City uses mobile inspection software to stay organized

Problem / Tyler is the largest city in Northeast Texas and is quickly growing. However, as cities grow quickly, sometimes the old buried infrastructure can remain out of sight and out of mind. Unfortunately, that situation came to a head in Tyler as the U.S. EPA and the state imposed a consent decree on the city in 2017. With almost 700 miles of aging sewer mains, the city had quite a bit of infrastructure to inspect, review and act on. Additionally, the settlement required that lower-income and minority areas receive greater attention. A GIS-centric solution would be necessary. 

Solution / The city operates two of its own CCTV inspection units, in addition to two separate contractors who televise the sewers. With upwards of six crews working every day collecting data, organizing this could be a challenge. However, with all crews using ITpipes Mobile Inspection software, the city is able to automatically import the data collected daily directly into Cityworks, utilizing ITpipes’ Sync module. Additional scripting within ITpipes Web provides automated alerts through Cityworks when certain criteria are logged. This assures that large holes, collapses, blockages or other pipe defects that require immediate attention are addressed quickly.

Result / Tyler has been aggressive with rehabilitation of its sanitary sewer system. Pipes are selected for repair based on condition and geo-spatial location. The integration makes decision-making straightforward and provides actionable intelligence. Thanks to its implementations, Tyler has not only reduced overflows, but has received two Texas Municipal League awards in 2020 for its Public Works and Communications programs. 877-487-4737; www.itpipes.com

---

Inspection camera able to reach all needed areas

Problem / A midwestern drain cleaner that specializes in residential work was having an issue inspecting galvanized lines in a house. The company had a micro drain camera it was using, but it was only able to navigate about 50% of the inspection areas.

Solution / After reviewing some information and videos on the Miniflex plumbing camera from Medit, the contractor called to discuss this unit and arranged a demo. In a bathroom sink, the Miniflex was able to go right into the drain and snake the line. In the tub, which was a plastic-lined pipe that turned into galvanized, the plumbing camera went in both ways to 7 feet. In the kitchen, which was solely plastic piping, both units worked.

Result / The contractor appreciated the fact that the Miniflex is a compact all-in-one design, and has a sonde built into the small camera head so the technician can locate it behind walls or under the floor. It was also the only unit that worked for the inspection of the older galvanized lines and navigated through bends in them. The company purchased a Miniflex unit. 800-239-9934; www.fiberscope.net