Solinst Model 105 Well Casing & Depth Indicator
The Solinst Model 105 Well Casing & Depth Indicator locates magnetic metal well casing and measures total well depth using one probe. Designed for drillers, hydrogeologists, and groundwater professionals, it helps identify casing transitions and check accessible well depth during construction, inspection, and downhole equipment installation.
A magnetic assembly detects casing such as magnetic steel, while a mechanical plunger signals contact with the well bottom. Different audible and visual signal patterns distinguish the two functions. Read the corresponding depth from the graduated flat tape at the surface.
Locate Magnetic Well Casing
When the probe is next to magnetic metal casing, the meter produces rapid intermittent beeps and a flashing red light. The signals stop as the probe passes beyond the casing, allowing the operator to identify its end from the tape reading.
The casing detection function responds to magnetic metals. Solinst specifies that it does not detect PVC or stainless-steel casing.
Measure Total Well Depth
A plunger at the bottom of the probe activates slower intermittent beeps and a flashing red light when it contacts the well bottom and is pushed into the probe body. This provides a separate indication from the casing detection signal.
The reading identifies the depth reached by the probe. Sediment, obstructions, or restricted access may prevent it from reaching the original drilled bottom.
Graduated Flat Tape and Field Reel
The Model 105 uses durable, laser-marked flat tape on a reel with a carrying handle, brake, and probe holder. Choose imperial tape marked every 0.01 foot or metric tape marked every millimeter. The included tape guide protects the tape at the casing edge and provides a consistent measurement reference.
An accessible battery drawer holds a standard 9V alkaline battery. A battery test button checks the battery and main circuitry before deployment.
Choose the Right Instrument for Your Measurement
The Model 105 is intended for casing detection and bottom-contact depth measurements. If your project also requires depth to the water surface, use a dedicated Solinst water level meter alongside it.
Solinst Model 105 Technical Specifications
| Functions | Magnetic metal casing detection and total well depth indication |
|---|---|
| Casing detection signal | Rapid intermittent beeps and flashing red light |
| Bottom-contact signal | Slower intermittent beeps and flashing red light |
| Probe material | 316 stainless steel |
| Probe dimensions | 22 mm diameter × 193 mm long (7/8 inch × 7.6 inches) |
| Probe weight | Approximately 280 g (10 oz) |
| Manufacturer-stated measurement specification | ±0.06 m (0.2 ft) |
| Tape width | 10 mm (3/8 inch) |
| Imperial tape graduations | Every 0.01 ft |
| Metric tape graduations | Every 1 mm |
| Tape lengths offered | 100–2,000 ft or 30–600 m; select the required option |
| Probe submergence | Up to 500 m (1,650 ft), as listed in Solinst's online probe specifications; confirm the supplied probe rating before deeper submergence |
| Reel operating temperature | −20°C to +50°C |
| Submerged tape/probe operating temperature | −20°C to +80°C |
| Wetted materials | PVDF, Santoprene, Delrin, Viton, and 316 stainless steel |
| Reel protection rating | IP64; do not submerge the reel |
| Power | Standard 9V alkaline battery |
| Manufacturer warranty | Three years, subject to Solinst warranty terms |
Tape graduations describe the spacing of the markings, not the overall measurement accuracy. Tape length and allowable probe submergence are separate specifications.
Available Tape Lengths and Ordering Options
Select the tape length and measurement units required for your project. Allow enough tape to reach the intended measurement point while following the probe's applicable submergence rating.
| Imperial length | Part number | Metric length | Part number |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 ft | 114450 | 30 m | 114440 |
| 200 ft | 114451 | 60 m | 114441 |
| 300 ft | 114452 | 100 m | 114442 |
| 500 ft | 114453 | 150 m | 114443 |
| 750 ft | 114455 | 250 m | 114445 |
| 1,000 ft | 114456 | 300 m | 114446 |
| 1,250 ft | 114457 | 400 m | 114447 |
| 1,650 ft | 114458 | 500 m | 114448 |
| 2,000 ft | 114459 | 600 m | 114449 |
Imperial models use LM2 tape with feet and tenths marked every 0.01 ft. Metric models use LM3 tape with meters and centimeters marked every millimeter.
