Maximize Distance & Efficiency: Traction Tips for Sewer Inspections
Traction plays a key role in every successful sewer inspection. If your system’s wheels are slipping along the pipe, you are losing traction and not getting the maximum potential out of your inspection and rehabilitation equipment. There could be a few reasons why you are losing traction in the pipe:
1. Wheels Are Old and Need Replacing
Sewer inspection systems operate in some of the harshest conditions imaginable, leading to typical wear and tear. Over time, wheels need to be replaced.
- IBAK’s standard wheels are designed to be easily interchangeable and are inexpensive for this reason!
2. Not Using the Correct Wheels for the Pipe Conditions
Most manufacturers offer multiple types of wheels designed for specific situations. Using the right wheels for the right pipe conditions is essential for maintaining traction.
IBAK produces four different types of wheels in addition to their standard rubber wheels:
Click on a wheelset to learn more about their specific use cases.
3. Inspection System Is Too Light and Needs Additional Weight
One of the easiest ways to increase traction in the pipe is by adding weight.
- IBAK offers additional weight kits and accessories to help improve traction.
- In the video below, Matt Sutton (with over 20 years of experience in the pipe inspection/rehabilitation industry) explains this concept in detail.
The Physics: Weight = Traction = Distance
Why should a sewer inspection system be heavy? It comes down to simple physics. Traction is only achieved by friction between the contact surface (wheel) and the pipe wall.
- Manufacturers like IBAK build their camera tractor robots out of dense materials like brass.
- Additional weight increases downward force on the wheels, enhancing friction between the wheel and pipe.
- The added traction allows for longer inspection distances through slippery lines, maximizing efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring proper traction is key to maximizing the performance of your sewer inspection system. By replacing worn wheels, selecting the right wheels for the conditions, and adding weight when necessary, you can improve efficiency and extend the range of your inspections.
