Leak Detectors
Portable ground microphone
The Tmic ground microphone from Fluid Conservation Systems allows technicians to hear sounds from a water distribution network otherwise inaudible to the human ear. The sensor tip can be connected magnetically to a listening rod or placed directly on the pipe or valve, transmitting the leak noise to the operator’s headset via Bluetooth. Its onboard memory stores noise levels and displays the information on the LED display, allowing instant comparison between previous and current spot readings to identify points of interest. It is supplied with a range of listening rod extensions to suit different applications, and includes a built-in LED flashlight for operation in low light conditions. 800/531-5465; www.fluidconservation.com.
Line assessment tool
The Sewer Line Rapid Assessment Tool (SL-RAT) from InfoSense Inc. is an acoustic inspection technology that can improve pipe inspection and condition assessment for collection systems. The device is used to make blockage assessments in 6- to 12-inch gravity-fed sanitary sewer lines in less than three minutes, with no flow contact or confined-space entry. The acoustic score for the segment ranges from 0 to 10 (0 – blocked, 10 – fully open pipe), and is typically used to help prioritize cleaning and CCTV inspection needs. 877/747-3245; www.infosenseinc.com.
Leak location system
The Leak Location System from Lansas Products can systematically locate leaks in water or sewer lines. The system includes an air motor-driven hose reel (manual hose reel is optional) with 500 feet of color-coded triple-test hose and a three-way air swivel mounted on a heavy-duty welded frame. The manhole winch with footage counter indicates the precise location of leaks. Hydraulically actuated, heavy-duty manhole jacks will keep the triple test hose and winch cables from damage while in use. All the operator needs do is select the appropriate size pipe plugs required and begin testing. 800/452-4902; www.lansas.com.
Sensitive leak detector
The sensitive LD30 leak detector from MyTana Mfg. Company features a six-band frequency selector that helps match its listening range to the leak. Originally developed for the nuclear power industry, the unit comes complete with two sensors, various probe rods and a convenient case to keep it protected when not in use. 800/328-8170; www.mytana.com.
Camera locator
The 8873 cable, pipe, camera and sonde locator from Rycom Instruments Inc. offers two versions of the dual active frequency packages – 512 Hz and 82 kHz or 512 Hz and 33 kHz – ensuring the ability to track any manufacturer’s camera or sonde system operating on 512 Hz. They can be used to locate pinches and blocks in nonpressurized conduits and pipes, as sonde frequencies are matched to the frequency of the receiver. Sondes at all frequencies will trace through conduit up to 20 feet in the air or 10 feet in cast iron. The receiver pinpoints inspection cameras and sondes in nonmetallic conduits in a peak mode. A backlit digital display provides both relative and actual signal strength. A variable tone pitch gives an audio indication to the signal. The triple antennae configuration provides push-button depth accurate up to 15 feet and works in peak, pinpoint peak and null modes when used with a transmitter. 800/851-7347; www.rycominstruments.com.
Digital water leak detector
The LD-18 digital water leak detector from SubSurface Locators reduces ambient, intermittent noises from dogs barking, cars passing by, footsteps, and people talking. Its digital electronics sample the sounds every few thousandths of a second, and if it detects an intermittent sound, it suppresses it instantly. Water leak sounds are almost always continuous noises, and the unit can identify the continuous leak sounds even in difficult conditions, like busy streets. 775/298-2701; www.subsurfaceleak.com.
Electronic Line Locators
Utility locating system
The UtiliGuard utility locating system from Ditch Witch features ambient interference measurement (AIM) that automatically scans the surrounding area for noise and recommends the best frequency among its 70 options. It measures distances (depth) both horizontally and vertically to the utility to help users make more accurate locates of obstructed utilities. The system has a six-button, multilanguage operator interface and a high-contrast LCD display to ensure visibility in all conditions, including direct sunlight. A dual-output feature allows users to connect the transmitter to two utilities at once, and the system is Bluetooth-enabled to simplify data transfers. Its housing has an IP65 rating. 800/654-6481; www.ditchwitch.com.
