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Cable Avoidance Tools

Cable avoidance tools (CATs) are handheld devices used to detect underground pipes and cables before excavation. They play a critical role in safety, utility mapping, and excavation planning by scanning the ground with electromagnetic signals to locate underground infrastructure. This helps reduce the risk of injury, damage to utilities, and costly project delays.

Common systems include the CAT and Genny, which are used across various industries in the Philippines. Cable locators or ground-penetrating radars are often employed before any excavation to precisely pinpoint underground utilities. This allows quick and easy scanning for the swift installation of electrical power cables or utility pipes.

How Cable Avoidance Tools Work?

A conventional cable avoidance tool detects underground utilities using electromagnetic signals emitted or induced in buried metallic services. CATs typically operate in three main modes:

Power Mode: A cable avoidance tool is used to detect only live power cables, so the cable needs to have a flow of electricity at the time of scanning. For example, streetlights during the day are not on, so scanning the pavement next to them might not pick up any signals.
Radio Mode: The CAT also detects re-radiated radio signals from metallic services to help locate and avoid metal pipes and electrical cables associated with telephone lines, gas pipes, and water supplies.
Signal Generator Mode: Also known as a Genny, this mode is used with a transmitter to trace specific utilities such as water valves or plug sockets. Using a Genny enhances the accuracy of locating buried services by actively applying a signal to the utility line.

CATs and Genny scanners provide both visual and audible indicators to guide users, with detection depth depending on ground conditions and signal strength.

Where Cable Avoidance Tools Are Used Across Industries?

Cable avoidance tools are essential in many sectors across the Philippines:

National Rail and Infrastructure: Cat and genny scanners are used to identify and map buried utilities before construction or maintenance, ensuring engineer safety and infrastructure integrity.
Discrete Manufacturing: CATs help locate buried electrical cables near factory sites to avoid accidental damage during site works.
Process Manufacturing: Detect and avoid buried process lines, such as chemical or water supply lines, critical for safe plant operation.
Energy and Utilities: CAT scanners help locate underground services, including power lines, water pipes, and gas mains to prevent service interruptions and hazards during excavation.
Facilities and Intralogistics: In the Philippines, cable avoidance tools are used during site surveys before installing lighting, signage, or control wiring to avoid damaging existing buried infrastructure.

How to Choose the Right Cable Avoidance Tool?

Selecting the appropriate cable avoidance tool (CAT) is crucial for efficient and safe underground utility detection. Consider the following factors to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with your project requirements:

Detection Depth & Signal Clarity: Ensure the CAT offers sufficient depth capabilities and clear signal reception to accurately locate utilities at varying depths.
Compatibility with Signal Generators (Gennys): Opt for CATs compatible with Genny transmitters to enhance detection of non-energized or non-metallic utilities.
Display Type & Ease of Use: Choose a cable avoidance tool with a user-friendly interface, such as a high-contrast LCD display, to facilitate easy reading and operation in various conditions.
Battery Life: Consider cable avoidance tools with extended battery life to ensure prolonged usage without frequent recharging or battery replacement.
IP Rating & Environmental Durability: Select a CAT with an appropriate IP rating (e.g., IP65) to withstand harsh environmental conditions and ensure longevity.
Compliance with Safety Standards: Verify that the cable avoidance tool complies with relevant safety standards to guarantee reliable performance and user safety during underground detection tasks.

Benefits of Using Cable Avoidance Tools

Using cable avoidance tools (CATs) offers numerous advantages across various industries. Here's how they contribute to safer and more efficient excavation practices:

Reduce Excavation Risks: By accurately detecting underground utilities, CATs help prevent accidents such as electrocution, gas leaks, and flooding, ensuring the safety of workers and the public.
Faster Project Setup: With precise utility mapping, projects can commence more swiftly, minimizing delays and facilitating timely completion.
Prevent Downtime: Avoiding damage to essential services, such as electricity, water, and gas lines, prevents service disruptions and maintains continuous operations.
Compliance with Safety Regulations: Using CATs aligns with safety standards and regulations, reducing the risk of fines and ensuring legal compliance during excavation activities.

Why Buy Cable Avoidance Tools from RS Philippines?

RS offers a comprehensive range of cable avoidance tools, including Gennys, accessories and other handheld devices like digital thermometers to suit your needs. We stock trusted brands like Radiodetection and provide expert advice to help you select the right locator or detector for your needs. Buy cable avoidance tools from RS and enjoy fast local delivery across the Philippines, along with reliable service support. For more delivery-related information, refer to our delivery page.