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Technical Tips for Certified Locators – Edition 5

Understanding Traceable Rods for Efficient Location

By Steve Wood, Senior Trainer and Assessor, CERTLOC
  1. The quality and amount of the conductive material inside the traceable rod.
  2. The length of the rod inserted into the non-conductive pipe or duct.

Far-End Earthing: Ideally, if the rod can be extended to the next pit (although not always possible), connect it to the earth via an earth stake and jumper wire at that location. This far-end earthing will significantly enhance and stabilise the signal throughout the entire route of the target.


Key Conclusions

  • Ensure that your rod is not electrically connected to the target.
  • Invest in a high-quality traceable rod that is preferably not electrically connected to the carrier, indicating the manufacturer understands the rod’s functionality.
  • Extend the rod to the next pit and establish far-end earthing.
  • Carry a conduit or PVC pipe. When working at a Telstra manhole or similar setting, insert the pipe into the duct you want to locate. This method will make it easier to insert the rod into the duct you need to locate.
  • Test your rod by attaching the red clip of your direct connect leads to one end of the rod and the black clip to the other end of the rod. Plug into the transmitter and turn it on. If you get a good current reading, and probably little or no voltage the rod is in good working order. If you get a zero current reading the rod is defective.

By adhering to these guidelines, the efficiency and accuracy of locating non-conductive assets using traceable rods can be greatly improved.

For more insights and technical updates, be sure to look out for the next edition of Technical Tips for Certified Locators.

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