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8.4.2 Available transmitter clamps
Although transmitter and locator clamps look the same,
they have different internal windings. To prevent the
wrong clamp being connected, transmitters and locator
clamps have plugs of a different orientation.
Standard signal clamp
The standard clamp applies the transmitter signal very
selectively and effectively to a target cable up to 100mm
(4”) in diameter using frequencies from 8kHz to 200kHz
The standard and small clamps have a double spring
action for positive toroidal contact.
Small signal clamp
The small signal clamp is useful for applying signals
from 8kHz to 200kHz to a target cable in a pedestal or
other place with limited space. The clamp is suitable for
cables up to 50mm diameter.
WARNING!. The transmitter must only be connected to live
services using the appropriate accessory such as a plug
connector or live cable connector.
8.5 Sondes
8.5.1 What is a Sonde
A sonde is a self-contained battery operated transmitter
used for tracing the paths of pipes, ducts, sewers and
drains and in the precise location of blockages or
collapses. The sonde can be fitted to a flexible rod for
insertion or pushing through pipes etc. and the smaller
diameter sondes can be used in conjunction with jetting
machines and blown through the duct. A suitable
Radiodetection locator can then be used to locate the
sonde
8.5.2 Choosing a suitable sonde
Radiodetection offers a wide range of sondes to suit
most applications: From the
¼” / 6.4mm diameter S6
33kHz microsonde which, with a range of
6.6”/ 2m,
targets fiber-optic micro ducting or other small non-
conductive pipes, to the 33kHz Super Sonde, which with
a depth range of 49.2 feet / 15m targets deep sewer
pipes.
Consult the precision locate accessory range brochure
or web page on
www.radiodetection.com
for a full list of
all available sondes and their technical specifications.
Check that the sonde has sufficient range for the
application and is dimensionally small enough and
sufficiently robust for the application. Ensure that the
frequency of the sonde corresponds with the locator
frequency; the locator will not locate the sonde unless
the frequencies are the same. Sondes are marked with
their transmitting frequency. Ensure that the means of
propelling the sonde is available together with the
correct fittings and couplings.
8.5.3 Preparation
Insert a new battery into the sonde. A new battery or a
freshly recharged battery should be used at the
beginning of each day and preferably at the start of
each new job.
Before inserting the sonde, check that the sonde and
locator are at the same frequency and working correctly.
To do this, place the sonde on the ground at a distance
from the locator that is equal to the rated depth of the
sonde. Point the locator at the sonde with the antenna
in line with the sonde (the opposite of using the locator
to locate a line) and check that the bargraph reading
exceeds 50% at maximum sensitivity.
8.5.4 Propelling a sonde
Sondes have a male thread at one end for connecting to
drain rods, or to other devices for inserting and
propelling the sonde along a drain or duct. Sondes may
be floated along drains at the end of a tether and floats
are available for fitting to the sewer sonde and super
sonde. Sondes can be strapped to high-pressure water
jets or similar devices used for cleaning, maintaining
and inspecting drains. Sondes used in underground
drilling and boring operations are normally housed in the
boring or drill head behind the boring or drill bit.
8.5.5 Locating and tracing a sonde
Insert the sonde in the drain or duct access and locate it
while it is still just in view at the drain or duct entrance.
Hold the locator vertical directly over the sonde with the
antenna in line with the sonde. Adjust the locator
sensitivity so the bar graph reads between 60% and
80%.
The sonde radiates a peak field from the center of its
axis with a ghost signal at each end of the peak. Move
the locator a little way behind and then in front of the
axis of the sonde to detect the ghost signals. Finding
the two ghost signals positively confirms the locate.
Reduce the locator sensitivity to lose the ghost signals
but still indicate a clear peak response directly over the
sonde. Locator sensitivity is now set for tracing the duct
or drain unless the distance between sonde and locator
changes.
Propel the sonde three paces along the drain or duct
and stop. Place the locator over the supposed position
of the sonde. Do not adjust the sensitivity level.
Summary of Contents for rd7000+
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