Abstract: A method of mapping voltage potential along a metal structural member extending underground through a range of depths comprises the steps of providing a voltage meter having positive and negative terminals, a reference electrode connected to the positive terminal, and a half-cell connected to the negative terminal; forming at least one hole in the ground alongside the structural member; contacting the reference electrode with the structural member at an aboveground location; and positioning the half-cell at a series of test points in the hole(s) and taking a series of voltage potential measurements respectively corresponding to the series of test points, wherein the test points are located at different depths. Preferably, the method further comprises the step of plotting test point depth versus voltage potential. A novel drill bit for drilling the hole through earth comprises a common wood-boring auger shank and a flat masonry-style drill bit tip.

Abstract: A method of mapping voltage potential along a metal structural member extending underground through a range of depths comprises the steps of providing a voltage meter having positive and negative terminals, a reference electrode connected to the positive terminal, and a half-cell connected to the negative terminal; forming at least one hole in the ground alongside the structural member; contacting the reference electrode with the structural member at an aboveground location; and positioning the half-cell at a series of test points in the hole(s) and taking a series of voltage potential measurements respectively corresponding to the series of test points, wherein the test points are located at different depths. Preferably, the method further comprises the step of plotting test point depth versus voltage potential. A novel drill bit for drilling the hole through earth comprises a common wood-boring auger shank and a flat masonry-style drill bit tip.