Camera navigates failed cast iron where standard cameras can’t pass
Problem / Cast iron drainlines can be brutal on inspection equipment — heavy scale, sharp edges, offsets and collapsed sections often stop standard push cameras in their tracks. In an Orange County home, the cast iron drains were so deteriorated that the crew couldn’t advance far enough to confirm how close they were to the city sewer connection. With a backup risk and uncertainty about the remaining pipe condition, the job needed a clear, verifiable answer, not guesswork.
Solution / Orange County Sewer Inspection solved the access challenge first by cutting a new cleanout to reach the best remaining section of line. From there, they deployed the MiniFlex, a compact, highly flexible inspection camera from Fiberscope.net designed for tight-radius turns and restrictive pipe conditions. Using the camera’s small profile and integrated sonde, the technician advanced through the compromised cast iron and then located the head position from above ground. The sonde confirmation showed they reached within approximately 2 feet of the city sewer connection, providing confidence that the inspection covered the critical section and informing the next repair decision.
Result / The team avoided unnecessary excavation and eliminated uncertainty about line access and reach. The footage proved that even in harsh cast iron conditions, a small camera can deliver accurate, job-critical results — especially when combined with a sonde for confirmation. This case is a strong reminder: When the line won’t take a standard system, the right compact tool can still get the job done. 877-613-2210; www.fiberscope.net
Trailer jetter proves reliable for lateral and mainline work
Problem / When BLD Services, the world’s largest cured-in-place lateral lining company, expanded into mainline cleaning, they needed equipment that could do both jobs well. Their existing dual-reel jetter was hampered by complex controls, slow operator training and time-consuming maintenance. To scale their new service, BLD required a simple, reliable jetter for both lateral and mainline work without creating bottlenecks or increasing downtime.
Solution / Already familiar with GapVax, BLD’s Tennessee outfit talked to 502 Equipment who introduced them to the G7 unit. This unit provides dual-reel versatility and easy maneuverability into tight areas and easements. All critical functions are centralized in a single control box, improving safety and speeding up day-to-day operation. The operator-centric layout allows crews to switch between lateral and mainline cleaning hose sizes significantly faster than competing models. A remote control enables single-operator deployment in easements, reducing labor needs. The mechanic-friendly design with easy-access components and helpful diagrams minimizes troubleshooting and downtime.
Result / BLD Services has seen faster operator training, with new crews fully operational in one to two weeks. They also have improved job efficiency through quick hose changes and single-operator remote control capability, as well as reduced downtime due to a mechanic-friendly design, easier maintenance and responsive dealer support. Increased capacity has allowed BLD to take on and complete more mainline and lateral cleaning and rehab projects. “GapVax’s dual reel G7 is by far my favorite jetter that I’ve ever owned, used and ran,” says Jeff Carter, owner of BLD Services. 888-442-7829; www.gapvax.com
