Fluke Corporation has introduced its latest innovation, the SmartTraceā¢ 2082 Series of Underground Locators, designed to improve the safety and accuracy of locating underground utilities. This new product integrates seamlessly with ProStar'sĀ® PointManĀ® app, providing field teams with the tools needed to quickly and effectively track and manage buried assets. The announcement was made on March 18, 2026, from the company's headquarters in Everett, Washington.
The SmartTrace system aims to tackle ongoing challenges in the construction and utility industries, where accidental strikes on underground utilities can cause significant delays and safety hazards. According to the Common Ground Alliance, the U.S. experiences between 400,000 to 800,000 utility strikes annually, underscoring the critical need for reliable locating solutions. With Fluke's SmartTrace, workers can now document and verify the positioning of underground assets in real time, mitigating risks associated with excavation projects. Learn more on Investopedia.
Revolutionizing Underground Utility Location
The SmartTrace 2082 Series offers advanced features that provide detailed information about the location, depth, and trajectory of underground cables and pipes. This capability is vital for identifying unknown assets that might otherwise lead to costly damages. The technology used in SmartTrace allows for the detection of faults, such as ground faults and sheath defects, in pipelines or cables that are in contact with the ground.
By utilizing advanced signal injection techniques, SmartTrace can accurately trace assets buried up to six meters deep. This precision is crucial for ensuring that excavation activities proceed safely, preventing potential hazards before they arise. The device is designed with user-friendliness in mind, equipped with an automatic function that selects the appropriate locating mode based on the accessories connected to the transmitter.
Smart Integration with PointMan App
One of the standout features of the SmartTrace system is its integration with ProStar's PointMan app. This application enhances the user experience by allowing operators to map and document utility locations directly on their smartphones. The Bluetooth connectivity ensures that data captured in the field can be easily recorded and referenced for future projects.
The geolocation capability of the PointMan app significantly improves the accuracy of asset tracking, allowing workers to monitor the status of underground utilities in real-time. This integration not only streamlines the documentation process but also establishes a reliable database for ongoing and upcoming projects, ultimately fostering a more efficient workflow.
Addressing Industry Challenges and Enhancing Safety
Fluke's Chief Product Officer, Vineet Thuvara, emphasized the importance of SmartTrace in addressing the challenges faced by utility workers. "Accidental damage to underground utilities remains a major challenge, contributing to what the Common Ground Alliance reports as 400,000 to 800,000 utility strikes annually in the U.S. alone," Thuvara stated. "To help teams work safer and smarter, SmartTrace represents the next step in digital utility management-bringing real-time accuracy and connected intelligence to one of the most critical stages of any project."
This commitment to safety and efficiency is evident in the design of SmartTrace. It is the only underground utilities locator on the market equipped with a CAT IV 600V transmitter, ensuring reliable tracing methods even in challenging environments. As a result, utility workers can confidently engage in excavation work, knowing they have the necessary tools to avoid damaging essential infrastructure.
Moreover, the intuitive nature of the SmartTrace device allows it to adapt to various locating functions automatically, catering to the diverse needs of field teams. This functionality is particularly beneficial for utilities and contractors who often work with a wide range of buried assets.
In a sector where precision and safety are paramount, Fluke's SmartTrace and its integration with the PointMan app represent a significant advancement in the methodology of managing underground utilities. The technology not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to overall safety in the workplace.
As the industry continues to evolve, tools like SmartTrace will likely become indispensable for utility managers and field workers alike. The combination of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly applications heralds a new era of asset management that prioritizes both safety and accuracy, ensuring that teams can navigate the complexities of underground infrastructure with confidence.
Originally reported by Globe Newswire. View original.