August 15, 2007
For Immediate Release

3M Expands RFID Marker System for Underground Facilities

London, ON – 3M is expanding the product family for RFID-enabled electronic utility markers by releasing 3M™ Near-Surface Marker and 3M™ Full-Range Marker to address the broad range of permanent marking needs.

3M RFID markers locate specific underground facilities precisely and efficiently. The new markers are designed for both shallow markings two feet (60 centimetres) below the surface, and deeply-buried applications at eight feet (2.4 metres). Both are available as active (programmable) or passive (non-programmable).

“As the complexity and value of underground services continues to grow, there is an increasing need for accurate and reliable database mapping at deeper levels,” said Jim McManus, Business Manager, Track and Trace Solutions. “3M’s new RFID markers facilitate increased productivity and effectively prevent damage to vital lines beneath the surface.”

When placing underground pipelines or cables, durable, anti-freeze fluid-filled marker balls containing an electronic  tuned circuit and electronic marker RFID (tags) are buried above key underground elements. These markers use the new RFID technology (custom RFID chip inside), programmable in the field, which stores specific details of that marking tailored to a specific company’s needs. RFID tag information ranges from marker identification number and installer’s name, to the purpose and date of installation.

GPS coordinates indicate where the elements are, making companies safer and more productive. The handheld 3M Dynatel 2200M-ID Series Receiver, pinpoints the location of these markers by using industry established utility marker frequencies, even when diverse utility markers are adjacent to one another. The RFID tags are located with a utility-specific radio frequency signal and respond to the locator with the programmed details.

3M’s RFID marker system is the first of its kind in the industry, and is designed to outlast the life of the facility it marks. This system is useful in many underground facilities and is currently used by a leading telecommunications company in Canada.

Contact 3M Canada PR Department.

3M is a trademark of 3M. Used under license in Canada.