| Table of content |
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| - What Is An Underground Cable Locator And How Does It Work? |
| - Types Of Underground Cable Locatos |
| - Things To Consider When Choosing An Underground Cable Locator |
As infrastructure development progresses, there is a growing need to excavate underground for construction and maintenance purposes. However, digging without proper knowledge of what's underneath can lead to expensive and hazardous situations. That's where an underground cable locator tool comes in handy.
What Is An Underground Cable Locator And How Does It Work?
An underground cable locator tool is a device that helps identify the location of underground utility lines, such as electric cables, water pipes, gas lines, and telecommunication cables. It works on the principle of electromagnetic induction and uses radio signals to detect and trace the signal emitting underground lines.
The device consists of two main components: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter sends a radio signal into the ground through a connected cable, which is then received by the receiver unit. The receiver is equipped with a sensor that picks up the signal and produces an audible and visual indication of the presence of the utility line.
When the transmitter is connected to the utility line, it sends an electromagnetic signal that is picked up by the receiver. By walking along the ground while holding the receiver, the user can follow the signal and trace the utility line's path accurately.
An underground cable locator tool can also determine the depth of the utility line. When the device detects the signal, it measures the strength of the signal, which decreases with depth. By analyzing the signal strength, the device can estimate the depth of the utility line, providing crucial information for excavation.
The device can also locate and differentiate between multiple lines that are running in parallel. By using different frequencies and modes, the device can identify the location and path of different lines, reducing the risk of damaging other utilities during excavation.
Types Of Underground Cable Locatos
There are various types of underground cable locator tools, and each is designed to serve a particular purpose. Here are some of the common types of underground cable locator tools:
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Pipe and Cable Locators. Pipe and cable locators are underground cable locator tools that use electromagnetic signals to detect buried cables and pipes. The tool consists of a transmitter that sends a signal through the cable or pipe and a receiver that detects the signal. Pipe and cable locators are ideal for locating metallic pipes and cables, and for the non-metallic such as PVC pipes and fiber optic cables you may use this PVC Pipe Detector Locator.
Mini Cable Locator
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Magnetic Locators: These types of underground cable locator tools detect magnetic fields generated by the electrical current flowing through underground cables. The tool consists of a handheld device with a sensor that detects the magnetic fields produced by the electrical current. The magnetic locator is an ideal tool for locating ferrous metal objects, such as steel pipes and cables.
Schonstedt GA-52Cx Magnetic Locator
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Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT). A cable avoidance tool, also known as a cable detector, is an underground cable locator tool that detects buried pipes and cables. The tool uses a signal generator to send a signal through the cable or pipe, which is then detected by the CAT receiver. The tool is commonly used in the construction industry to avoid accidental cable and pipe strikes.
Leica 6014157 DD130 Cable Locator Avoidance Tool
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Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). This type of underground cable locator tool uses radar waves to detect buried cables, pipes, and other objects underground. The tool emits electromagnetic waves into the ground, which reflect off the objects underground, and are picked up by the GPR antenna. GPR is a non-invasive method of locating underground objects and is commonly used in construction and utility work.
LMX200™ GPR
Things To Consider When Choosing An Underground Cable Locator
When it comes to choosing an underground cable locator, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the right tool for the job.
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Type of Cable or Pipe Being Located. Different underground cable locators are designed to locate different types of cables and pipes. For instance, magnetic locators are best for locating ferrous metal objects such as steel pipes, while pipe and cable locators can be used to find non-metallic pipes such as PVC pipes and fiber optic cables. Before choosing an underground cable locator, it is essential to identify the type of cable or pipe being located to select the right tool for the job.
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Depth of the Cable or Pipe. The depth of the cable or pipe being located is another crucial factor to consider when choosing an underground cable locator. Some underground cable locators are designed to locate cables and pipes that are close to the surface, while others are suitable for locating cables and pipes that are several meters deep. Knowing the depth of the cable or pipe being located will help you select an underground cable locator that can locate it accurately.
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Frequency Range. The frequency range of an underground cable locator refers to the range of signals that the tool can detect. Some underground cable locators have a wide frequency range and can detect signals from a range of different cables and pipes, while others have a narrow frequency range and are only suitable for locating specific types of cables and pipes. It is essential to choose an underground cable locator with a frequency range that is appropriate for the job.
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Environment. The environment in which the underground cable locator will be used is another important factor to consider. If the tool will be used in a noisy environment, it is essential to select a tool with a high signal-to-noise ratio to ensure that the signals from the cable or pipe being located are not drowned out by background noise. Similarly, if the tool will be used in a wet or humid environment, it is important to select a tool that is waterproof or has a high level of water resistance.
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Cost. The cost of the underground cable locator is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a tool. While it is essential to select a high-quality tool that can accurately locate buried cables and pipes, it is also important to select a tool that is within your budget. It is important to balance the cost of the tool with its features and capabilities to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
In conclusion, selecting the right underground cable locator is essential to ensure that construction and utility work is carried out safely and efficiently. By considering factors such as the type of cable or pipe being located, depth, frequency range, environment, and cost, you can select an underground cable locator that is suitable for the job at hand. With the right tool, you can avoid accidental damage to buried cables and pipes, save time, and reduce costs.