Impact of Pipe Material on Drain Camera Inspection Accuracy
Impact of Pipe Material on Drain Camera Inspection Accuracy
Drain camera inspection forms a crucial part of the work done by professionals when diagnosing a drainage system. Although it provides a clear visual inspection of underground piping without the digging, the materials of the pipes underground are said to influence the results of the inspection because different pipe materials interact differently with the camera technology, directly affecting visibility, cleanness of image, and overall accuracy.
How Pipe Material Affects Drain Camera Inspection
PVC and plastic pipes
In modern-day drainage systems, the commonly employed pipes are PVC and plastics. This provides a surface that is smooth and non-corrosive, assuring that the drain camera inspection gives clear imaging when employed with plastic technologies. Due to the non-corrosive nature of the plastic as compared to metal pipes, it is less likely to develop mineral deposits, thereby ensuring in-camera inspection procedures more accurately and with fewer view-interfering obstacles.
Cast Iron Pipes
Heavy-duty cast iron pipes, usually found in older drainage systems, render drainage pipe camera inspection quite difficult. Due to oxidation corrosion, cast iron develops rough surfaces with dust and dirt particles rough enough not to facilitate camera inspection. The debris buildup inside the pipe further distorts the image and makes it even more difficult to analyze properly.
Clay Pipes
Clay sewer pipes, more common in older systems, tend to crack and suffer from penetration due to tree roots. These pipes obstruct the lens during drain inspection since they are extremely fragile. In addition, the joints connecting various sections of clay pipes also further complicate the successful camera inspection of these pipes.
Concrete Pipes
Concrete pipes are sturdy but develop cracks or misaligned joints over time. Such defects impact the accuracy of camera inspection since debris and silt buildup in the damaged areas obstruct the sight of the camera. Certified technicians perform a thorough review of the footage to differentiate between superficial defects and actual structural problems.
Metal Pipes (Copper and Galvanized Steel)
Uses in drainage systems of copper and galvanized steel are more general for water supply lines. This flashing will deform the camera inspection lighting and visibility. Further, corrosion or buildup of minerals obstructs visibility clear above these.
Why Pipe Material Matters in Inspection Interpretation
Understanding the material of a pipe is crucial for correctly interpreting drain camera footage. A technician analyzing PVC pipes may look for blockages and misalignments, while cast iron pipes require attention to corrosion and debris buildup. Without this knowledge, minor surface irregularities might be mistaken for major issues.
C-N-I Locates: An Expert Drain Camera Inspections
C-N-I Locates has high-profile drain camera inspection for the accurate assessment of drainage systems down below. The consideration of various pipe materials and the effect on inspection by specialists ensure accurate diagnostics for the homeowner, contractor, or organization.
Consider C-N-I Locates for all your drain locating, drain pipe camera inspection, or a combination of both services.
