

Set and adjust grade from the manhole without touching the instrument inside the pipe.

All-Day Battery

Rechargeable Li-Ion with 20+ hour runtime — one charge covers a full shift.

Why Buy This?

Grade pipe right the first time. Every time.

String-line setup takes 30–45 minutes per sewer run. A pipe laser sets in under 5 minutes and holds grade all the way to the manhole. That time savings compounds across every run you pull in a day — and every job this year.

The difference between residential-grade and professional pipe lasers isn't just range — it's grade resolution, self-centering targets, and how well the unit holds calibration when it takes a hit inside a trench. On gravity sewer that has to pass inspection, "close enough" is not an option.

Express Tools stocks authorized pipe lasers from the brands contractors trust on municipal and DOT projects. Same-day shipping, genuine factory-fresh units, and technical support if you have questions on setup or calibration.

TECHNICAL SPECS

Specifications

Technical Specs

Manufacturer data and field-verified measurements.

Accuracy±1/16 inch at 100 feet
Grade Range±10% (self-leveling)
Laser ClassClass 3R visible red beam (635nm)
Measurement SystemInches (imperial)
Pipe Diameter Range4" to 60"
Working RangeUp to 1,000 feet with detector
Pole HeightExtends 4.5 to 12 feet
Leveling SystemAutomatic self-leveling with out-of-level alert
PowerAlkaline D-cell batteries (60+ hours runtime)
Operating Temperature14°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°C)
IP RatingIP67 (dust-tight, water-resistant)
DisplayBacklit LCD with battery/grade indicators
Gradelog — AI field platform for contractors

Built for Spectra Precision equipment owners

Prove every pipe run hit grade

Log invert elevations, slope checks, and photos per run. When the city asks for as-builts, they are already done.

  • Invert & slope logging per run
  • As-built reports in one tap
  • AI assistant for grade math
Try Gradelog FreeFree to start · iPhone & Android · 8 languages

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Spectra Precision DG511-5 Pipe Laser w/Vertical Pole Assembly - inches

$5795.00

Gradelog — Earthwork Operating System

Free 30 days with every Express Tools purchase

Your equipment. Your data. All in one place.

Gradelog is the field-execution platform built for grading and earthwork crews. Log grade shots, track cut/fill, document phases with photos, and generate as-built reports — from the cab to the office.

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Gradelog dashboard — live field overview with grade shots, photos, and equipment status

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8 languages

Supported

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