Pipe locator
The Gen-Eye Hot Spot pipe locator from General Pipe Cleaners features an easy-to-see auto backlit LCD display, with a Null icon that indicates the pipe location and Camera icon that confirms you’re over the target. Rated at IP65, it’s dust and dirt proof and water resistant. It has passed the 1-meter drop test while the screen passed the 18-inch steel ball drop test. Its total field antenna array allows operators to locate from any direction. Its line direction compass indicates the lay of the pipe. It features superior battery life, and locates two sonde frequencies, two power frequencies and four line frequencies. Operators can use the USB port to upgrade software in the field. 800/245-6200; www.drainbrain.com.
High dynamic range locator
The Easy Locator HDR from MALA GeoScience USA features a single-frequency transducer that allows the detection and imaging of targets from small near-surface service connections to deeper larger-transmission facilities. Users can zoom in for visualization of small near-surface targets or out for maximum range to view the deepest targets. The detection limits span a broader range of various-size utility targets, particularly nonmetallic, nonconductive utilities such as plastic, asphalt composite, concrete, terracotta and more. Other features include a built-in DGPS receiver and upgradeable GPS Mapper software for mapping utilities marked digitally. The screen-capture function allows users to turn screen shots into JPGs to record and archive a location on the screen. A rough terrain cart (RTC) is available, as well as a portable foldable version outfitted for urban streetscapes. 843/852-5021; www.malags.com.
Pipe inspection software
PipeLogix software from PipeLogix Inc. offers the power to cost-effectively collect data and accurately evaluate underground infrastructure assets. It is PACP certified, works with all CCTV systems and is backed by after-sales technical support. Data can be captured, analyzed and shared about mainlines, laterals, manholes, grout and inclinometer surveys. The program offers various reporting features. Built-in GIS tools enable the user to import accurate asset details from map programs directly into the pipe survey form; export shape files or feature classes in geodatabases from the program based on completed surveys, defect types, new assets found or pipe score values; and easily identify surveyed pipes on maps with color coding. A specially designed tool bar can be added to ESRI ArcMap to quickly filter survey data. Movies, reports or survey detail can be viewed within ArcMap. The program also interfaces with many popular industry standard asset management programs. 866/299-3150; www.pipelogix.com.
Frequency-sniffing line finder
The LineFinder LF2200 from Prototek locates any frequency sonde or transmitter box between 16 Hz and 100 kHz using its frequency-sniffing feature. It features preset support of 16 Hz (steel or ductile iron as well as cast-iron and nonmetallic), 512 Hz (cast-iron or nonmetallic) and 8 kHz (nonmetallic only) sondes. It traces underground metallic lines at four built-in industry-standard frequencies using an external transmitter box; other frequencies can be sniffed as well. It passively locates underground power at 50 or 60 Hz. Its power frequency, as well as scaling in English or metric units, is user selectable. A series of LCD screens guides the operator through the steps to locate both sondes and lines with accurate position, as well as precise depth. Locating is enhanced by handle vibration and LED feedback at key locating points, in addition to on-screen imagery. It uses six off-the-shelf AA alkaline batteries. 800/541-9123; www.prototek.net.
Utility line locator
The AML (All Materials Locator) from SubSurface Instruments utilizes high-frequency radio waves to penetrate the ground and detect buried PVC pipes, septic lines, water mains, cables, wires and any other conductive or non-conductive material. It has three sensitivity settings for varying conditions, LED target indicators and a laser target indicator to pinpoint subsurface objects. It will function in clay, wet soil, snow and standing water without the need for a separate transmitter and receiver, wires or clamps. 855/422-6346; www.ssilocators.com.
