Multi-Sensor Inspection

LiDAR Profiling uses light detection and ranging (LiDAR) to provide accurate inspection data for proactive repair and replacement of pipes in diameters of 6 to 60 inches. To those considering infrastructure rehabilitation, the system offers a number of benefits:

• Collects data necessary to comply with local, state and federal agencies, and establishes baselines for state and federal grant applications
• Employs detailed assessments to identify problems and provide predictive failure analysis
• Charts accurate records to help direct expenditures

The system can be deployed inside pipes using wheel or track-mounted tools in two primary modules:

• 2D LiDAR (Solid FX) provides cross-sections of pipe up to 5400 feet in length, enabling stakeholders to determine wall loss in addition to the pipeline’s ovality and capacity.
• 3D Spinning LiDAR (FX3D) performs 360-degree scans and 3-D models of pipe up to 2000 feet in length from a robotic tractor. In addition to bend-geometry modeling (AutoCAD®), the data can be used for virtual mandrels, alignment geo-positioning, diameter/ovality and wall loss due to corrosion.

Both modules are equipped with a high-definition, closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera that quickly produces detailed pipeline condition assessments and is capable of integrating sonar in a multi-sensor system configuration.

Sonar Profiling emits sound pulses and reflection measurements to provide inspection data on pipe deformation, silt and grease accumulation, and offsets and blockages in partially and fully submerged pipes. This makes it a valuable alternative to CCTV inspections, which are relegated to performing visual inspections of sewer systems above the waterline, and offers some unique advantages:

• Collects accurate and reliable inspection data from submerged and semi-submerged pipelines while they are in service, including high flow pipes and those that are surcharged, or outfalls and siphons
• Provides detailed two-dimensional profiles of the sewer pipe interior wall
• Produces composite images of pipe above and below the waterline in conjunction with CCTV
• Furnishes “real-time” cross-sectional views of pipe utilizing high-resolution/short-range sonar

The sonar profile unit can be skid, float or robotic tractor-mounted to provide mobility within pipe ranging from 18 inches to 18 feet in diameter. The unit records travel distance and internal sensors monitor its orientation, enabling users to accurately identify the location of pipe defects and deformities.

The data provided by National Underground Group’s multi-sensor inspection provides risk analysis parameters that include comparing a pipe’s condition and its likelihood of failure with the consequences of that pipe’s failure. This information can be used to establish the overall risk inspected pipe segments present.