➡️Product description

Combiphon Water Pipe Locator

Plastic Pipe Locator : Plastic pipes, being electrically non-conductive, cannot be located using traditional electromagnetic methods. An alternative principle used for pipe location involves acoustic methods: pipes transmit mechanical vibrations more effectively than the surrounding soil. These vibrations are transmitted through the soil and along the pipe to the surface, where they can be detected by a microphone (AQUAPHON®). In the acoustic location of water leaks, for example, the highest intensity indicates the position of the pipe. Essentially, this method can also be used to locate fiber cement or metallic pipes.

The COMBIPHON® system consists of the central control unit and various impulse generators, including the Generator G5. This makes it versatile for use in various scenarios.

Service Pipes (Water or Gas)

The Knocker generates vibrations by hitting the pipe externally like an electric hammer. For pipes filled with gas or air, the absence of a conductive water column can sometimes lead to issues.

Chain mounting for diameters up to 100 mm, weight: 1.8 kg.

Main Pipes – Water

Requires more energy to adjust for vibration. The water column is activated by removing water from the tap. The water column shut-off device is restricted at intervals by a stopper. The generated pressure waves can be transmitted and located even over long distances.

Radio Control of Generator G5

For example, when locating a service pipe, it is not necessary for the user to return to the coupling point to adjust the intensity. This is necessary due to the need for higher power over longer distances, although high intensity is not possible near house walls (noise pollution). Transmission is possible up to 300 m outdoors and about 30 m from the basement.

Technical Data of Generator G5

Power source: embedded lead-acid battery, optional 12 V adapter, or 12 V battery

Operating time: 5 – 80 hours with the Knocker (depending on intensity)

Operating temperature: from -10°C to +50°C

Protection class: splash-proof according to IP 54 (without adapter)

Dimensions (W x H x D): 60 x 19 x 21 cm

(compartment for Knocker and adapter, battery L)

Weight: approximately 6.3 kg with adapter.

Acoustic Plastic Pipe Detection – Water Pipe Locator

Principle

Plastic pipes cannot be located with traditional electromagnetic methods as they are not electrically conductive. The pipe location acoustic method operates on a different principle: pipes transmit mechanical vibrations better than the surrounding soil. These vibrations can be detected by a ground microphone when the pipe causes appropriate vibrations. These vibrations spread through the soil and along the pipe to the surface. Just as high-intensity water leaks are detected acoustically, the location of the pipeline is identified. This method can also be used to locate fiber cement and metal pipes.

The COMBIPHON® system consists of the Generator G5 central control unit and various impulse generators. Thus, it can be used everywhere.

G5 Generator Remote Control
When locating home connections, adjusting the intensity is unavoidable – for instance, high intensity may be required over long distances if there is noise pollution near the generator. A remote control means the user does not need to return to the generator to adjust the intensity.

Water or Gas Home Service Connections
A Knocker generates vibrations by hitting the pipe externally like an electric hammer. Pipes filled with gas or air may sometimes be problematic due to the lack of a conductive water column.

Water Mains
The water column is activated using a valve to control the noise level and subsequently spread the pressure waves. Pressure waves are controlled with a manometer to prevent sudden pressure changes within the pipe. The sound can be detected from long distances.

Acoustic Pipe Location
Pipe Positioning with Ground Microphone
After the pipeline is vibrated with a Knocker or Stopper, its location can be determined using a ground microphone. This involves systematic testing of the ground surface at short intervals. The AQUAPHON® A 100 receiver provides a visual and acoustic comparison of noise intensities. Is the noise loud or soft?
As you get closer to the vibrating pipeline, the volume increases. The signal is most intense directly on the pipe and then decreases again. The visual display is particularly useful for beginners or those who do not frequently use the system.

Hearing Protection Function
The AQUAPHON® A 100 meets all current occupational health and safety requirements. Adequate hearing protection is especially important. Previously, issues such as unpleasant or even dangerous acoustic pressure occurred if the headphones were activated too early or too late, or if an object fell directly next to the ground microphone. Thanks to new technology, this is no longer a problem. Incoming sound signals are continuously monitored. If the noise level becomes too high, the sound transmitted through the headphones is muffled. If the signals remain loud, the headphones will shut off. It is recommended to start automatic operations when the noise source becomes silent. The hearing protection function can be customized for various operational environments and users.

Filter Optimization Function
The AQUAPHON® A 100 features an innovative filter optimization function that makes it easier to accurately detect water leaks. This is especially useful in cases where the ground microphone detects leakage noise, but determining the exact location of the leak is difficult due to noisy environments. The receiver records and analyzes sound samples using the ground microphone. It then automatically switches to a frequency range that clearly separates the leak-related noise.

Microphones
Ground Microphone BO-4 1: Ideal for fixed surfaces. With a separate acoustic center and adjustable base, it provides the best movement freedom on uneven surfaces.
Ground Microphone 3P-4 2: Used for non-fixed surfaces. A spike can be screwed into soft ground. The three legs always ensure stable contact.

In addition to acoustic pipe location, the A 100 can also be used for professional electro-acoustic water leak detection. The A 100 receiver can also be used to locate metal and fiberglass probes.