Abstract: A gas flow test apparatus and method include a flow monitor that is selectively connectable to a gas pipeline. An air motor driven regenerative blower is used to increase the flow of gas through the around a blockage in the pipeline to simulate an increased gas loading condition on the intake side of the apparatus. The gas drawn from the intake side is not vented to the atmosphere, but rather, is discharged to the exhaust side of the apparatus back into the pipeline. Pipeline pressure is measured on the intake side of the apparatus to ensure that gas supply is adequate for blocking off the pipeline for maintenance.

Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.

Abstract: A system for extracting liquid from a pipeline includes a flexible elongate member having a first end and including a conduit having an intake port proximate the first end for receiving the liquid. The system also includes a camera arrangement attached to the first end of the flexible elongate member, and a connection arrangement disposed between the camera arrangement and the first end of the flexible elongate member. The connection arrangement including at least one opening in fluid communication with the intake port such that the liquid can pass through the opening and into the intake port.

Abstract: A testing system and method for performing integrity testing in a gas piping system include using a motorized pump to pressurize the piping system. A pressure sensor is used for measuring the pressure in the piping system, and an input device receives inputs from an operator related to a test to be performed. An output device is provided for communicating information to the operator. A control system includes at least one controller and is configured to: control the pump to pressurize the piping system to a predetermined pressure, receive inputs from the pressure sensor, and output data related to the pressure of the piping system.

Abstract: A system and method for raising utility boxes includes locating a hidden utility box that is paved over or otherwise covered and not visible from above the ground. A rough locating technique may be used to get within the general vicinity of the box, followed by a more finely tuned locating technique to pinpoint the exact location of the box. With the location accurately known, a system including a core drill is used to cut through the material covering the box, without the need to excavate large areas of roadway or other ground cover. Once having access the utility box, it is extended, raised or replaced such that it is visible and accessible from the then current ground level.

Abstract: A system for extracting liquid from a pipeline includes a flexible elongate member having a first end and including a conduit having an intake port proximate the first end for receiving the liquid therein. The system also includes a camera arrangement attached to the first end of the flexible elongate member, and a connection arrangement disposed between the camera arrangement and the first end of the flexible elongate member. The connection arrangement including at least one opening in fluid communication with the intake port such that the liquid can pass through the opening and into the intake port.

Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.

Abstract: A gas flow test apparatus and method include a flow monitor that is selectively connectable to a gas pipeline. An air motor driven regenerative blower is used to increase the flow of gas through the around a blockage in the pipeline to simulate an increased gas loading condition on the intake side of the apparatus. The gas drawn from the intake side is not vented to the atmosphere, but rather, is discharged to the exhaust side of the apparatus back into the pipeline. Pipeline pressure is measured on the intake side of the apparatus to ensure that gas supply is adequate for blocking off the pipeline for maintenance.

Abstract: A testing system and method for performing integrity testing in a gas piping system include using a motorized pump to pressurize the piping system. A pressure sensor is used for measuring the pressure in the piping system, and an input device receives inputs from an operator related to a test to be performed. An output device is provided for communicating information to the operator. A control system includes at least one controller and is configured to: control the pump to pressurize the piping system to a predetermined pressure, receive inputs from the pressure sensor, and output data related to the pressure of the piping system.

Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.

Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.

Abstract: A system and method for inhibiting gas release while accessing a pressurized gas pipeline includes a magnetic plug holder for magnetically engaging a pipe plug to a rod. A housing is sealingly engaged to a valve attached to the pipeline, and the rod is movable through the housing in a sealing fashion such that the plug holder can be moved linearly and rotationally relative to the housing. The housing can be sealingly attached to a portion of the valve, the valve can be opened, and the plug holder with a threaded plug magnetically engaged thereto lowered through the valve. The rod can be rotated from outside the housing to thread the plug into the threaded hole in the pipeline.

Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.

Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.

Abstract: A method for managing corrosion of an underground structure includes placing an anode in the ground and electrically connecting it to the underground structure. Access to the ground is obtained through a container at least partially buried in the ground, such that the surface of the ground proximate the container does not need to be penetrated in order to position the anode. A hole is bored through a wall of the container to access the ground proximate the container. Material is removed from the ground to provide a location for the anode. The anode is placed in the ground and backfilled with an electrically conductive backfill. A wire leading from the anode is then terminated inside the container at an electrical connection with another electrical conductor connected to the underground structure. The lid is replaced on the container, and the entire process is performed without penetrating the surface of the ground proximate the container.

Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition-for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.

Abstract: An apparatus for attaching a handheld tool to a bucket of a prime mover includes a first plate having an aperture therethrough. The aperture is configured to receive a fastener for attaching the first plate to the bucket. A second plate is disposed opposite the first plate, and includes a second aperture therethrough for receiving a fastener for attaching the second plate to the bucket. A support structure is attached to the first and second plates, and is configured to support the handheld tool. A first clamp is attached to the support structure, and sized to receive a portion of the handheld tool, thereby at least partially securing the handheld tool to the support structure.