Role of Technology in Modern Plumbing Inspection and Repair
We live in a digital age where technology has worked wonders in all facets of our lives. These innovations have brought about a paradigm shift in the way we live and work. When it comes to the plumbing industry, we have witnessed the introduction of many cutting-edge technology tools capable of diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing and sewer systems with a high degree of precision. Shortly, we can expect further advances in plumbing inspection and repair with exciting developments such as Internet of Things (IoT) integration, 3D printing for custom parts, Augmented Reality (AR) assisted repairs, and more.
Discussed below are some cutting-edge technological innovations that are used extensively by plumbers for more efficient inspection and repair.
CCTV Systems: In many instances, determining the severity and location of sewer pipe damage is extremely difficult. Closed Circuit Television Video (CTTV) sewer inspection solves this problem by providing a visual display of the pipe interior. This allows technicians to find out the root cause of the problem without conducting more invasive methods such as floor/wall removal, digging, etc. CCTV video cameras are extremely efficient in diagnosing a plethora of plumbing issues including corrosion, root intrusion, pipe cracking, earthquake damage, blockage, and others. These systems are used extensively nowadays because they are affordable, environment friendly, and can find out plumbing issues quickly.
Ultrasound Testing: This non-destructive testing methodology helps determine pipeline issues without damaging, changing, degrading, or impacting the pipeline that is being inspected. In this method, an ultra-high-frequency sound wave is introduced into the pipe’s exterior side which gets reflected back from the surface. The measure of wall thickness is determined based on the two-way travel duration of the sound wave. When performed efficiently in combination with statistical analysis, it can not only determine corrosion’s severity but can also provide an accurate forecast of remaining service life.
Trenchless Pipe Repair: This is another advanced plumbing technology that allows us to repair pipes without excavating the lawn or removing portions of walls, foundations, or flooring. It uses the damaged pipe as a host to restore it internally. After the inspection and mechanical cleaning of the pipe, an epoxy-saturated liner is installed inside the existing pipe. A new pipe is formed within the damaged one, as soon as the epoxy liner gets cured. Trenchless pipe repair can be used effectively for old pipes with many different issues such as holes, cracks, scaling, age deterioration, channelling, or root intrusion. The life expectancy of the new pipe can be as high as 50 years.
Laser Profiling: This cutting-edge technology uses projected laser light, allowing inspection crews to analyse a pipe’s diameter, alignment, ovality, and capacity. Laser profiling is minimally intrusive, extremely effective, and provides all necessary documentation for the repair and replacement of pipelines. This methodology is used extensively as a quality control criterion during the installation of new pipes.
As the Australian market leader in pipeline inspection and rehabilitation support, Austeck offers a comprehensive range of sophisticated technology tools for your plumbing system. Please contact our expert technicians today to discuss your needs.