Cable faults can cause electrical systems to stop working, but locating the exact problem underground can be a challenge. A cable fault may be caused by a break, short circuit, damaged insulation, or other issue that interrupts the cable’s ability to carry electricity properly.
Cable locators and fault locators are specialized tools used to troubleshoot these problems. A cable locator helps determine where an underground cable or conduit runs, while a cable fault locator helps identify where the damage or break is located along that cable.
Lakeland Engineering offers rental equipment to help with both steps. The Greenlee 501 can be used to trace and locate underground conduit and cable, while the Greenlee PE2003G is designed to help pinpoint cable faults so you can identify the area that needs to be repaired or replaced.
Step 1: Trace the Cable or Conduit
Before you can locate a fault, you need to know where the cable is running.
The Greenlee 501 cable locator and tracer helps users trace underground conductive lines and identify the path of a buried cable or conduit. This can be especially useful when working from incomplete drawings, locating an unknown cable route, or troubleshooting an underground electrical system.
By establishing the cable’s path first, you can narrow down the area where a fault may be located and avoid unnecessary excavation.
Step 2: Locate the Cable Fault
Once you know the cable’s route, the next step is finding the problem.
The Greenlee PE2003G cable fault locator can help identify the location of faults in underground cables. Instead of digging up an entire cable run to find a break, fault locating equipment can help narrow down the location so the repair can be focused on the problem area.
This two-step approach: trace the line, then locate the fault, can make underground cable troubleshooting much more efficient.
Cable Tracing and Fault Locating for Your Next Job
Whether you’re troubleshooting an underground electrical system, locating a buried cable before excavation, or trying to identify the location of a cable break, having the right equipment can save time and unnecessary digging.
Lakeland Engineering rents Greenlee 501 cable locators and Greenlee PE2003G cable fault locators for troubleshooting applications. Our team can help you determine which equipment is appropriate for your job.
Need to find the line? Then find the fault? Contact Lakeland Engineering to learn more about our cable locator and cable fault locator rentals.