Method and apparatus for locating underground water pipes

A method for the non-visual detection and location of water pipes comprising the steps of:

• selecting an acoustical pipe location system, itself comprising:
• vibration generating means for generating low frequency acoustical vibrations and propagating said low frequency acoustical vibrations into a water pipe and a point of vibration introduction;
• sound detection means for detecting said low frequency acoustical vibrations at a point of vibration detection, remote from said point of application, said sound detection means having signal output means for generating a signal which is proportional to the amplitude of the detected low frequency acoustical vibrations;
• signal strength display means attached to said sound detection means for displaying human perceptible indicia which indicates a range of amplitudes of said detected acoustical waves from a low amplitude to a high amplitude limit;
• attaching said vibration generating means to a pipe network components which is connected, at least indirectly, to a length of pipe to be located;
• actuating said sound detection means and said signal strength display means;
• passing said sound detection means over a surface under or behind which said pipe to be located is suspected to be located;
• observing indications of said signal strength display means and stopping said passing when said indications indicate a maximum apparent measurement of said vibrations by said sound detection means, and noting the location where said maximum apparent measurement occurred as an indication of the location of said pipe.