milwaukee RL1220 Dual Grade Rotary Laser Instruction Manual

: August 18, 2024
: Milwaukee

Table of Contents

milwaukee RL1220 Dual Grade Rotary Laser Instruction Manual
SAFETY
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
SYMBOLOGY
SPECIFICATIONS
ASSEMBLY
OPERATION
Troubleshooting
MAINTENANCE
ACCESSORIES
- References
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milwaukee RL1220 Dual Grade Rotary Laser Instruction Manual

Cat. No.
M18 RL1220

M18™ DUAL GRADE ROTARY LASER 1,220M (4000′) RED

WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand operator’s manual.

SAFETY

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING

Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below, may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

Save these instructions This operator’s manual contains important safety and operating instructions.

LASER SAFETY

WARNING

The device produces visible laser beams, which are emitted from the tool.

This device complies with AS/NZS IEC 60825.1, Class 2 Laser.
Laser light – Do not stare into beam or view directly with optical instruments. Do not point laser light at others. Laser light can cause eye damage.

WORK AREA SAFETY

Ensure adequate safeguards at the work site (e.g. surveying site when measuring on roads, construction sites, etc.).
Avoid dangerous environments. Avoid extended exposure to rain, snow, damp or wet locations. Do not use in the presence of explosive atmospheres (gaseous fumes, dust or flammable materials).

PERSONAL SAFETY

Do not allow persons unfamiliar with the tool, these safety instructions, and the tool’s operator’s manual to operate the tool. This tool can be dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the tool in unexpected situations.

BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE

Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified. Damaged or modified batteries may exhibit unpredictable behaviour resulting in fire, explosion or risk of injury.
Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperature above 130°C (265°F) may cause explosion.
Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions.
Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
Store your battery and tool in a cool, dry place.
Do not store battery where temperatures may exceed 50°C (120°F) such as in direct sunlight, a vehicle or metal building during the summer.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR ROTARY LASER LEVELS

CAUTION

Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
Be sure to power off instrument after use. When instrument will not be used for a long period, place it in storage after removing batteries.
Watch out for erroneous results if the tool is defective or if it has been dropped, misused or modified.
Do not dispose of tool or batteries together with household waste material! Tool and batteries that have reached the end of their life must be collected separately and returned to an environmentally compatible recycling facility.
Chemical Burn Hazard. Keep coin cell battery away from children.
If using with a lanyard, do not exceed maximum capacity marked on the lanyard label. Always determine the weight of the product, with all accessories, when selecting the appropriate lanyard system. Exceeding maximum capacity may result in serious injury. See specifications for tool and battery weight.
For best results, use only with energy absorbing lanyards. Ropes, straps or chains may break and cause failure. Do not use with lanyards at full tension.
To reduce the risk of injury, when working in dusty situations, wear appropriate respiratory protection or use a suitable dust extraction solution.
Always use common sense and be cautious when using tools. It is not possible to anticipate every situation that could result in a dangerous outcome. Do not use this tool if you do not understand these operating instructions or you feel the work is beyond your capability; contact MILWAUKEE® Tool or a trained professional for additional information or training.
Maintain labels and nameplates. These carry important information. If unreadable or missing, contact a MILWAUKEE® service facility for a replacement.

ADDITIONAL BATTERY SAFETY RULES

WARNING To reduce the risk of fire, personal injury, and product damage due to a short circuit, never immerse your tool, battery pack or charger in fluid or allow a fluid to flow inside them. Corrosive or conductive fluids, such as seawater, certain industrial chemicals, and bleach or bleach- containing products, etc., can cause a short circuit.

WARNING

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

Short lanyard attachment handles
Plumb dot aperture window
X/Y iron sights
Laser aperture window
Protective foam handles
LCD screen
Menu button
Leveling mode button
5/8″-11 mounting insert (2)
ONE-KEY™ coin cell compartment
ONE-KEY™ indicator LED
Grade button
ON/OFF button
D-pad
Protective foam top bumper
Battery door
Battery door turn lock

SYMBOLOGY

SPECIFICATIONS

ASSEMBLY

WARNING Recharge only with the charger specified for the battery. For specific charging instructions, read the operator’s manual supplied with your charger and battery.

Inserting/Removing the Battery

To insert the battery, slide the pack into the body of the tool. Make sure it latches securely into place.

WARNING Only use accessories specifically recommended for this tool.
Others may be hazardous.

To remove the battery, push in the release buttons and pull the battery pack away from the tool.

WARNING Always remove the battery pack any time the tool is not in use.

