Pipeline inspection expert iPEK has introduced a new vehicle, the SAT system, capable of lateral launch and available from Wiltshire based Mans location Services.
Able to operate in sewers of between 4in and 1m diameter, the vehicle uses solar power and the latest lithium-ion battery technology, and is described as a complete solution for investigating pollution issues and misconnections.
The SAT system can survey a main with the added advantage of being able to inspect incoming lines by moving inside them for distances of up to 30m.
One seemingly satisfied customer, James Stuart of Severn Trent, says: “With the capability of surveying up the lateral connections, the time spent identifying misconnected properties will reduce along with a reduction in the number of dig downs required. We currently identify a number of properties that may be misconnected for a survey and then rely on being able to gain access to properties to carry out ‘dye testing’. Improved camera capability will enable us to better pinpoint and gather evidence for misconnected properties without having to gain access”.
This, he says, will help them drive down the number of misconnections, which in turn will minimise the environmental impact of pollution incidents.
“Having more versatile equipment will enable us to get to the root cause of customer issues quicker with less disruption to customers. If a customer reports a problem (e.g. smell/blockage) on an asset that is on their premises, we would be able to identify the problem and a solution without the need for an excavation and disruption on their land.” This is a big benefit to both Severn Trent and most importantly its customers, he says.
