Investigative Assessment

Investigative Assessment

Miksis Services, Inc. specializes in a variety of investigative assessment techniques. Investigative assessment is non-intrusive
methods of inspecting and locating pipes.
These techniques involve CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) and Radio-Frequency locating. RF Locating allows us to find the
location, depth, length, and direction of pipes. CCTV shows us a high-resolution video of the interior of the pipes, manholes, storm
drains, and other pipelines. We utilize video capture and data collection software by Cobra Technologies. The software can
provide the customer with detailed reports, videos, pictures, and repair recommendations on a DVD.
Smoke testing is an efficient and cost effective method for finding cross connections between storm sewer and sanitary sewer.
Leaks are easily found through cracks in the lines or defficient manholes. A large volume of smoke is pumped into the manhole after
upstream and downstream lines are sealed.
Manhole assessment provides the customer with a in-depth report for manhole condition using MACP (Manhole Assessment
Certification Program). Information is gathered in detailed reports about infiltration or root intrusion. Pictures are provided with the
reports or video depending on what the client requires.

Please use the above menu for specific Investigative Assessment services or other services.

Main Line CCTV

State-of-the-art, three lux sensitivity cameras with pan and tilt capability, the Omni Eye easily negotiates six inch pipe. The transporter carries the camera between manholes in distances of up to 1,000 feet. Up to 18 inches can be surveyed without the addition of auxiliary external lighting. In difficult situations, the camera can be moved from its transport cradle and be skidded through a pipe by means of a tow rope, winch or Jetter hose. Footage amounts vary with manhole distance, depth and number.

Storm Drains CCTV

The storm drain transporter requires a minimum 20" diameter entry point.

Once through the manhole ring, the transporter can elevate the camera to view up to a 12’ diameter pipe.

External auxiliary lighting allows the camera to view in remote locations.

The water-tight vehicle can drive through live sewers and elevate the camera above the flow line so that costly pump arounds can be avoided.

This steerable carrier can climb rocks and negotiate turns in large diameter conduits.

Mini Cams

Mini cameras are useful alternatives to mainline cameras when access points to the pipe to be video inspected are limited in size. They are capable of entering pipe through smaller openings and can negotiate bends that mainline cameras cannot. From a 1 ½” to 8” diameter pipe, the mini cameras can traverse up to 400’ of pipe. These small cameras are particularly useful when used in conjunction with location equipment to pinpoint areas in need of repair.

CCTV

One of the most important pieces of equipment in the MSI arsenal is the video camera. With the camera we can visually inspect the condition of the pipe and note any problem areas. The information gathered from the inspection assists in developing maintenance schedules and determining appropriate repair methods. Written reports for each pipe segment along with videos and photos are submitted upon conclusion of the inspection process.

Pipe Locating

A variety of equipment is needed for pipe locating, the basis of which is a radio transmitter and receiver. Miksis Services, Inc. constantly upgrades their equipment to keep pace with the rapidly changing technology. The location and depth of buried pipes, tanks, vaults and manholes can be established using these instruments. Transmitters are launched via video push cable, jet hose or coiled sewer cables. Above the ground, location marks are determined by the receiver wand. Using this method, costly exploratory excavation can be avoided.

Locating is Possible Through:

  • Steel

  • Cast Iron Pipe

  • Clay

  • Concrete

  • Fiberglass

  • Plastic

Smoke Testing

Smoke testing is a useful tool in the detection of sources of infiltration where ground water and storm runoff can enter the sanitary sewer system. After a section of the sewer system has been isolated, non-toxic smoke is forced into the pipe at the manhole using blowers. The forced smoke will escape through any openings in the pipe and appear on the surface. These locations are documented and photographed for evaluation. This procedure is most effective when performed during dry weather conditions.

Gravity Leak Locating & Fell 21

The Fell 21 is used to locate cracks and other faults in non-metallic pipe. A segment of pipe is isolated using plugs and the pipe segment is surcharged. A sonde is pushed through the length of the pipe, stopping at the farthest plug. As the sonde is retrieved, the electrical charge emitted by the sonde detects pipe defects and relays data to the computer.