What is the purpose of the technique known as lamping?

The technique known as lamping is specifically used to determine if a sewer line is straight and clear of obstructions. This process involves using a light source to visually inspect the interior of the pipeline. When a light is shone down the line, operators can assess whether there are any bends, breaks, or blockages present by observing the transmission and alignment of the light. The visibility provided by the lamping technique enables an accurate assessment of the condition of the sewer line, making it easier to identify maintenance needs or possible repair areas.

The other techniques listed, while important for overall maintenance and troubleshooting in sewer systems, do not describe lamping. For instance, illuminating dark areas is a general lighting purpose, not specific to sewer line inspection. Locating water leaks involves different techniques, such as acoustic monitoring or thermal imaging, and assessing pipe material typically requires physical sampling or specific tests rather than visual inspection. Lamping is distinctly focused on the visual clarity and structural integrity of sewer lines.