Transmitters
Location sensor
Location sensors from RICO GmbH are available on all of the company’s camera systems. They have a standard frequency of 32.768 kHz for time measurement, matching most commercial location systems, meaning the user doesn’t need a specialized system. All camera systems feature the smallest useable diameter on pushrod cameras (2 inch) up to the biggest pipes with crawler cameras (800 inch) using the same frequency. www.rico-gmbh.de.
Smoke Locators
Steel-body smoke tester
The Power Smoker from Hurco Technologies is designed to smoke test sewer lines quickly and cost-effectively. Using laboratory-tested safe LiquiSmoke and a SuperJet muffler, the system offers virtually a 100 percent burn of the LiquiSmoke. A solid cast-aluminum impeller provides durability and maximum air movement. Models are available to produce up to 8,761 cfm at 3.0 static pressure. It is made with steel for toughness, and a bright yellow ring for visibility when sitting in the street. It comes complete with full support, training materials and PSA kits. 800/888-1436; www.gethurco.com.
Smoke fluid system
Superior Smoke Fluid Systems from Superior Signal Company are used to find faults and sources of surface water inflow in collection systems. The smoke fluid is both high quality and economically priced. All blowers are engineered for smoke testing. Systems use a double-insulated heating chamber with stainless steel injector to maximize dry smoke output. The system meets WEF and NASSCO standards, and is widely used in tests to meet EPA, ASHRAE, OSHA and NFPA standards. 800/945-8378; www.superiorsignal.com.
Manhole smoke blower
The Turbo-Fog MH-75 from Turbo Fog, a division of Kingscote Chemicals, is a self-contained smoke tester for easily identifying leaks, infiltration and cross connections in municipal collection lines. The smoke testing system uses leak-proof liquid aerosol smoke cartridges to create dense white smoke. No additional smoke bombs or garden sprayers are required. Made of 11-gauge powder-coated steel, the blower is capable of generating over 7,500 cfm to accurately test more pipe in less time. Briggs & Stratton and Honda engine models are available. 800/394-0678; www.turbo-fog.com.
Push TV Camera Systems
Portable pipe inspection camera
The Viztrac II pipe inspection camera from Amazing Machinery features 200 feet of durable 1/2-inch push cable with fiberglass rod inner core, a 20-inch cage reel and attached water-sealed case containing the controls, a high-resolution 7-inch LCD monitor and wheels to increase mobility. It also has a 1-inch powder-coated lay-flat frame with upright carry handle; a 1 3/8-inch O.D. metal camera housing; nine dimmable high-output 5 mm LED lights; high-resolution color camera; scratch-resistant sapphire glass lens; high-grade 512 Hz sonde locator with an average range of 12 to 15 feet; and an integrated digital video recorder with remote control, compatible with most standard SD cards. 800/504-7435; www.amazingmachinery.com.
Lightweight push camera system
The SEEKER system from Aries Industries is a user-friendly, contractor-grade examination tool for pipes from 3 to 24 inches in diameter and up to 300 feet in length. It can be operated as a stand-alone system or in conjunction with a CCTV truck to record all of the video to a PC or laptop. When used as a stand-alone unit, it is a self-contained system with no external wiring. Weighing as little as 40 pounds, it is easily transported to any job site and comes standard with a built-in 512 Hz transmitting beacon and bright 6.4-inch LCD screen. It offers either a self-leveling camera with either a ball skid or a roller skid, or a self-cleaning pan and tilt camera with wireless control. Options include digital video recording, on-screen footage, wireless video transmission up to 300 feet away, rechargeable battery, PAL video and live-line tracing. 800/234-7205; www.ariesindustries.com.
Go-anywhere inspection system
The P800 portable inspection system from Cobra Technologies has all the functionality of a truck-mounted system in a compact go-anywhere package. The unit has full data collection capabilities, operates with any Cobra crawler and camera combination and is easy to maneuver with its collapsible heavy-duty handle. Its portable platform allows access to locations normally inaccessible to conventional equipment, or the system can be mounted on any range of vehicles, ATVs or trailers. It can provide 600 to 1,000 feet of cable, and is outfitted with a 10.4-inch sunlight-readable monitor. 800/443-3761; www.cobratec.com.
