The variety of contemporary methods for collection of information regarding the condition of underground infrastructure enables us to choose the most rational approach to each particular pipeline according to its specification: pipeline type (pressure/non-pressure), diameter, working pressures, conducted fluid, etc.
The most commonly used method for inspection of newly constructed or operational pipelines is based on a remotely controlled CCTV (closed circuit television inspection) camera. It delivers information regarding material, diameter, slope, obstacles and defects, such as cracks or relocations, etc. This method is applicable for pipeline diameters between 150mm and 1000mm. Operating pipelines have to be cleaned in advance, in order to create accessibility for the equipment.
For operating pipeline networks inspection (without interrupting their operation), we use another method, which utilizes special cableless equipment. This technology can be used within pressure and non-pressure pipelines, up to 50km long. In pressure pipelines the method provides information about the pressure along the complete pipeline length, turbidity, conductivity, presence of leaks with an accuracy of 10 l/h at 5 bar working pressure, etc, plus detailed real-time video recording. In non-pressured (partially filled pipelines) the technology provides information about water flow and temperature (which indirectly points to ground water ingress) and detailed real-time video recording of the pipeline’s condition above the water. The method is applicable to pipeline diameters from 100mm to 3000mm.
Profiling sonar is an additional technology at our disposal, which we use for the inspection of operating sewers. This is an acoustic method for the profiling of partially filled pipelines. The result of the inspection is a section cut of the pipeline, obstacles, water section and it provides information about the presence and amount of sediments, plus detailed real-time video recording. The method is suitable for diameters between 600mm and 3000mm.