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Gyroscopic Measurement
Nowadays, many pipelines are installed using horizontal directional drilling. This technique makes it possible to cross obstacles such as roads, rail lines, and waterways without open-cut excavation. Because these pipelines are often buried deep and under complex conditions, knowing their exact location is essential.
Gyroscopic Measurement
What is it, and why is it necessary?
Manyunderground pipelines are now installed using horizontal directional drilling. This method makes it possible to drill from point A to point B with minimal disruption, for example, under shopping districts, railroad tracks, or waterways. The pipelines installed in this way are often of vital importance. Precisely because they are located at great depths and under complex conditions, it is essential to know their exact location.
Gyroscopic measurement offers the ideal solution for this. This advanced measurement technique provides accurate 3D positioning data for pipelines installed via directional drilling. During the measurement, we pull an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) through the drill pipe. It is equipped with sensors that continuously record information about orientation, direction, and acceleration. The result? An extremely reliable and detailed 3D profile of the underground borehole.
How does it work?
Gyroscopic measurement?
Prior to the actual gyroscopic survey, we excavate the start and end points of the pipeline and verify the drilling configuration. Next, a pull spring is fed through the pipe, after which we attach guide ropes for the IMU. Using winches, we pull the IMU slowly and in a controlled manner through the pipe. This process is repeated in both directions to ensure measurement accuracy.
The surveying of the start and end points forms the basis for the final processing. The collected data is analyzed using specialized software, after which we generate a detailed top view and a cross-section of the borehole. We deliver these to the client as part of a comprehensive gyroscopic measurement report.
When is it gyroscopic?
Is this the right choice?
Gyroscopic surveying of directional drilling is particularly well-suited for situations requiring high precision. This method is fast, efficient, and extremely reliable. Ideally, the measurement is performed immediately after the pipeline is installed, as accessibility is greatest at that time. However, in many cases it is also possible to perform gyroscopic measurements on existing pipelines, for example through an empty casing that is still accessible.
Even if the pipe is accessible from only one side, we can often still perform a successful measurement. Is access impossible? In that case, we consider alternative techniques such as drilling into the pipe or using the TerraProbe.