Mounting the Rotary Laser

The rotary laser can be mounted to a tripod or Rotary Laser Wall Mount:

If working overhead, ensure the laser is secure before operating and attached to a MILWAUKEE® 15 kg (min) rated energy absorbing lanyard.
Ensure the laser and accessories are on a stable surface.
Use the 5/8″-11 threaded insert to mount the laser on a tripod or Rotary Laser Wall Mount.

Lanyard Attachments

Laser Orientation
The rotary laser can operate in horizontal and vertical plane orientations. When in Auto-Leveling Mode, the laser will adjust to create a level or plumb plane, respectively. When placed in vertical orientation, the laser will default to a Plumb Point Mode for setup. To project a vertical line, select a Rotational Speed from the Menu.

NOTE: The laser will only work in one specific vertical orientation, with the keypad facing up and parallel to the working surface. Other orientations will result in a leveling error.

ONE-KEY™
To learn more about the ONE-KEY™ functionality for this tool, go to www.milwaukeetool.com.au/innovation/one-key/. To download the ONE-KEY™ app, visit the App Store® or Google Play™ from your smart device.

OPERATION

WARNING To reduce the risk of injury or temporary effects on vision, do not look directly into the laser when it is on.

CAUTION Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

NOTICE: Perform the Accuracy Field Check procedure immediately upon unboxing of each new laser and before exposure to jobsite conditions. See “Accuracy Field Check” for information. Should any deviation from listed product accuracy be found, please contact an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre. Failure to do so could result in rejection of warranty claim.

Icons

Turning the Remote ON/OFF

To turn the remote control ON, press the ON/OFF button. Once the button is pressed, the backlight will turn on.
If the remote has no connection, a screen first displays “no connection” warning for 3 seconds. The warning will clear after 3 seconds, or press OK or “menu” buttons to clear the warning.
If the remote has connection, a screen is displayed and will default to grade mode.
To turn the remote OFF, press and hold the ON/OFF button until the remote turns off.

Turning the Rotary Laser ON/OFF

To turn the laser ON, insert battery and press the ON/OFF button. Once the button is pressed, an audible tone will sound.
When powered on, the laser will begin the leveling sequence. The laser will attempt to re-pair with its last paired remote and detector.
To turn the laser OFF, press and hold the ON/OFF button. The laser diode will turn off, the head will stop rotating, and the LCD screen will turn off.

Pairing the Rotary Laser with the Remote

It is recommended that the laser is paired with the remote and detector to use the laser to its full potential.

NOTE: The laser will default to the high sensitivity setting. Set up the laser on a flat and stable surface to avoid interruptions in operation. If the bump alarm becomes overly sensitive for environmental conditions, the setting can be changed via remote or laser. Select the bump setting icon from the main menu. Use the up/down arrows to select high or low setting.

Clearing the Bump Alarm (Option 1):
Press the leveling mode button, and the laser will begin the auto-leveling sequence. Additional setup may be needed if the laser was moved from its previous position.

Clearing the Bump Alarm (Option 2):
If the user suspects the laser has not been significantly disturbed, inspect the laser plane to determine if it has been moved to determine if re-set up is needed by pressing the ok or menu button to clear alarm and restart laser in current position and leveling mode.

NOTE: The laser will recall previous settings that were applied.

Alignment Mode

Alignment mode can be used with the laser in horizontal orientation (to slope), or vertical mode (to align).

Auto-Leveling Mode

When the laser initially turns on, the laser will automatically start to self- level.

During the leveling process, the Bump Alarm will not be active. When the laser is leveled, the laser head will start to rotate. Once the laser head is up to the selected RPM speed, the laser will be ready for use.
If the leveling process fails either by the one-minute timer or out of leveling range, the laser head turns off, stops rotating, and an audible tone will sound.

NOTE: If the laser fails to level, ensure the laser is on a stable surface. This error occurs when the working surface causes the laser to be outside the leveling range. Pressing the Leveling Mode button or power cycling the laser to trigger a re-level can solve the problem. If the problem persists, please contact an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre for support.

5. Repeat for the “+X”, then the “-Y”. After the “-Y” is completed, the “complete” screen will appear on the laser and remote. Press the OK button, the settings will be saved, and the laser will power off.

Recalibrating the Vertical (Z) Axis:

Hang a plumb bob line at least 10 m (30′) in length from the ceiling. Press the OK button to continue. Ensure that the laser is aligned with the reference line and is at least 2 m (6′) from the plumb bob line. Press the OK button to continue.
Allow a few seconds for the laser to enter calibration mode. When ready, the laser will begin to rotate and the left or right and OK button on the LCD screen will become selectable. Use the arrow buttons to slowly adjust the laser plane so that it’s parallel with the reference plumb bob line. Once aligned, press and hold the OK button to complete calibration.
When calibration is complete, the screen will say “complete”; press the OK button. The settings will be saved and the laser will be powered off. Perform “Accuracy Field Check” to ensure calibration was done correctly.

