Underground Utility Locator Buying Guide: Selecting the Right Equipment
Selecting the right underground utility locator can mean the difference between efficient, accurate detection and costly excavation accidents. With utility strikes causing billions in damages annually, choosing proper utility locating equipment isn’t just a business decision—it’s a safety imperative.
This guide walks you through essential factors to consider when purchasing an underground utility locator.
Disclaimer
This blog post is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice for your specific application. Equipment selection should be based on your individual requirements, budget, and operational needs.
Linc Energy Systems is an authorized distributor of Sewerin products in the United States. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, specifications and features are subject to change without notice. Please consult the current product documentation and contact our technical team for the most up-to-date information.
Before making any equipment purchase decisions, we recommend consulting with qualified professionals and conducting thorough evaluations based on your specific applications and requirements.
Understanding Your Utility Locating Needs
Project Types and Frequency
- Occasional Use: Contractors performing periodic excavation work
- Daily Operations: Utility companies and excavation specialists
- Specialized Applications: Municipal services, telecommunications, industrial facilities
Utility Types You’ll Locate
- Metallic Utilities: Gas lines, water mains, electrical cables
- Non-Metallic Utilities*: Plastic pipes, fiber optic cables, sewer lines
- Mixed Infrastructure: Urban environments with multiple utility types
*Note: Non-metallic utilities typically require a tracer wire, sonde, or detectable conduit to be locatable with EM-based utility locators.
Environmental Conditions
- Urban vs. Rural: High interference areas vs. open spaces
- Weather Exposure: All-weather operation requirements
- Terrain Challenges: Rough surfaces, landscaping, paved areas
Key Features to Consider
1. Frequency Options
Entry-Level (7-10 frequencies):
- Basic utility detection
- Cost-effective for occasional use
Professional-Grade (20-30 frequencies):
- Enhanced performance in various conditions
- Suitable for regular commercial use
Advanced Systems (50+ frequencies):
- Maximum versatility and precision
- Professional utility companies and contractors
Frequency range is one way to categorize systems, but detection capability also depends on antenna technology, signal processing, and the design of the user interface.
2. Detection Methods
Passive Location Method: Detects natural or existing electromagnetic signals on utilities (e.g., energized power lines).
Active Location Method: Uses a transmitter to apply a signal for accurate tracing of conductive lines.
Combined Systems: Allow switching or combining both modes for flexibility in complex environments.
3. Depth Measurement Accuracy
- Basic Systems: General depth indication
- Professional Systems: Precise depth measurement with verification
- Advanced Systems: Multiple measurement techniques
4. Battery Life
- Standard: 8-12 hours of operation
- Enhanced: 20-30 hours of continuous use
- Extended: 30+ hours receivers, 100+ hours transmitters
Battery life is approximate and varies based on usage (active vs. passive, screen brightness, transmitter load).
Equipment Categories
Entry-Level Systems
- Ideal for: Small contractors, maintenance crews, limited budgets
- Features: 7-10 frequencies, simple operation, reliable detection
- Example: Sewerin UT 930 with seven frequencies
Professional-Grade Systems
- Ideal for: Excavation contractors, utility contractors, engineering firms
- Features: 20-30 frequencies, direction recognition, ambient noise detection
- Example: Sewerin UT 9100 (configurable up to 30 frequencies, includes current direction detection)
Advanced Systems
- Ideal for: Utility companies, large contractors, survey professionals
- Features: 50+ frequencies, GNSS integration, data documentation
- Example: Sewerin UT 9200 with 100 frequencies and built-in GNSS
Decision Matrix
| Application | Frequency Range | Essential Features | Recommended Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic maintenance | 7-15 | Passive/Active, Simple operation | Entry-Level |
| Regular excavation | 15-35 | Direction recognition, Remote control | Professional |
| Complex urban work | 30+ | Noise detection, Verification methods | Professional/Advanced |
| Documentation required | 30+ | GNSS, Data export, Mapping | Advanced |
Budget Considerations
Initial Investment
- Entry-Level: lower cost
- Professional-Grade: moderate investment
- Advanced Systems: higher investment
Pricing will vary based on configuration. Contact Linc Energy for prices.
Ongoing Costs
- Battery replacement/charging
- Calibration and maintenance
- Training and certification
- Accessories (probes, sondes, cables)
Essential Accessories
Basic Accessories
- Carrying cases
- Cable clamps
- Ground stakes
Advanced Accessories
- Flexible cable clamps
- Sondes for pipe-end location
- Fiberglass rods for non-conductive utilities
- External GNSS antennas
Making Your Decision
Evaluation Process
- Assess requirements using a decision matrix
- Request demonstrations in your work environment
- Compare total costs, including accessories and support
- Check references from similar users
- Evaluate manufacturer support and local service
Key Questions for Suppliers
- What training is included?
- What warranty coverage is provided?
- Are firmware updates included?
- What accessories are essential for my applications?
- What is the expected service life?
Conclusion
The right underground utility locator is an investment in safety, efficiency, and operational success. Match your requirements to the appropriate equipment levels and ensure you receive proper training and support.
For expert guidance on selecting the right utility locating equipment, contact our team at Linc Energy Systems for demonstrations and customized recommendations.
Ready to find the right utility locating equipment? Contact our experts for personalized recommendations.
Download: Sewerin Locating Solutions
Always follow local regulations and call 811 (or the relevant service) before excavation, even when using a utility locator.
