Pipeline video inspection: How does it work?

Pipeline video inspection, a technique used for visually examining the insides of pipelines, offers a form of telepresence that ensures non-destructive testing. One common application of this method is to assess the condition of small-diameter sewer lines and household connection pipes.

With the aid of advanced video equipment, it becomes possible to inspect the interior of a pipe without causing any damage. Typically, a small diameter collector pipe consists of a cleanout access at one end and extends several hundred feet, leading to a manhole. At this manhole, additional collector pipes may discharge, while a larger diameter pipe carries the effluent to the next manhole, and subsequently to a pump station or treatment plant.

Inspection process

To conduct pipeline video inspection, a camera tractor equipped with a motor and cradle for the inspection head is employed. The inspection process involves two scenarios:

1. Inspection from an access pipe to a manhole: The service truck is positioned above the access point of the pipe. The camera tractor, attached to a flexible cable, is then carefully lowered into the pipeline. The tractor is advanced to the point where it is barely inside the pipe. To prevent any damage to the cable from rubbing against the top of the pipeline, a “down-hole roller” is set up between the camera tractor and the cable reel in the service truck. Subsequently, the operator moves to the inside of the truck and initiates the inspection process, remotely controlling the camera tractor. Once the inspection is completed or the camera cable is fully extended, the camera tractor is put in reverse gear while simultaneously winding up the cable. When the camera tractor reaches the vicinity of the original access point, the downhole roller is lifted, and the camera tractor is brought into the access point and then pulled up to the service truck. This method is preferred when a complete blockage or collapse impedes the use of a fish and rope technique.
2. Pulling the camera backward using a fish and rope: In cases where the pipe diameter is too small to accommodate the camera tractor mechanism, a semi-rigid “fish” is pushed through the pipe and connected to a rope near the access point close to the truck. The fish is then pulled, causing the rope to move along the pipe. The rope serves as a means to pull the inspection pig and cable through the pipe. After detaching the rope, the cable is used to draw the pig backward while the pipe’s interior is monitored on a screen. This method is depicted in the accompanying illustrations.

Analysis of Video Footage

During the pipeline video inspection, the camera operator conducts an initial analysis of the footage. However, the entire inspection is recorded and saved for future review. Commercial software and hardware designed for video pipe inspection are available from various vendors, including Cues, ITpipes, and WinCan.

Conduit Rehabilitation

Depending on the changes observed during the inspection compared to previous assessments, several improvements may be implemented to enhance the condition of the pipe. Some possible measures include:

1. Cleaning the pipe: A rotating root cutting blade at the end of a segmented rotating chain may be used to clean the pipe. Alternatively, a chemical foam can be applied to discourage root growth.
2. Repairing limited damage: If damage is found to be limited to a few specific locations, excavation and repair of those areas may be necessary.
3. Addressing moderate defects: Extensive moderate defects can be rectified by lining the pipe with a fabric liner. This liner is pulled through the pipe, inflated, and chemically treated to become rigid.
4. Conduit replacement for severe damage: In cases of severe damage, excavation and replacement of the conduit may be required.

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