NOTE: If calibration fails, the screen on the laser and remote will prompt users to restart the calibration process. If calibration fails multiple times, contact an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre. Press the main menu button to abort the procedure.

Troubleshooting

Ensure the battery is installed correctly. The fuel gauge of the battery should indicate the remaining charge when correctly installed.
Ensure the battery is charged.
Startup Failure – If the laser displayed “cal. error” warning immediately after powering on the tool, this is an indication of a system error, return the tool to an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre.
Leveling Error – The leveling error screen appears, and the alarm will sound. Ensure that the laser is on a level surface and the job site is clear of obstacles. If setting up in the vertical orientation, ensure the laser is in the correct orientation. The laser will only work in one orientation, with the keypad facing up and parallel to the ground. Try the auto-leveling process again, or power cycling the laser to clear the setting. If this fails, return the laser to an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre.
Slope Error – A slope error will occur if the combination of the adjusted grade and the laser incline is set up to exceed the laser core’s leveling limitations. Pressing the Grade, or OK button will clear the warning and start the self-leveling sequence. Once Level, the laser or remote will display the home/grade screen with values set to 0. The laser is now in auto mode. Ensure the laser is on a level surface and check that the desired slope is within manufacturing specifications before attempting to slope the laser again.
General Alarm – “See manual” will flash on the screen and an alarm tone will play. Return the tool to an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre.
Bump Alarm Too Sensitive – Ensure the laser is on a level and stable surface. Try changing to a less sensitive setting. Clear the bump alarm by using one of the options from “Clearing the Bump Alarm” section. If this fails, return the laser to an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre.

Temperature Alarm – If the temperature screen appears, ensure the laser is within the operating temperature range. Note that the internal temperature of the tool may be 5 – 10° warmer than the ambient temperature. If stored in excessive heat or cold, allow at least 2 hours to acclimate to ambient temperature before turning on the tool.

• ONE-KEY™ Lock Out – The laser will turn on briefly but shut down after around 15 seconds. The ONE-KEY™ indication LED will be flashing red. This is an indication that the laser is locked out. Use the ONE-KEY™ app to connect and unlock the tool.

Pairing Failure:

Ensure the detector is powered on, within the distance range and in pairing mode.
Avoid artificial overhead lighting reaching the detector sensor.
Avoid the laser projecting a beam onto the detector sensor during pairing.
Avoid other transmitting devices.
Place the laser on a stable surface during pairing to prevent interruption from bump alarms. For best results, pair in the horizontal orientation.

NOTE: If all the recommended troubleshooting fails, power cycle the laser with the ON/OFF button. Try removing/ re-inserting the battery to restart the tool. If problem persists, please contact an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre.

ACCURACY FIELD CHECK
NOTICE Perform the Accuracy Field Check procedure immediately upon unboxing of each new laser and before exposure to jobsite conditions. Should any deviation from listed product accuracy be found, please contact an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre. Failure to do so could result in rejection of warranty claim.

Influences on Accuracy

Ambient temperature changes can impact laser accuracies. For accurate and repeatable results, the following procedure should be conducted with the laser elevated off the ground and placed in the centre of the working area. Abusive treatment of the laser, such as excessive impacts from drops, can also lead to deviations in product accuracy. Therefore, it’s recommended to conduct the field check procedure after any impacts or before completing any critical jobs.

NOTE: Accuracies and leveling times are measured at ambient temperatures (20°C). Use of the tool at extreme temperatures (even within the operating temperature range) may negatively impact these specifications.

Leveling Accuracy for Horizontal Orientation
A tripod for this operation is suggested. Use a distance of 30 m between the centre of the laser and a wall. Ensure the area is clear of objects before doing this operation. This procedure must be performed twice to check the plane accuracy for both the X and Y axes.

Mount the laser on a tripod.
Turn the laser ON by pressing the ON/OFF button, and wait for the self-leveling sequence to finish.
Mark the centre of the beam on the wall (Point I). If the laser is not visible, use a compatible detector to find the plane and mark the centre point.

4. Rotate the laser 180o, without changing height, and wait for self-leveling to finish. Mark the centre of the beam on the wall (Point II). Ensure point II is as vertical as possible above or below point I.
5. Measure the vertical distance, (d) between Point “I” and Point “II”. This is the actual height deviation of the laser in the axis checked over 60 m. The maximum deviation allowed should be 3.2 mm at 60 m (or 1.6 mm at 30 m).

