What Does
Front Locate Point Mean?
The front locate point is a parameter used in horizontal directional drilling that is used to determine the location and depth of the drill head. Transmitters installed on the drilling equipment emit a magnetic field that spreads out from the borehole to the ground surface.
The point at the front of the drill where the magnetic field meets the ground surface is deemed the front locate point (FLP).
Trenchlesspedia Explains Front Locate Point
The front locate point is important for determining the relative position of the drill head as it advances through the borehole. As the downhole transmitter emits the magnetic field, walkover locating systems are used to determine its azimuth and relative position.
The front locate point is used in conjunction with two other locating points (the rear locate point and the locate line) to determine the depth and overall position of the drill. The further the distance between the front and rear locate point, the greater the depth of the transmitter.