Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

What does SewerVUE actually do?

We inspect large-diameter and otherwise hard-to-assess pipes. Our platforms collect HD CCTV, 3D LiDAR, profiling sonar, and pipe-penetrating radar (PPR) data on a single deployment, then deliver the reports municipalities and engineers use to plan rehabilitation.

How is PPR different from CCTV?

CCTV only sees the inside surface. PPR sees through the pipe wall: remaining wall thickness, reinforcement cover, delamination, and voids developing in the soil outside the pipe. If a CCTV run tells you a pipe looks fine but you need to prove that's true before lining it or leaving it alone for another decade, PPR is the measurement that settles it.

Do your reports meet PACP / NASSCO standards?

Yes. CCTV deliverables are produced to NASSCO PACP standards. Our team includes certified PACP operators and coders.

Can I rent before I buy?

Absolutely. We offer short-term rentals, long-term financing, and outright purchase on our platforms. Many customers start with a rented deployment on a real project and make the capital decision afterward. Contact us to discuss options.

How long does a typical inspection take?

Site-dependent, but as a planning anchor: one full kilometre per day (approximately 700–1000 m) is typical once the platform is in the pipe. Mobilization and access staging add to that.

What does a pipe inspection cost?

Cost depends on pipe length, diameter, access, sensor stack, and reporting depth. Email [email protected] with your pipe details and we'll come back with a scoped quote, usually within a day or two.

Pipe Penetrating Radar

Utilizing non-destructive Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) within pipelines, PPR delivers unparalleled insights into pipe wall conditions, enabling accurate mapping of material integrity, void detection, and precise measurement of remaining wall thickness.

What is Pipe Penetrating Radar?

PPR stands for Pipe Penetrating Radar. It is the in-pipe application of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), a non destructive technology to map pipe wall and bedding material conditions.

What is the difference between PPR and GPR?

GPR is mainly used from the surface to image the subsurface. In conductive soil conditions the GPR signals are unable to reach their targets. PPR on the other hand is deployed inside the pipe and will always work in non-ferrous pipes irrespective of the soil conditions around the pipe.

What is the difference between PPR and a visual inspection (CCTV)?

CCTV is only a visual assessment of the pipe. It can not determine the remaining wall thickness, potential voids developing outside the pipe, or rebar cover in RCP, for example. PPR has the ability to see beyond the inner surface.

Can detect voids outside pipe walls?

Yes, unless the electrical properties of the filling material are exactly the same as those of the surrounding soil which is very rare.

Can you measure pipe wall thickness?

Yes, the pipe wall thickness is measured with high a 95% - 100% accuracy.

What material can pipe penetrating radar inspect?

• Reinforced Concrete Pipes (RCP)
• Vitrified Clay Pipe (VCP)
• Brick Pipe
• Asbestos Cement Pipe
• Concrete Pipe
• High Density Poly Ethaline
• Polyvinyl Chloride Pipe
• Wood Stave Pie

We tried GPR from the surface and it did not work. Will PPR work?

In conductive soil conditions the GPR signals are unable to reach their targets. However, pipe penetrating radar allows for condition assessments of buried pipes. PPR is deployed inside the pipe and will always work in non-ferrous pipes irrespective of the soil conditions around the pipe.

Can pipe penetrating radar measure rebar cover?

Yes. PPR can measure rebar cover with high accuracy.

What is the accuracy of pipe penetrating radar inspection?

A quarter of the wavelength, on the order of a few millimeters or a quarter of an inch.

What is the maximum signal penetration during a sewer inspection?

The maximum signal penetration depends on the material the signal penetrates through. The maximum depth is usually around 12” (30cm) to 48” (120cm) from the internal surface of the pipe.

Who has used the PPR before and where?

We have served clients all around the globe with SewerVUE’s patented pipe penetrating radar inspection. Including, but not limited to, King County, WA; Atlanta, GA; Salt Lake City, UT; Stockton, CA; Palm Desert, CA; Paris, France; Portland, OR; Port Moody BC, Canada; Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada; Denver, CO; San Francisco, CA and Worthington, MN.

To read more about our successful PPR deployments, click here.

Can I use radar to explore and monitor oil and gas pipes?

