How To Scope Drainage Tunnel In Cumbria

Cumbria is a county in North West England where drainage plays a crucial role in maintaining the region's infrastructure. Drainage systems are designed to remove excess water from areas and transport it to a safe location, preventing flooding and damage to properties. Drainage Cumbria is a leading drainage company in the region, providing expert solutions to both commercial and residential clients.

One of the most critical aspects of maintaining a drainage system is maintaining its tunnels. Over time, tunnels can become blocked, causing water backups and even leading to structural damage. Regular maintenance and inspection of drainage tunnels are essential for their longevity and efficient performance. Here are some tips on how to scope a drainage tunnel in Cumbria.

Location Finding

Before scoping a drainage tunnel, it is crucial to know the location of the drain. This can be achieved by first mapping out the area and identifying where the drainage system runs. In some cases, the drainage system runs underground, making it more difficult to locate. In such situations, a thorough search of the area would be necessary to pinpoint the exact location of the tunnel.

Tools

Once the location of the tunnel is known, the right tools need to be gathered. The tools for scoping a drainage tunnel include a bolt cutter, a wooden rod, and an airstrip. The bolt cutter is needed to open up the tunnel entrance as some tunnels have grates or bars that prevent access. The wooden rod is used to push the camera through the tunnel, while the airstrip is required to clean it. It is essential to ensure the tools are in good working condition before starting the scoping process.

Preparation

Before starting the scoping process, it is vital to ensure the area around the tunnel entrance is clear. This ensures easy access to the tunnel and prevents any potential hazards. The bolt cutter should be used to cut any obstructions on the tunnel entrance, and the site should be well lit. The camera should also be prepared by attaching it to the wooden rod and ensuring it is in good working condition.

Scoping

With the preparation complete, it's time to start scoping the tunnel. The wooden rod with the camera attached should be carefully inserted into the tunnel. As the camera moves through the tunnel, it captures images that show the condition of the tunnel interior. Signs of blockages or damage can be identified through the images captured, and the information obtained can be used to take corrective action.

Blockage Identification

One of the primary reasons for scoping a drainage tunnel is to identify blockages. When a blockage is identified, the cause needs to be determined before any corrective action can be taken. Some of the most common causes of blockages include debris, grease buildup, and tree roots. All these causes can be identified through the images captured by the camera.

Damage Identification

Another reason for scoping drainage tunnels is to identify any damage to the tunnel interior. Damage can be caused by factors such as aging or heavy usage, and it can lead to serious structural damage if not addressed. Identifying and repairing damage early helps prevent more significant damage from occurring.

Corrective Action

After the blockages or damages have been identified, corrective action can be taken. The type of corrective action taken will depend on the nature and extent of the blockages or damage. It could be a simple cleaning and flushing of the drain or more complex measures such as repair or replacement. The images captured during the scoping process will help in deciding the most appropriate corrective action to take.

Conclusion

Scoping drainage tunnels is a crucial step in maintaining the efficient operation of a drainage system. It helps to identify blockages, damages, and other issues that could lead to flooding, property damage, or even structural damage. Drainage Cumbria, being a leading drainage company in Cumbria, has the tools, equipment, and expertise needed to provide efficient and reliable scoping services. If you require drainage scoping services, don't hesitate to contact us at Drainage Cumbria on 01228 734162, and our team of experts will be happy to help.