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Cable Avoidance Tools
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morraphael  
#1 Posted : 17 January 2017 16:59:32(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
morraphael

Does anyone have experience in the use of cable avoidance tools. I am particularly interested in their reliability for the detection of primarily underground internal electic cables. Thanks

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gerrysharpe  
#2 Posted : 17 January 2017 17:11:54(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
gerrysharpe

CAT detectors are used by all the ulitities for tracing cables etc. They are very reliable, and the users ideally should be trained. 
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boblewis  
#3 Posted : 17 January 2017 20:12:18(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
boblewis
Originally Posted by: gerrysharpe Go to Quoted Post

CAT detectors are used by all the ulitities for tracing cables etc. They are very reliable, and the users ideally should be trained. 

Training is actually essential to get reliable results.

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RayRapp  
#4 Posted : 17 January 2017 21:01:44(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
RayRapp

CAT scanners are a reliable method of tracing buried underground services but they are not foolprooth. If no electric current is running through the service the CAT scanner may not be able to trace the electric (signal)cable, for example, a lampost in daylight hours. However the use of a genny to trace the signal is another alternative method. 

I suggest you review HSE guidance for a comprehensive understaning - http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg47.htm

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Zyggy  
#5 Posted : 19 January 2017 14:06:48(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Zyggy

I concur with Ray &Bob's advice re using a CAT & genny & also emphasising that training is a must have!

In a previous life we had a number of cable strikes & the common denominator was one particular operative. When asked to prove his profficiency it was soon obvious that he didn't have a clue!

You also need to ensure that you have up to date utility drawings & before anybody responds, yes I know that especially with electricity, most plans are worse than useless in showing exact locations or depth. All they do is indicate that there may be something in the vicinity.
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Bob Hansler  
#6 Posted : 19 January 2017 15:51:46(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Bob Hansler

230/400V is bad enough but hit a 11,000V cable and the fun really starts.  Training?   It's a ten-from-len'.  (Or a nod from Bob) 
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