Portable lateral and mini-mainline push system
The MPlus+ from CUES is a lateral and mini-mainline push system that enables easy operation with an all-in-one setup, but additionally offers flexibility by facilitating quick removal of the control unit to be used separately for off-road or remote job sites, or to accommodate compact storage. The system features video titling, video observation coding, digital recording and portability. This lightweight system includes large and durable wheels and a balanced footprint for stability. 800/327-7791; www.cuesinc.com.
Rotation-head push camera system
The Valu-Pac IV push camera system from Cyclops Electronics Inc. features a rotation-head color camera that is able to inspect 6- to 24-inch lines with its built-in lights. It can be mounted on a heavy-duty transporter with forward/neutral/reverse capability and features powered rewind and auto-level wind to the reel plus keyboard data and on-screen footage to the controller. An auxiliary light controller increases its capabilities to 48-inch lines. The package includes 500 feet of TV cable, camera controller w/sound recording and light control, 15-inch LCD monitor and DVD recorder/player, 5- to 18-inch adjustable skid, 500-foot TV tow cable and mechanical footage counter. Options include large line wheel kits, weights and lift kit, increased traction wheels, a 150-foot pushrod and system analyzer. 830/249-9756; www.cyclopstv.com.
Pipe inspection camera
The EasyCAM E3200 was designed from a plumber and drain cleaner’s perspective, using easily replaceable modular components. When repairs are needed the owner can easily do them, as no special tools are needed. It includes a lightweight titanium color camera head for further distance, 200 feet of HYTREL abrasion-resistant pushrod with molded waterproof connectors, 512 Hz transmitter, onboard 8-inch daylight-readable monitor, powder-coated aircraft aluminum frame, RCA video jack for laptop or DVR use, safe 12-volt operation, heavy-duty wheels and a two-year warranty. 239/260-2056; www.easycamllc.com.
Pipeline inspection system
The Ecam ACE 2 pipeline inspection system from Electric Eel Mfg. features one-touch USB recording, an on-screen footage counter and a wheel kit. It also features a stainless steel-housed 1.68-inch color camera with sapphire lens, 20 LED light ring and high-resolution CCD element (with an optional self-leveling color camera available), 200 feet of Kevlar-braided 1/2-inch pushrod, a 512 Hz sonde, 5.4-inch LCD monitor encased in an anodized aluminum housing mounted to the reel, a protective acrylic antiglare monitor shield, a video output jack for recording option, flexible camera spring to navigate 3-inch P-traps, a secure-locking reel brake and a centering skid. 800/833-1212; www.electriceel.com.
Remote pan-and-tilt push camera
The camera head of the VeriSight Pro 360 from Envirosight remotely pans and tilts to give an operator maximum maneuverability when inspecting drainlines. A joystick on the control unit rotates it continuously and tilts it plus or minus 135 degrees. Versions are available with 130, 200 and 330 inches of push cable. Its digital interface displays real-time inspection footage on an 8-inch LCD, records up to 90 hours of inspection video to internal memory and allows an operator to enter observation data for upload to WinCan. A customizable interface lets operators zoom three times on live or recorded video, capture still images, configure the 16-page text writer, browse thumbnail galleries and select among several available languages. A tri-band sonde transmits at 33 kHz, 512 Hz or 640 Hz. The system runs off line or vehicle power, or an internal rechargeable battery. 866/936-8476; www.envirosight.com.
Lay-flat-reel camera system
The FB-PIC3588A camera system from Forbest Products Co. features a lay-flat reel. It comes with 150 feet of 3/8-inch fiberglass cable with a footage counter and stand. The high-resolution 7/8-inch waterproof metal color camera head (with optional 512 Hz sonde transmitter) is designed to inspect 1 1/2-inch or larger sewer and drainlines. The heavy-duty waterproof control box includes a bright 7-inch LCD color screen and a built-in SD card recorder with one-touch recording for photos and videos. The LED lights on the camera head are easily adjustable, and on-screen status indicators include footage counter and battery strength. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts about four hours. 650/757-4786; www.forbestusa.net.
