First generation tracer wire: It is composed of a matrix of aluminum foil and plastic film. The aluminum foil is mainly used for transmitting signals, and the matrix is a fixed aluminum foil. The disadvantages of this tracer wire are that the strength of the aluminum foil is very low, and it is easy to break even during production and transportation. The auxiliary equipment is easily damaged, and the resistance of the aluminum foil is very high, which limits the effective detection distance and depth.

Second generation tracer wire: It is made by pressing steel wire and plastic film. The tracer wire is made of steel wire as the conductor, with high resistance and limited detection distance, making it difficult to meet practical needs.

Third generation tracer wire: It is composed of copper clad steel metal wire core and PE outer protective layer, with a linear appearance. Taking the HX-13II tracer wire as an example

Alternative products for tracer wire

In the absence of third-generation tracer wire and the inability of second-generation products to meet the requirements, wires have become a substitute for tracer wire. However, since wires are not designed specifically for PE pipeline tracing, their use as "tracer wire" has many limitations.

High cost: As a tracer wire, the cost of wires is relatively expensive.

Poor corrosion resistance and aging resistance: The outer surface insulation layer of the wire is PVC, which is easy to age after being buried, and is insufficient compared with PE material.

Tensile strength: The metal core of the wire is made of copper material, which has limitations in tensile strength. When used in conventional and non excavation auxiliary equipment, the probability of fracture is relatively high.