What Does Tracer Wire System Mean?
A tracer wire system, also known as locating wire, is used to locate underground pipes such as sewer and water pipes. The tracer wire is placed along the length of the pipe during installation and can be traced using a locating device. Trenchless technology is used to install pipes under the earth by drilling below the surface.
If the pipe needs to be located at a later date for the purpose of maintenance or geotechnical site investigation, a tracer wire system can be very helpful and save time and cost.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Tracer Wire System
An electrical tracer wire is laid alongside the pipe during the process of pipe installation and is useful for locating the pipe safely and accurately at a later date. The wire is encased in high density polyethylene (HDPE) to prevent damage by abrasion, chemicals and crushing. It's also resistant to fluids, corrosion and harmful chemicals. The HDPE covering ensures that the tracer wire lasts in good condition for a long period of time.
A wire tracing device with the ability to locate non-energized wire is used, eliminating the need to pass electricity through the wire in order to trace it.