Daylight-readable monitor
The Magnum DVR command module from Hathorn Corporation features USB recording and a navigation menu that is simple to use and easy to learn. With its 10.4-inch daylight-readable monitor, images can be seen clearly in bright sunlight. The system features a full-size keyboard, 16 pages of text writing, 512 Hz sonde, on-screen footage counter, an 8X zoom, microphone, speaker and a two-hour built-in battery with smart charger. There are several different reel options available, along with three different camera head sizes. The command module can also be programed to work with other manufacturers’ reels. 905/886-2835; www.hathorncorp.com.
LCD-display camera system
The Smart Display camera system from Insight Vision features a 10.4-inch LCD screen. When sealed, the system is water, air and debris tight, making it ideal for use in harsh environments. The design of the case makes it mobile and lightweight to carry onto the work site. The self-leveling camera keeps images upright, and recording is easy using the external outputs and inputs. 800/488-8177; www.insightvisioncameras.com.
Pushrod inspection system
The P340+ Flexiprobe pushrod video inspection range from Pearpoint/SPX features onboard lithium-ion battery power for convenient power for up to a full day’s typical usage, enabling operators to work remotely. A push-button fuel gauge provides a quick indication of remaining power even when the controller is switched off. It features slots for USB flash drives and Compact Flash cards. And can also be connected directly to a PC to copy or move files without the need for a separate card reader. It offers a choice of two stainless steel high-resolution cameras. Users can zoom, pan and rotate images during recording and playback to focus in on problem areas. Still pictures can be taken at any time. 800/688-8094; www.radiodetection.com.
Portable inspection system
The GatorCam4 inspection system from Radiodetection Corporation offers the convenience of a portable system that can be used in most weather conditions. It boasts an onboard lithium-ion battery, and the push-button fuel gauge provides a quick indication of remaining power even when switched off. It can be configured to suit most inspection requirements. A range of pushrods is available, from an extra-flexible 100-foot plumbers reel, to navigate the bends and traps found in commercial and residential plumbing, up to the 500-foot extra-stiff rod designed to push for longer distances. 877/247-3797; www.radiodetection.com.
Pan, tilt and zoom push camera
The MiniLite System from RapidView IBAK North America is a pipe inspection system that allows users to inspect, record and measure the internal dimensions of smaller pipelines. Users can accurately capture diameter measurements with one touch using the ORION Zoom Camera during normal inspection operations. The system consists of a cable coiler cartridge, which makes replacement easy, a portable command console and one of several choices of cameras. It includes a high-visibility 10.4-inch monitor and a full QWERTY keyboard. Inspections can be recorded on a built-in MPEG digital video recorder on SD and SDHC memory cards. The system is currently available in 100- and 130-foot lengths. 800/656-4225; www.rapidview.com.
Web-enabled inspection camera
Pipeline inspection cameras from Ratech Electronics can record to Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads or iPods, allowing technicians to instantly upload pipe inspection video from the job site to YouTube. Using the integrated cellphone interface and camera, they can give customers immediate information about what is wrong with their sewer or pipes. Packages include quick and easy one-touch recording with no USB thumb drives, SD cards or DVDs. This interface is adaptable to any new or existing Ratech system. Also included is an on-screen display overlay system providing electronic distance counter, time and date. The camera has built-in 512 Hz sonde for locating purposes. The standard Gel-Rod cable length supplied is 200 feet, with longer lengths available. 800/461-9200; www.ratech-electronics.com.
