Page 21 of 26
100ft
Trace Path
WATER MAIN
5ft
6 Tracing Factors and Helpful Information
6.5
Deep Conductor
Signals picked up by the receiver from deep buried pipes are weaker and not as directionally
distinct as those from pipes closer to the surface. In addition, the meter reading will only change
by small increments in relation to moving the receiver antenna.
Using the Inductive (Indirect) Method of coupling signal to the conductor may be difficult if
the target conductor is buried four feet or more. For best results, use the Direct (Conductive)
Connection method of coupling signal to the targeted conductor.
6.6
Tracing Long Runs
Signals picked up by the receiver get weaker as you move further and further away from the
transmitter coupling point, especially on long pipe runs. To get a stronger signal, move the
transmitter coupling point closer to the receiver. If forced to use the Inductive Indirect mode, your
tracing job will be easier if an assistant follows behind with the transmitter as you trace with the
receiver.
6.7
Locating a Service Lateral - Active Range/Inductive Mode
After you have traced the main, you may want to go back and locate the service laterals off the
main. Service lateral traces are easiest to conduct in the Inductive Mode. Two operators are
required for this procedure - Operator 1 remains stationary holding the receiver as if to trace
over and parallel to the main. Operator 2, carrying the transmitter, holding it perpendicular to the
main line, and maintaining a minimum of 100 ft. between himself and the receiver, walks parallel
but 5 feet from the main on the side he expects to find the service laterals as shown below. The
meter reading on the receiver will increase as Operator 2 crosses over the service lateral with
the transmitter. Each time the meter reading increases Operator 1 signals Operator 2 and he/she
marks the lateral locations on the ground.
Locating Service Laterals
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