You dig it!
August 16, 2010
Advanced excavation technology being used by RSRL could revolutionise the safety of projects that require digging near underground services.
Known as EZiDig, the cable avoidance scanning system is currently being trialled at Harwell, the first nuclear Site Licence Company (SLC) in the UK to adopt the technology.
The new system is much more sophisticated than cable scanning avoidance devices available in the past and particularly helpful on sites like Harwell with an underground history.
Using electro-magnetic sensors to locate cables and other buried services, the EZiDig system beams continuous live information onto a display screen in the driver’s cab, giving warnings if hazards are detected. This makes it much safer for the excavator driver to work, as well as reducing the risk of damage to equipment, services and the works.
Manufactured by Cable Detection Ltd, EZiDig can be used in association with a scanning enhancement system, called EZiTrace. Trials of both systems conducted at Harwell by RSRL, working with contractors Priory Construction, have been very successful. RSRL’s Paul Atyeo commented, “Both are useful for deep excavations where surface detection is unclear. They don’t replace traditional cable avoidance tools but are valuable enhancements, which have already proven very helpful in the field. We are proud to be the first SLC to put it to practical use.”
Picture: National Operating Experience and Learning Group (OELG) see the system in action.
For more information please contact Angela Vincent, RSRL Communications Manager, Harwell
