Pneumatic & Hydraulic Couplings Ltd.

Type A1 - Reversible Impact Searcher Bar

The Reversible Impact Searcher Bar

Product Information and Features

Easy to Use

The spike is driven into the ground by a "pile driver" action. The top closure plug hits the boss head of the spike and drives it into the ground.

Handle

The Impact Searcher Bar handle is insulated by means of a 1/4" (6mm) thick rubber covering, bonded onto the tube. Each one is tested to ensure it will resist 22 Kv a.c. in accordance with BS3054 typetest. The rubber covering, as well as its insulation properties, ensures a comfortable non-slip grip for the operator and cushions the blow.

Rubber Flanges

The flanges act as hand guards and flash guards and also protect the barrel of the handle from damage when laid on the ground.

Spike

The searcher bar spike is made from nickel, chrome, molybdenum steel to give strength and durability. The point is hardened to 55-60 HRC.

Reversible Plug

The unique reversible plug system of depth limitation, eliminates the need for two interchangeable spikes. By unscrewing and reversing the plug, the ground depth of the spike is altered from 8" (205mm) to 15" (380mm) or vice versa.

Spike-Securing Screw

This screw holds the spike in place when not in use.

Standards Conformance

The 'Safeway' Searcher Bars conform to Gas Industry Standard GIS/E8:2006. They also conform to clauses 903 and 904 of the Department of the Environment specification for road and bridge works.

Replacement Parts

Replacement parts are available for the impact searcher bar; for more information, see the section on replacement parts.

Directions for Use

  • Place the spike end onto the ground over the area where you wish to discover the leak.
  • Ensure feet are well apart and the bar is a comfortable distance from the body and head.
  • Undo the Spike Retaining Thumb Screw.
  • Raise the handle and force down sharply so the top closure plug (inside the handle) hits the boss head of the spike. The "pile driver" action will drive the spike into the ground – soil, asphalt or concrete – (concrete being the most difficult to penetrate).
  • When you reach the depth required, remove the spike by means of a reverse action of lifting the handle STRAIGHT UP so it hits the boss head of the spike from the underside, so lifting the spike out of the ground in a vertical way.

    NB: DO NOT MOVE THE SPIKE FROM SIDE TO SIDE AS THIS WILL BEND THE METAL. ALSO, DO NOT USE THE SEARCHER BAR AS A "CROW BAR" AS THIS WILL ALSO BEND THE SPIKE.

A neat hole is now made in the ground down which the gas testing probe can be lowered to test for the leak.

  • Retighten the spike retaining Thumb Screw and replace the Rubber protective foot on the end of the spike when the bar is not in use. Store in dry conditions.
  • The Searcher bar is only used for making the hole in the ground; not for measuring gas.

Important Safety Warnings

  • It is recommended that personnel engaged in barholing work shall be equipped with and use protective clothing including goggles, gloves and steel toe-capped safety footwear.
  • Ensure hands and feet are kept well away from the spike tip. Always carry the tool with the spike pointing away from the body.
  • Replace the Rubber Cap on the spike after use and tighten the spike retaining Thumb Screw.
  • Hold the Searcher Bar away from the body and especially the face when driving it into the ground.
  • Do not touch the metal spike when is it inserted into the ground – it may be touching an electrical cable.

For more information on any of our products or to place an order, call us on +44 114 244 2704, fax us on +44 114 244 2705 or fill in our contact form online.

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