Comparison of EC and PID response of two MIP logs run through free-product gasoline within 5 ft. of each other. Log with shaded background was run using the new heated trunkline. Notice how quickly the PID baseline returns after encountering free product. The log ran using standard Teflon® trunkline (clear background) shows typical slurred baseline drop.

One of the biggest challenges faced by MIP operators is downtime between logs while the system ‘cleans out’ and refreshes. A new MIP Heated Trunkline reduces total downtime on a project from hours to minutes! The MIP Heated Trunkline, coupled with the use of a very inert yet durable gas line, enhances plume definition. The elevated temperature eliminates cold trapping zones and keeps the contaminants moving through the trunkline which reduces the typical slurred baseline drop of standard trunklines.

Dan Pipp, Geoprobe® Chemist and MIP Specialist, has been running the MIP Heated Trunkline for the last eight months. “The Heated Trunkline gives me the confidence to run MIP in free-product zones where I would have previously experienced problems,” says Dan. “It shows a much clearer picture of the true plume thickness, especially in source zones.”

Close to pre-log baseline levels can be seen within 10 feet of encountering free-product gasoline, and post log cleanup time is reduced to approximately 15 minutes that previously could have taken well over an hour to reach these levels. “I think the improvement in plume definition and productivity could result in the heated trunkline becoming required by consultants and regulators for site mapping,” Dan added.

An additional benefit of the heated trunkline is the elimination of water vapors condensing in the gas lines which simplifies MIP operation in cold weather climates.