Investigation of Passive Tagging Techniques to Communicate with Buried Pipe in Gas Distribution Systems. Phase 2. Final Report April 1984-March 1985

摘要

In Phase I of the contract the feasibility of passive tagging methods as an aid to locating buried plastic pipe and for determining the condition of buried pipes, metal or plastic, were investigated. Both magnetic and radiofrequency tagging methods were demonstrated in the laboratory. A ferromagnetic strip was found to provide an economical and suitable means for tagging buried plastic pipes to permit location by a man-portable detector at depths up to about three feet. Radiofrequency methods of tagging were found useful for pipe location to greater depths, for locating specific features such as junctions, and for obtaining data on the condition of the buried pipe. Experimental and commercially available systems were evaluated and passive means of obtaining pipe condition datafrom the surface were developed. During Phase II the use of ferromagnetic strips as a durable and economical method of tagging plastic pipes for location purposes was more thoroughly investigated. An experimental detection system suitable for field demonstration was developed and evaluated.