cable localizador
/kable lokaliθadoɾ/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'tracer wire' is translated into Spanish as cable localizador.
In construction and utility work, cable localizador refers to a conductive wire buried alongside non-metallic pipes or cables to allow them to be detected from the surface.
What does it mean word for word?
The term cable localizador is composed of cable (cable) and localizador (locator or one that locates).
Which one should you use?
While cable localizador is the standard term, cable de trazabilidad (traceability cable) may be used in certain technical contexts. For formal translations, you may also encounter Alambre rastreador or Hilo rastreador (tracking thread).
Did you know?
- Although cable is a common Spanish word, it was not inherited from Latin but was borrowed from the French word câble.
- While cable localizador is the standard term, a technician might use hilo rastreador to specifically refer to a very thin wire. In this context, the word hilo, which usually means 'thread', distinguishes the small wire from much thicker electrical cables.
- Technical workers in Spain and Latin America may use cable de trazabilidad when referring to the legal or regulatory requirement to track an asset, rather than the physical act of finding it with a machine.
Examples in context
- Cuando instales el sistema eléctrico subterráneo, asegúrate de utilizar un alambre rastreador para futuras referencias.When installing the underground electrical system, make sure to use a tracer wire for future reference.
- Necesitamos instalar un cable localizador junto a la tubería.We need to install a tracer wire next to the pipe.
- El cable localizador ayuda a encontrar el conducto enterrado.The tracer wire helps locate the buried conduit.
- Sin el cable localizador, no podremos hallar el cable plástico.Without the tracer wire, we won't be able to find the plastic cable.
Example conversation
At a construction site, a technician is checking equipment.
- SofíaDaniel, ¿trajiste el cable localizador para la nueva tubería?Daniel, did you bring the tracer wire for the new pipe?
- DanielSí, Sofía, ya lo tengo aquí en la caja.Yes, Sofía, I already have it here in the box.
- SofíaPerfecto, es esencial para marcar el recorrido.Perfect, it is essential for marking the route.
- DanielLo instalaré antes de cerrar la zanja.I will install it before closing the trench.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cable, localizador, CC BY-SA 4.0.
