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vLoc3-DM

In stock

SKU

vLoc3-DM

$999,999.00

Vivax-Metrotech vLoc3-DM Pipeline Defect Mapper and ACVG Locator Kit

The Vivax-Metrotech vLoc3-DM is a pipeline current mapper, coating-defect locator, and precision utility locator designed for evaluating cathodically protected pipelines. It can be used on both transmission and distribution systems to locate the pipeline, measure current along the line, identify areas of current loss, and pinpoint coating defects using ACVG survey methods.

Intermountain Sales offers the vLoc3-DM with two transmitter options: the portable Loc3-25Tx 25-Watt Transmitter and the high-output Loc-150Tx 150-Watt Transmitter. This allows the system to be configured for everything from urban gas-distribution work to long-distance transmission-pipeline surveys.

For pipeline professionals comparing the Vivax-Metrotech vLoc3-DM with the Radiodetection PCM, PCM+, or PCMx Pipeline Current Mapper, the vLoc3-DM provides a modern alternative for ACVG studies, current-attenuation surveys, coating-defect location, depth measurement, pipeline locating, and field-data collection.

Conduct Complete ACVG Pipeline Coating Surveys

Alternating Current Voltage Gradient, commonly called ACVG, is a survey method used to locate and pinpoint defects in the protective coating of a buried pipeline. These defects may also be described as coating faults, coating holidays, or areas where the coating has been damaged or deteriorated.

When a survey signal is applied to the pipeline, electrical current can leave the pipeline and return through the surrounding soil at breaks in the coating. The vLoc3-DM measures changes in the applied current along the pipeline, helping the operator identify sections that may require closer evaluation.

Once an area of interest has been identified, the plug-in A-frame can be used to conduct a detailed ACVG investigation. Directional arrows guide the operator toward the fault, while the receiver displays and records the magnitude of the voltage gradient. By following the directional indications and locating the point where the arrows reverse, the operator can pinpoint the suspected coating defect.

The vLoc3-DM can be used for:

Complete ACVG pipeline surveys
Locating and pinpointing coating holidays
Pipeline current mapping
Current-attenuation and ACCA studies
Evaluating cathodically protected pipelines
Identifying faulty insulation joints
Investigating contact with other metallic structures
Confirming suspected defects before excavation
Supporting corrosion-control and pipeline-integrity programs

Current Mapping Helps Identify Problem Areas

The vLoc3-DM supports low-frequency 3 Hz and 4 Hz current mapping. With the appropriate transmitter connected, the receiver measures the survey current flowing along the pipeline.

By taking measurements at intervals, an operator can evaluate how the current changes over distance. A significant or unexpected reduction in measured current may indicate that current is leaving the pipeline through one or more coating defects. It may also indicate a faulty insulation joint, contact with another metallic structure, or another condition requiring investigation.

This allows the operator to first identify a suspicious section of pipeline and then use the A-frame to perform a more focused ACVG survey within that area.

Real-Time Graphing and Walk-Back Navigation

Pipeline current measurements can be graphed directly on the vLoc3-DM’s bright, full-color display. This allows the operator to review survey results while still in the field instead of waiting to transfer the data to a computer.

When the graph shows an area of unexpected current loss, the Walk Back feature displays the operator’s position relative to previously recorded measurements. The operator can return to the area of interest and conduct a detailed ACVG A-frame survey to locate the suspected coating defect.

Perform Current Mapping and ACVG During the Same Survey

The vLoc3-DM includes a simultaneous survey mode that displays current-mapping and A-frame information together. This allows an operator to evaluate current behavior and look for coating defects during the same pass along the pipeline.

Combining the two survey methods can reduce the need to walk the same section repeatedly. It also gives the operator additional information when deciding whether a current change represents a coating defect or another pipeline condition.

Available with a 25-Watt or 150-Watt Transmitter

Choosing the correct transmitter depends on the type of pipeline, survey distance, available power, accessibility of connection points, soil conditions, and the amount of signal current required.

Intermountain Sales offers both transmitter options and can help configure the vLoc3-DM kit for your specific application.

Loc3-25Tx 25-Watt Portable Transmitter

The Loc3-25Tx is a portable, battery-powered transmitter designed for field crews that need high output without depending on an external power source. It is particularly well suited for gas-distribution systems, urban environments, shorter survey sections, and applications where the crew must move frequently between connection points.

The Loc3-25Tx provides up to 4 amps of peak current and up to 130 volts peak output. Its rugged IP54 enclosure weighs approximately 7.05 pounds, making it easy to transport between survey locations. The transmitter comes in a soft carrying bag and can be operated without removing it from the bag.

The 25-watt transmitter is an excellent choice for:

Gas-distribution pipeline surveys
ACVG coating-defect studies
Surveys without convenient external power
Crews moving between multiple connection points
Deep or difficult-to-energize metallic lines
Coated-pipe holiday locating
General pipe and cable locating

In addition to low-frequency pipeline work, the Loc3-25Tx supports selectable direct-connection frequencies from 32 Hz to 9.82 kHz. It also supports compatible signal-clamp frequencies from 8 kHz to 9.82 kHz, giving it greater versatility for everyday utility-locating applications.