Applications for the Solinst 105
- Locating the end of magnetic steel well casing
- Checking accessible total well depth
- Reviewing existing well construction
- Supporting packer and downhole instrument placement
- Well installation and hydrofracturing projects
- Well decommissioning assessments
Interpret readings alongside available construction records and site conditions. Casing detection depends on magnetic material, while bottom detection requires physical contact that activates the probe plunger.
Solinst 105 vs. Water Level Meters
| Instrument | Primary measurement | Selection guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Solinst 105 | Magnetic casing location and bottom-contact well depth | Choose for casing transitions and accessible well-bottom measurements. |
| Solinst 101 P7 | Manual depth to water | Choose when locating the water surface is the main requirement. |
| Solinst 104 Sonic | Acoustic depth to static water | Choose for suitable wells where measuring without lowering a water-contact probe is preferred. |
Contact Activated Carbon Depot if your project requires both water level measurement and casing or total-depth checks.
What Comes with the Solinst Model 105?
- Solinst Model 105 reel with the selected tape length and measurement units
- Attached dual-function casing and depth probe
- 9V battery
- Tape guide
A carrying case and additional accessories are sold separately. Confirm carrying-case compatibility with the selected reel size before ordering.
Tape Accuracy and Measurement Standards
Solinst states that the Model 105 laser-marked tape meets NIST and EU measurement standards. Imperial tape is marked every 0.01 ft, while metric tape is marked every millimeter.
The tape marking interval is separate from the Model 105's manufacturer-stated measurement specification of ±0.06 m (0.2 ft). Contact Activated Carbon Depot before ordering if your project requires specific calibration or accuracy documentation.
Solinst Model 105 Downloads
Solinst Model 105 Frequently Asked Questions
The Model 105 locates magnetic metal well casing and measures accessible total well depth using a bottom-contact plunger. Both functions use the same probe.
No. It detects magnetic casing and contact with the well bottom. Use a dedicated water level meter to measure depth to the water surface.
No. Solinst specifies that the casing detection function detects magnetic metals only and does not detect PVC or stainless-steel casing.
Rapid intermittent beeps and a flashing red light occur while the probe is adjacent to magnetic casing. The signals stop when the probe passes beyond the casing. Read the depth from the tape.
The bottom plunger produces slower intermittent beeps and a flashing red light when contact pushes it into the probe body. Read the corresponding depth from the tape.
Yes. The reading reflects the point the probe reaches and where its plunger activates. Sediment or an obstruction may prevent it from reaching the original drilled bottom.
Imperial options are 100, 200, 300, 500, 750, 1,000, 1,250, 1,650, and 2,000 feet. Metric options are 30, 60, 100, 150, 250, 300, 400, 500, and 600 meters. Select the required length and units when ordering.
Choose either imperial or metric tape. Imperial tape is marked every 0.01 foot; metric tape is marked every millimeter.
No. The marking interval describes the tape graduations. Solinst lists the Model 105 measurement specification separately as ±0.06 m (0.2 ft).
The probe measures 22 mm in diameter and 193 mm long, listed by Solinst as 7/8 inch by 7.6 inches. Check clearance throughout the well before deployment.
Solinst's online probe specifications list 500 m (1,650 ft), while its downloadable datasheet states full tape length. Confirm the rating of the supplied probe before planning deeper submergence. Tape length alone does not confirm the pressure rating.
The Model 105 uses a standard 9V alkaline battery, housed in an accessible drawer on the reel faceplate.
No. The battery test checks the battery and main circuitry. Follow the operating instructions to test casing detection and the bottom plunger separately before use.
No. Keep the reel above water. Its IP64 protection rating does not make it suitable for immersion.
The package includes the reel with your selected tape length and units, attached dual-function probe, 9V battery, and tape guide.
No. Carrying cases are sold separately. Confirm the correct case for your reel size before ordering.
Yes. When using the tape guide, apply the offset marked on the guide to reference the reading to the top of the casing. Follow Solinst's instructions for the adjustment.
Solinst states that its laser-marked tape meets NIST and EU measurement standards. This is a tape-accuracy statement, rather than confirmation that the complete instrument is NIST certified or supplied with an individual calibration certificate.
Ways to Contact Us
Activated Carbon Depot
Email: sales@activatedcarbondepot.com
Phone: 949-229-2587
