Drain Cleaning: Putting Technology To Work
Part 1: Versatile Augers Clean Drains Effectively
Part 2: Inspection Systems Troubleshoot Drains, Produce Valuable Data
Part 3: Managers Can Specify a Range of Hand-Held Drain Cleaners
Part 4: Portable Cleaners and Water Jetters Maintain Drain Lines
Part 5: Inspection Cameras Play a Role in Preventive Maintenance Programs
Part 6: Drain-Inspection Recordings Provide Managers with Training Tools
Inspection Systems Troubleshoot Drains, Produce Valuable Data
By Thomas A. Westerkamp - December 2008 - Plumbing & Restrooms
Inspection systems enable technicians to see the condition of drain lines and locate the problem. With capabilities of the current line of inspection-camera systems, such as a 1½-inch head on 100 feet of cable, technicians can see a live picture of conditions inside the drain and record the information for later use.
For example, a system might include a high-resolution camera linked by cable to a flexible head, which allows the operator to inspect the entire inner pipe wall. Since the head is waterproof, the unit can inspect drains even with water backed up behind the blockage.
Using the attached monitor and a VHS or DVD recorder with playback capability, a technician can preserve the information for later review with management or others who plan and perform the actual cleaning or repair.