Auto-upright push TV camera
The minCam push camera system from Rausch Electronics USA ships ready to use instantly, as there is no unpacking, no cables to be connected and no monitor to be mounted. The included color camera has auto-upright picture, integrated locator sonde and an application range of 3- to 16-inch-diameter pipe. Each system has 200 feet of standard fiberglass push cable, an integrated lithium-ion battery for up to two hours of operation, on-screen distance counter and an 8.4-inch sunlight-readable monitor. An SD card reader is built into the system to record up to 32 GB of video, images and audio. 717/709-1005; www.rauschusa.com.
Digital recording monitor
The handheld SeeSnake CS6 digital recording monitor from RIDGID is equipped with SeeSnake HQ software, capturing still images and video clips and allowing users to quickly and easily edit, archive and deliver reports directly to customers through USB thumb drives or via print, DVD and online. Features include a 5.7-inch daylight-readable LCD screen, a water-resistant keypad, an on-screen keyboard for basic titling and text entry, and an integrated microphone and speakers. It can dock onto the SeeSnake Max rM200 camera system for transportation and storage, and is also compatible with the full line of SeeSnake reels. 800/769-7743; www.ridgid.com.
Remote push camera
The RiFlexio S push camera from Ritec GmbH can be pushed over deposits or staggered pipe joints, extending pipe inspections further. The camera head is remotely lifted upward and pushed over obstacles, and can turn in pipes 2 inches in diameter, making it ideal for tight work areas. The head can turn 90 degrees inside the pipe without losing its rotational capabilities. www.ritec-tv.de.
Inspection camera
The Sparvision 200 pipe inspection camera from Spartan Tool is self-contained in a single unit for easy on-the-job maneuverability. Outfitted with iPad technology, it is intuitive to use yet packed with features such as simplified emailing of recordings to your customers, a full on-screen QWERTY keyboard, and telestration, allowing you to actively draw on the screen to indicate problems. Its color self-leveling camera head simplifies diagnosis, and it features 200 feet of ultra-slick pushrod and offers instant snapshots at any time. It comes with a standard 512 Hz locating beacon and pushrod distance counter. 800/435-3866; www.spartantool.com.
Inspection camera system
The TVS-15 inspection camera system from Trio-Vision USA is designed for use in 6- to 60-inch pipelines. Typical applications include the inspection and investigation of sewerage and rainwater pipe. It features a modular design, interchangeable cameras, water resistance to IP68, a short-wheelbase crawler powered by two DC motors, integral circuit protection, a high-resolution CCD camera with 0.01 lux light sensitivity, an autofocus pan/tilt/zoom camera, and rearview camera and lighting. 707/793-0673; www.trio-vision.com.
Mini-camera inspection system
The ProCam DVR Ultra from UEMSI is a compact and lightweight color mini-camera inspection system. It includes a 10.4-inch color LCD monitor and a built-in DVR that records video files and photos to an SD card. The push reel is made of powder-coated steel for durability and the nylon-jacketed push cable has a water-blocking gel inside to prevent water infiltration. The data display package includes on-screen digital footage and a full-size flexible keyboard. Options include an inline transmitter and rechargeable battery pack. 800/666-0766; www.uemsi.com.
Visual inspection camera
The VIS 350 visual inspection camera from Wohler USA features a pan-and-tilt camera head to inspect wastewater lines, house connections, flue gas systems and ventilation lines. Locate the position of the camera head on a vibrant display and maintain your sense of orientation with the home function. Pinpoint damage with the integrated locator transmitter. It also comes equipped with two rechargeable batteries, giving operators greater mobility on the job. 978/750-9876; www.wohlerusa.com.
Portable video inspection system
Portable video camera inspection systems from Zistos Corporation are battery operated and feature interchangeable camera options, including dual view thermal, black and white, a self-illuminated 10:1 color zoom and a variety of other self-illuminated options. Its tripod-mounted display isolates the operator, and telescoping fiberglass extension poles of various lengths are available. Its optional thermal imager sees temperature differences through smoke and in total darkness. It has optional image recording capability for documentation of findings, an ideal option to avoid confined-space entry. 631/434-1370; www.zistos.com.