Geospatial Holdings, Inc. used its Smart Probe technology 3D mapping system during a 1,200 foot long horizontal directional drilling (HDD) bore being performed by Sunoco Logistics Partners for a 12.75 inch diameter crude oil pipeline.

The works involved attaching the probe to a nylon-braided tape and pulling it through the pipe. The probe was pulled through once from each direction to ensure the most accurate readings.

As the probe moved through the pipeline, all changes in inclination, heading and velocity were recorded internally on the probe. The information was then extracted and transferred to a GIS database.

The project was part of a required utility relocation and was completed in October 2009. The mapping process created an accurate direct measurement of the pipeline’s centreline.

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Project Manager for Sunoco Logistics’ western area pipeline relocations William Chaparro said “Sunoco validated its use of the 3D mapping process for trenchless installation and rehabilitation of its crude oil and refined products pipelines, and Geospatial’s Smart Probe produced as-built plans and profiles for the project.”

For a more detailed description of the entire project, click here.