Passive Ball Marker

Passive Ball Marker

The Passive Ball Marker is a highly efficient and durable underground utility marking solution designed to assist in the precise location of buried infrastructure. Whether used in telecommunication, gas, electric, water, or wastewater systems, the passive ball marker provides a reliable, maintenance-free way to mark and locate subsurface utilities for years to come.

Product Overview

The Passive Ball Marker utilizes passive radio frequency (RF) technology to help operators locate underground utilities quickly and accurately. Unlike traditional markers or visual indicators, this spherical marker does not require any power source or maintenance and remains functional even after decades of being buried. Each marker is tuned to a specific frequency corresponding to a particular utility type, allowing field crews to identify and distinguish between various utility lines with ease.

The spherical shape ensures that the marker maintains optimal orientation, regardless of how it’s installed, enhancing detection range and accuracy in all soil types and conditions.

Key Features

• Spherical Design: The ball shape allows for 360-degree signal transmission and guarantees the correct orientation, eliminating installation errors and improving detection from any angle.
• Passive Technology: No batteries or external power are required. Once installed, the marker remains operational indefinitely.
• Utility-Specific Frequencies: Available in industry-standard frequencies tailored for gas, water, telecom, electric, sewer, and other underground utilities.
• High Durability: Made from high-impact, waterproof, and corrosion-resistant materials designed to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
• Color-Coded Shells: Markers are encased in utility-specific color-coded housings for easy visual identification during installation and inspection.
• Extended Detection Range: Offers an excellent detection range using a compatible locator, making it easier to pinpoint utilities even at greater depths.

Applications

The Passive Ball Marker is suitable for a wide range of underground utility marking needs:

• Gas Pipelines: Accurate marking of transmission and distribution lines.
• Water Mains: Ensures easy future identification of critical water infrastructure.
• Telecommunication Lines: Marks buried fiber optic or copper communication lines.
• Electric Cables: Identifies underground electrical conduits and cables.
• Wastewater and Sewer Lines: Helps in maintenance and location of buried sewer networks.
• Municipal and Utility Projects: Ideal for long-term underground asset management in urban development projects.

Benefits

1. Accurate Location: Provides pinpoint accuracy in identifying the exact location of buried utilities, reducing guesswork.
2. Increased Safety: Prevents unintentional damage to buried assets during excavation or construction activities.
3. Time and Cost Savings: Helps avoid costly utility repairs, delays, and service disruptions by simplifying location processes.
4. Long-Term Reliability: Designed to last over 50 years under normal burial conditions, requiring no maintenance.
5. Eco-Friendly: No chemicals, emissions, or battery waste, making it an environmentally responsible solution.

Technical Specifications

• Shape: Spherical (Ball)
• Diameter: Typically 4″–6″ depending on model
• Detection Range: Up to 5 feet or more, depending on soil conditions and locator type
• Operating Frequencies: Industry-standard frequencies (e.g., 83 kHz for gas, 101.4 kHz for telecom, etc.)
• Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar rugged plastic
• Color Options: Yellow (Gas), Blue (Water), Orange (Telecom), Red (Electric), Green (Sewer), etc.

Installation Instructions

Installation is simple and efficient. The Passive Ball Marker should be placed directly above the utility line at a depth of 12″ to 48″, depending on site requirements. Since the marker is spherical, it self-orients to the optimal position, eliminating installation errors. It can be installed during new construction or retrofitted during utility maintenance or upgrades.

Conclusion

The Passive Ball Marker offers an innovative and highly effective way to mark and locate underground utilities with precision. Its durable construction, passive RF technology, and user-friendly design make it an essential tool for utility companies, municipalities, and contractors focused on safe and efficient infrastructure management. With no moving parts, no power requirements, and long-lasting performance, it’s a smart investment in underground utility safety and maintenance.