TRACER WIRE PRODUCT AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE OF THE SAME

摘要

A tracer wire product for use in detection of underground utility line or routes includes: a metallic wire configured to conduct an electrical signal for detection by an aboveground signal detector; a tin coating formed over the metallic wire; a non-fibrous insulating jacket of polyethylene over the tin coating; a hot melt adhesive at least partially over the polyethylene jacket; a high tenacity woven polyester strength element with water blocking fibers being formed over the hot melt adhesive and the polyethylene jacket; and, an abrasion resistant HDPE outer jacket formed over the high tenacity woven polyester strength element to form one of a circular or oval cross-sectional shape. Further, an apparatus and method for manufacturing the tracer wire product includes a source of a substantially flat polyester woven material; a source of a metal wire material; and an elongated forming tool including an input base into which the substantially flat polyester woven material is fed. The elongated forming tool also includes an outlet member downstream of the input base and including a restricted passage for receiving the metal wire material, and concurrently folding the substantially flat polyester woven material about the metal wire material.

主权项

1. An apparatus for manufacturing a tracer wire product, comprising:
a source of a substantially flat polyester woven material; a source of a metal wire material; an elongated forming tool including an input base into which the substantially flat polyester woven material is fed; said elongated forming tool also including an outlet member downstream of said input base and including a restricted passage for receiving said metal wire material, and concurrently folding said substantially flat polyester woven material about said metal wire material.