A sewer camera is a device used to inspect the inside of pipes to identify potential problems or create a visual record of an existing installation for later reference. They are used in a wide range of industries such as water and wastewater utilities, municipal utilities, industrial plants, commercial and residential construction, and mining. To assist you in determining if a sewer camera is necessary for your project and what type is best suited for your needs, here is a brief overview of the various types of sewer inspection cameras available:
Single Channel and Multi-Channel Cameras
There are two primary types of sewer video cameras: single channel and multi-channel. Both are available in wired and wireless (Wi-Fi) versions. Both types of sewer video cameras are the same except for the number of individual cameras they connect together. In general, multi-channel cameras are more expensive than single channel cameras but provide more information and are more durable than single channel systems. Both types of sewer inspection cameras are designed to last for years inside a sewer.Single Channel Cameras: These are designed to be installed as part of a larger network of sewer pipes or as a standalone installation. The main advantage of a single channel camera is that it requires only one cable to connect it to the utility’s control and monitoring system. This can be beneficial if you’re working on a large project with many different utilities. Multi-Channel Cameras: These are designed to be installed as a standalone system that can be expanded as needed. They typically require two or more cables to connect it to the utility’s central control and monitoring unit. Multi-channel cameras are best used in smaller projects that require frequent access to the sewer pipe. They are also helpful if you’re working on a large project with many different utilities.
Wide-Angle and Narrow-Angle Cameras
Wide-angle and narrow-angle cameras are designed to capture images of the entire length of the sewer pipe. Wide-angle cameras offer a wide view of the pipe with a fisheye lens, while narrow-angle cameras capture a very detailed view of a specific section of the pipe. Wide-angle cameras are commonly used in large commercial projects such as road and highway construction. Narrow-angle cameras are often used in smaller projects that require detailed close-up views of the pipe’s interior.
Wide-Angle and Narrow-Angle Video Cameras
Wide-angle and narrow-angle video cameras are similar to the above-described sewer inspection cameras. Both are designed to capture images of the entire length of the sewer pipe. The main difference is that video cameras record and play back high-definition video that can be accessed on a computer or smart device. Video cameras often have the same features as their non-video counterparts including motion detection, audio recording, and Wi-Fi control systems.
Endoscope and In-Line Video Cameras
These are a type of camera used to view the inside of pipes without entering the pipe. These types of cameras are commonly used in sewage plants, water treatment plants, and commercial kitchens. Endoscope video cameras are typically mounted in the sewer pipe on the outside of the pipe. In-line video cameras are mounted inside the pipe. Both types of video cameras are usually connected to a control and monitoring system via cables. Endoscope and in-line video cameras are often used in tandem with a wide-angle or narrow-angle video camera to get a complete view of the pipe’s interior.
Conclusion
A sewer camera is a device used to inspect the inside of pipes to identify potential problems or create a visual record of an existing installation for later reference. They are used in a wide range of industries such as water and wastewater utilities, municipal utilities, industrial plants, commercial and residential construction, and mining. To assist you in determining if a sewer camera is necessary for your project and what type is best suited for your needs, here is a brief overview of the various types of sewer inspection cameras available.