Loc-150Tx 150-Watt Pipeline Transmitter

The Loc-150Tx is a high-output, low-frequency transmitter designed specifically for pipeline current mapping and defect-mapping applications. It is typically connected directly to the pipeline at a cathodic-protection station, rectifier station, or pipeline test post.

The Loc-150Tx can be powered from a CP station, an AC power source, or an external battery. Because it uses external power instead of an internal battery, it is well suited for longer surveys where high output and extended operation are more important than portability.

The 150-watt transmitter is an excellent choice for:

Long-distance transmission-pipeline surveys
Large-diameter pipelines
Long-line current-attenuation studies
Surveys with widely spaced connection points
Applications requiring high-output, low-frequency signals
Connections at CP stations and test posts
Locating coating defects and faulty insulation joints

Its display shows the selected frequency, output current, voltage, and operating warnings. The transmitter also provides overvoltage, overpower, and over-temperature protection.

The Loc-150Tx supports selectable direct-connection frequencies from 98 Hz to 512 Hz. It is strictly a direct-connect transmitter and does not provide clamp or induction operation.

Which Transmitter Should You Choose?

Choose the Loc3-25Tx 25-Watt Transmitter When:

Portability is important
Battery-powered operation is required
Your crew frequently changes connection points
You primarily work on distribution or urban pipeline systems
You want one transmitter for ACVG studies and conventional utility locating
You need compatible signal-clamp operation

Choose the Loc-150Tx 150-Watt Transmitter When:

You are surveying long transmission-pipeline sections
A higher-output, low-frequency signal is required
CP, AC, or external DC power is available
Connection points are widely spaced
The equipment will primarily be used for pipeline current mapping
Survey range is more important than portability

Pipeline diameter, coating condition, soil conductivity, grounding, nearby metallic structures, electrical interference, and available connection points can all affect transmitter selection. Intermountain Sales can help determine which configuration is appropriate for your work.

Advanced Pipeline Locating and Signal-Distortion Detection

The vLoc3-DM is more than a coating-defect mapper. When low-frequency current mapping is not required, its removable low-frequency sensor foot allows the receiver to function as a full-featured precision pipe and cable locator.

Two sets of three-dimensional antennas evaluate the electromagnetic field surrounding the pipeline. The receiver uses this information to display color-coded distortion warnings and provide multiple locating views.

Classic Locate

Classic Locate provides familiar pipeline-locating information, including signal strength, line direction, depth, and the surface distance from the previous measurement.

Transverse Graph

Transverse Graph displays peak and null responses simultaneously. Differences between the two responses can help the operator recognize electromagnetic-field distortion.

Plan View

Plan View displays the relative orientation of the buried pipeline, helping the operator approach and locate the line from different angles.

Vector Locate

Vector Locate provides directional guidance toward the pipeline and calculates its position and depth without requiring a traditional side-to-side walkover.

GPS, Bluetooth and Internal Data Logging

The vLoc3-DM includes internal GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, and extensive data-logging capabilities. Survey records can include:

Mapping current
Pipeline depth
Applied frequency
Operating mode
Signal strength
Gain setting
GPS coordinates
Date and time
Distance between measurements

The receiver can store up to 50 million records. Survey information can be downloaded with Vivax-Metrotech’s free MyLocator3 desktop software and exported in several commonly used formats, including CSV, XLS, XLSX, SHP, KML, and TXT.

A Modern Alternative to the Radiodetection PCM and PCMx

Pipeline professionals searching for a Radiodetection PCM, PCM+, or PCMx are generally looking for equipment that can perform current mapping, ACCA studies, ACVG surveys, depth-of-cover measurements, and coating-defect location.

The Vivax-Metrotech vLoc3-DM is designed for these same core pipeline-survey applications. It combines low-frequency current mapping, A-frame ACVG operation, precision pipeline locating, real-time graphing, internal GPS, Bluetooth, and extensive data logging in one receiver.

Its availability with either a portable 25-watt transmitter or a powerful 150-watt transmitter allows the system to be configured for distribution systems, urban gas networks, or long-distance transmission pipelines.

Radiodetection, PCM, PCM+, and PCMx are trademarks or product names belonging to their respective owner. The vLoc3-DM is manufactured by Vivax-Metrotech and is not a Radiodetection product.

Key vLoc3-DM Features

Complete ACVG surveys with the plug-in A-frame
Pipeline current mapping at 3/6 Hz and 4/8 Hz
Simultaneous current-mapping and A-frame display
Real-time graphing and field-data review
Walk Back navigation to suspicious survey locations
Internal GPS and Bluetooth
Storage for up to 50 million records
Color-coded electromagnetic-distortion warnings
Multiple precision-locating views
Removable low-frequency sensor foot
High-visibility 4.3-inch color display
IP65 receiver enclosure
Rechargeable lithium-ion or AA alkaline battery options
Choice of 25-watt or 150-watt transmitters

Request a vLoc3-DM Quote or Demonstration

Intermountain Sales supplies and supports Vivax-Metrotech pipeline-locating and defect-mapping equipment throughout Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.

We can help configure your vLoc3-DM kit with either the Loc3-25Tx 25-Watt Transmitter or the Loc-150Tx 150-Watt Transmitter. We also provide product demonstrations and hands-on training for pipeline locating, current mapping, and ACVG coating-defect surveys.

Contact Intermountain Sales for pricing, availability, or help selecting the correct vLoc3-DM configuration.

Call (303) 762-1070