We have high definition cameras and the most accurate Lidar sensors so we can measure cracks and other defects in any type of pipe. The robot is built in such a way that we can integrate other sensors on demand. With that being said, PPR will only work in non-ferrous pipes (concrete, reinforced concrete, vitrified clay, plastic, HDPE, etc.), so most oil and gas pipes are not suitable for PPR.

What clock positions can PPR antennae scan?

The PPR antennae can only collect data from the position of 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock. An additional antenna can be customized to collect data from the invert. However, Pipe corrosion due to hydrogen sulphide always attacks the crown of the pipe.

Multi-Sensor Inspections

What is a multi-sensor pipe inspection?

Multi-sensor inspection combines Pipe Penetrating Radar (PPR), 2D and 3D LiDAR, HD CCTV, and sonar on a single deployment. The output includes pipe geometry, internal condition data, and video footage in one synchronised dataset, at a level of detail appropriate to rehabilitation-design.

What information does 2D and 3D LiDAR capture during the inspection?

2D and 3D LiDAR capture detailed spatial data of the pipe's surroundings, identifying structural features, deformities, and potential issues with precision.

What role does HD CCTV play in a multi-sensor inspection?

HD CCTV provides high-resolution visual data, allowing for a detailed examination of the pipe's interior. It complements other sensors by offering a clear visual representation.

How does sonar contribute to the assessment process?

Sonar is utilized to measure the depth and detect anomalies underwater, providing valuable information in environments where traditional methods might fall short.

What types of pipes can be inspected using multi-sensor technology?

Multi-sensor inspections are versatile and can assess various large-diameter pipe materials, including but not limited to reinforced concrete, vitrified clay, brick, asbestos cement, and more.

Is the inspection process disruptive to pipeline operations?

No, multi-sensor inspections are non-intrusive and can be conducted without disrupting regular pipeline operations. The technology allows for efficient and comprehensive assessments.

How accurate are the results obtained from a multi-sensor inspection?

The combination of advanced technologies ensures highly accurate and reliable results, providing a comprehensive understanding of the pipeline's condition.

What are the benefits of choosing a multi-sensor approach over traditional inspections?

The multi-sensor approach offers a more thorough and detailed inspection, identifying potential issues early and providing actionable data for effective pipeline maintenance and management.

Can multi-sensor inspections be customized for specific pipeline requirements?

Yes, SewerVUE's multi-sensor inspections are customizable to meet specific needs, ensuring a tailored approach for different pipeline conditions and requirements. Contact us for a taliored solution

Reporting/Data Collecting

What is the maximum speed of the data collection?

PPR data collection is continuous together with CCTV and laser, the maximum speed is 30ft/min (10m/min).

How much can you inspect in a day?

Depending on site conditions and pipe layout, roughly one kilometre per day (700–1,000 m) once deployed.

How long does report delivery take after the inspection?

Standard reports are typically delivered within 2–4 weeks of field completion. Rush turnaround is available on request.

What do we get in the final deliverable?

Depending on the sensor package: NASSCO PACP-coded CCTV video, 3D point clouds, cross-sections, longitudinal PPR profiles with wall-thickness and void annotation, sediment volume reports, and a summary of findings with rehabilitation recommendations. Raw data is available on request.

General Inspection Questions

Can you go through a standard manhole?

Yes, the robot was designed to go through a standard 22.5 in manhole.

Equipment

Can you go through a standard manhole?

Yes, the robot was designed to go through a standard 22.5 in manhole.

What products does SewerVUE offer for pipeline assessment?

SewerVUE specializes in advanced condition assessment technologies, including the SewerVUE Surveyor Robot, SewerVUE MPIS Floats, Asbestos Cement Pipe Scanner, SewerVUE Submersible ROV, and the Sewervue Black Box.

Pricing & Rental

How much does a pipe inspection cost?

Inspection cost depends on pipe length, diameter, material, access conditions, sensor stack, and reporting depth. Email [email protected] or call (604) 421-0600 with your pipe details and we'll scope a quote.

Can I rent equipment instead of buying?

Yes. We offer short-term rentals, long-term financing, and outright purchase. Many customers start with a rental on a real project before making the capital decision. Contact us for rental terms.

Do you operate internationally?

Yes. SewerVUE has completed deployments across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. International projects may include additional mobilisation and customs considerations, which are itemised in the project quote.