The Future of Locating
Utilities are installing more PVC and HDPE water mains, but these non-metallic pipes can be difficult to locate before excavation. This article explains why electromagnetic methods often struggle, where acoustic locating fits, and how utilities can reduce risk in the field.
In Clovis, California, Solinas Technologies helped locate a difficult large-diameter concrete water trunk main where soil conditions limited GPR and traditional electromagnetic locating methods faced challenges. Using acoustic vibration rather than electrical conductivity, the SonicFinder 1000 provided a practical surface-based workflow for tracking the pipe alignment through a difficult section.
Solinas Technologies announced the expansion of its non-invasive plastic pipe locating technology into the Asia-Pacific market ahead of Singapore International Water Week 2026. The initiative begins with Australia and supports growing demand for locating solutions for non-metallic buried infrastructure.