6. Repeat the steps above for the other axis. NOTE: If any of the above accuracies are out of spec, return to an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre for recalibration.

Leveling Accuracy for Vertical Orientation

Ensure the area is clear of obstructions before doing this operation. Attach a Plumb Bob to the ceiling near a wall. The Plumb Bob should be a minimum of 9 m in length.

Ensure the work area is on a flat, clean surface.
Place the laser in the correct vertical orientation with the keypad facing up and parallel to the ground. If possible, elevate off the ground. Be sure the setup is stable before proceeding to the next step.
Turn ON the laser by pressing the ON/OFF button, and wait for the self-leveling sequence to finish. The leveling animation will complete, and will enter plumb dot mode.
Enter RPM mode by selecting the desired speed from the RPM menu and press the OK button to start the laser head rotation. Manually turn the tool to align the laser, so it crosses the plumb bob line at least 9 m above the ground.
Measure the distance between the Plumb Bob string and the laser at the base of the wall. This distance represents the laser’s actual deviation from plumb. The maximum deviation allowed should be 1.2 mm over 9 m (or 3.2 mm at 30 m).

For the measuring distance of 2 x 4.5 m = 9 m, the maximum allowable deviation (d) is: 9 m x ±1.2 mm ÷ 9 m = ±1.2 mm.

NOTE: If any of the above accuracies are out of spec, return to an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre for recalibration.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING To reduce the risk of injury, always unplug the charger and remove the battery pack from the charger or tool before performing any maintenance. Never disassemble the battery pack, charger, or tool, except as provided in these instructions. Contact a MILWAUKEE® service centre for ALL repairs.

Maintain Rotary Laser

Maintain tools. If damaged, have the tool repaired at an authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre before use. Accidents may be caused by poorly maintained tools.

ONE-KEY™

WARNING Chemical Burn Hazard. This device contains a lithium button/coin cell battery. A new or used battery can cause severe in-ternal burns and lead to death in as little as 2 hours if swallowed or enters the body. Always secure the battery cover. If it does not close securely, stop using the device, remove the batteries, and keep it away from children. If you think batteries may have been swallowed or en-tered the body, seek immediate medical attention.

Internal Coin Cell Battery
An internal coin cell battery is used to facilitate full ONE-KEY™ functionality.

To replace the coin cell battery:

Remove tool’s battery to avoid starting the tool.
Loosen the screw(s) and open the coin cell battery door.
Remove the old coin cell battery, keep it away from children, and dispose of it properly.
Insert the new coin cell battery (3V CR2032), follow the indicators on the battery door.
Close the battery door and tighten the screw(s) securely.

Cleaning
Clean dust and debris from vents. Keep handles clean, dry and free of oil or grease. Use only mild soap and a damp cloth to clean, since certain cleaning agents and solvents are harmful to plastics and other insulated parts. Some of these include petrol, turpentine, lacquer thinner, paint thinner, chlorinated cleaning solvents, ammonia and household detergents containing ammonia. Never use flammable or combustible solvents around tools.

Cleaning the Aperture Windows

Blow off any loose particles with clean compressed air. Carefully wipe the surface with a cotton swab moistened with water.

Calibration and Repairs
For Calibration or Repair, return the tool, battery pack, and charger to nearest authorised MILWAUKEE® service centre.

ACCESSORIES

WARNING Use only recommended accessories. Others may be hazardous. For a complete listing of accessories, go online to milwaukeetool.com.au / milwaukeetool.co.nz or contact a distributor.

WARRANTY – AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND

Please refer to Australian and New Zealand warranty supplied with tool. This warranty applies only to product sold by authorised dealers in Australia and New Zealand.

SERVICE – AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND

MILWAUKEE® prides itself in producing a premium quality product that is Nothing But Heavy DutyTM. Your satisfaction with our products is very important to us! If you encounter any problems with the operation of this tool, please contact your authorised MILWAUKEE® dealer.

For a list of MILWAUKEE® dealers, guarantee or service agents please contact MILWAUKEE® Customer Service or visit our website.
(Australia Toll Free Telephone Number 1300 645 928)
(New Zealand Toll Free Telephone Number 0800 645 928) or visit milwaukeetool.com.au/milwaukeetool.co.nz.

Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
13135 West Lisbon Road, Brookfield, Wisconsin U.S.A. 53005

Milwaukee Tool (Australia)

26 – 40 Nina Link, Dandenong South, Victoria, 3175, Australia

Milwaukee Tool (New Zealand)
274 Church Street, Penrose,
Auckland, 1061, New Zealand

DESIGNED BY MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP. PROFESSIONALLY MADE IN CHINA
PRINTED IN CHINA

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