EMI – Induction For Private Utility Locating In Florida

Electromagnetic Induction – Overview

Need EM Induction for Private Utility Locating in Florida? Let Geotek Services deliver a robust EM solution. EMI remains the most widely used technology for locating buried utilities, and it performs very effectively in Florida soils. With EMI, you can locate and trace a variety of buried utilities and estimate their depth.

Many projects require private utility locating services because 811 services typically don’t mark private utilities. Private utility locating goes beyond public locates and supports a wide range of efforts, including civil and environmental projects. Technicians also pair electromagnetic induction with Ground Penetrating Radar for superior results.

Our experts perform the induction method using a transmitter and receiver. First, we use a transmitter to send an alternating current onto the pipe or conduit we want to locate. Next, we use a receiver to analyze the induced signal and pinpoint the position and depth of the underground utility. The transmitter applies the signal to the buried line either through a direct connection or by induction.

The Direct Connect Method

EMI Receiver

The direct connect method applies an RF signal on a pipe or cable through direct contact. The pipe or cable then re-radiates the signal, which allows us to detect and locate the buried utility. For example, technicians can direct connect to a metal pipe to create the ground circuit. This process generates an electromagnetic field that provides the location the pipe.

This method requires technicians to access the utility’s location at one point. In some cases, they may need to access the utility at multiple locations to re-introduce the signal onto the line. Geotek Services uses the SeekTech SR-20 EMI Locator, which features omnidirectional antennas and guidance arrows with an easy-to-read mapping display. This instrument quickly and accurately guides the operator to the underground utility.

The Induction Method

The surface-induced method generates a signal at the ground surface which induces a response in underground cables, pipes, or tracer wires. For example, technicians can create an alternating electromagnetic field in the ground to induce a current onto a buried metal pipe. This technique also has the advantage of locating unknown metal pipes or conduits without making a direct connection.

Electromagnetic induction and Ground Penetrating Radar complement each other well, and professionals strongly recommend using both for utility locating.

Limitations of EMI Technology

EMI works well for private utility locating in Florida, but it has limitations. It cannot induce a signal on non-metallic pipes. Signals also cannot travel effectively through broken tracer wires or pipes that lack solid metal-to-metal contact. Although higher frequencies may jump across a broken tracer wire, they can also cause the signal to bleed onto nearby utilities.

Contact Us Today for Utility Locating Services!

Need EMI for private utility locating? Don’t leave your project to chance. Discover what lies beneath the surface before you cut, core, or excavate! Our underground utility locating solutions help you save time, reduce costs, and avoid unnecessary stress.

With over 18 years of experience in private utility locating in Florida, we provide the knowledge and expertise your project requires. Our highly trained technicians use advanced technologies like georadar and electromagnetic induction to deliver expert GPR services, keep your job safe, and help you avoid costly surprises.

Call us today to schedule your service. Accurate and reliable subsurface locating is just a click away!