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Electromagnetic utility locating is a method used to detect underground utilities by inducing an electromagnetic signal onto a utility line and then detecting that signal with a receiver. This method is effective for locating metallic utilities, such as metal pipes and cables. The equipment can trace the path of the utility and provide information about its depth and location.

Yes, electromagnetic locating can be used on live lines. In fact, it works particularly well on live electrical lines and other metallic utilities that are actively carrying a current. The electromagnetic signal induced onto the line can be easily detected by the receiver, allowing for accurate locating.

Locating empty conduit can be challenging because it does not carry a signal naturally. However, we can often locate it by using specialized techniques such as inserting a locating Sonde or traceable rodder into the conduit and then using electromagnetic locating equipment to trace the rodder.

Once utilities are located, we mark them on the ground using standardized color codes for different types of utilities. These markings are typically done with paint and flags:

• Red: Electric power lines, cables, conduit, and lighting cables
• Yellow: Gas, oil, steam, petroleum, or other gaseous materials
• Orange: Communication, alarm or signal lines, cables, or conduit
• Blue: Potable water
• Green: Sewers and drain lines
• White: Proposed excavation sites

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a non-destructive method that uses radar pulses to image the subsurface. It can detect a wide range of materials, including metal, plastic, concrete, and soil variations. GPR is used for locating utilities, assessing structural integrity, and more.

GPR is a highly versatile tool, but its effectiveness can be influenced by soil conditions. It works best in dry, sandy soils and can be less effective in clayey, wet, or highly conductive soils. Despite these limitations, GPR is still one of the most effective tools for subsurface detection.

While GPR and concrete scanning often use similar technology, GPR is a broader term that refers to radar-based detection of various subsurface materials. Concrete scanning specifically uses high-frequency GPR to detect and map objects within concrete structures, such as rebar, post-tension cables, and conduits.

Yes, we use high-resolution sewer cameras with attached locating Sonde to travel through the sewer lines, we can see any other connection points with the camera and locate them with the Sonde.

Yes, we inspect sewer lines using high-resolution inspection cameras. These cameras travel through the sewer lines, providing real-time video footage and detailed images of the interior condition, helping to identify blockages, leaks, or structural issues.

Yes, both GPR and electromagnetic locating can provide depth information for buried utilities. The depth is calculated based on the time it takes for the signal to return to the receiver and other factors so should only be used for reference.

We map utilities by collecting data with a Trimble R2 GIS receiver.  This data is then processed and plotted onto digital files such as KMZ files for Google Earth, or Shape files to provide a comprehensive view of the underground utility layout.

Locating PVC water lines can be challenging, but GPR can sometimes find them depending on several factors, if that does not work, we can use acoustic methods to induce vibrations to the line and use sensitive listening equipment to find the line.

Yes, we can locate gas lines using electromagnetic locating on steel gas lines or polyethylene gas lines with a trace wire. We can also use GPR on steel lines.

Yes, we can locate ground faults in direct buried electrical lines by using specialized fault locating equipment. This equipment can detect the exact location of a fault, helping to minimize excavation and repair efforts.