Precision is required when professionals use technology in line locating. The technicians involved in the line locating must be able to interpret the results as well as use the line locating equipment. There are numerous benefits that are passed on to professionals in various industries who choose to utilize line locating services. For example, line locating technology can be used near known archeological or historical sites to ensure that sites are not disturbed, but line locating may also be used in the energy industry to ensure that underground tanks are not disturbed. The following represent three types of technology that are used in line locating.

Electromagnetic Profiling Locators

This type of technology uses electromagnetic waves to create images. It offers the ability to scope in and view small areas. This type of technology might be deployed to locate underground tanks or utility structures. When the structure or device being searched for is located, additional measures can be used to locate specific components. For example, upon locating the structure, technicians may need to delve further to locate utility lines. This may involve implementing additional technology.

Radio Frequency Locators

Pipes and cable are often located utilizing this technology, which involves the use of radio frequency waves. There are two types of radio frequency waves. These types of locators search for cables and pipes that are capable of carrying radio frequency waves. Technicians use receivers to track the radio frequencies. Special skill is needed to differentiate ghost sounds from those that are actually radio frequency sounds. Cables and pipes that emit radio waves are the types that this technology can locate. If any other types of pipe or cable are in the area, radio frequency locators may not detect them. This is why a combination of other technologies is commonly used with this type of locator. 

Ground Penetrating Radar 

Technicians use this type of locating technology to locate materials or objects that do not conduct. For example, it could be used in an area that is a known or suspected human burial site that does not have burial markings present. Law officials might request this technology if they think a murder victim or weapon is buried in a specific area. The images created are real-time images making this a very realistic viewing option for what lies beneath. 

A professional line locating company is the best resource to use if you have questions or are unsure about digging. They have the technology to help businesses, non-profit organizations and private citizens avoid the costly mistakes and ecological disasters that can occur as a result of novice digging.