GPAR or GPAR detection has been used for a very long time. Today, this method has become an essential tool for people working in the construction industry; this detection method is capable of ensuring the detection of ducts, which guarantees the safety of workers and avoids hitting other elements buried in the ground. GPR has also become an important tool for detecting hard-to-identify objects in the ground.
In fact, a growing number of companies that specialize in this sector have been observed. GPR detection represents the future of underground scanning. Over time, this tool will improve and become even more strategic than it already is. There are still important questions to be asked, such as how this technology came about and what can be done with a GPR.
What is GPR?
GPR or ground penetrating radar is used in several areas to observe artificial and natural elements located underground. GPR allows detection of underground tanks, metal and non-metallic pipes, electrical lines, detection of underground conduit such as water pipes, rebar and post-tension cables inside concrete.
GPR waves are equal to those of a cellular phone or Wi-Fi network, while x-rays require 50 feet of clearance before being used for safety reasons. In general, GPR is the most cost-effective option and the fastest method to test concrete.
The principle of using radio waves to determine the internal structures of the soil has long been known. Early work in this area included the use of radio echo sounders to determine the thickness of ice sheets in the Antarctic and Arctic and to measure the thickness of glaciers, which was undoubtedly the greatest success. GPR detection in non-glacial locations was initiated in the early 1970s and early achievements focused on work on permafrost soils.
The Different Uses of the GPR
GPAR testing is a very effective way to analyze and identify objects buried in the ground, however this detection method is also used in several ways:
To Locate Underground Infrastructure
It is important to locate underground infrastructures or utilities such as conduits, cables, fiber optic lines, water tanks, valves, objects of all kinds, pipes and many other elements.
To Control the Roads
GPR is often used to control roads, the foundation and the underlying layers. It can be used to plan, protect and rehabilitate the underlying coating.
To Scan Concrete
GPR is used primarily to locate and reinforce steel in concrete structures. GPR can locate electrical cables and conduits. In addition, GPR can also identify gaps in the base of a concrete floor and verify the integrity of the concrete. This technology is non-invasive and poses no risk to workers and structures.
For the Environment and Archaeology
GPR is a very important tool to delineate landfills, to know the level of contamination or saturation, and also to locate underground reservoirs. If you want to map an area, GPR is effective for this task. It can locate unmarked graves and cultural data on a map.
Factors Affecting Ground Radar Testing
Even though GPR detection is very effective in locating different objects in the ground, certain factors can affect it, such as the moisture content in the ground, areas with strong electromagnetic signals, the depth of the target elements and areas that contain several objects that are difficult to identify.
On the other hand, even if the EM scan covers the same area to be scanned, it would be faster and cheaper, but it would give an insufficient amount of data especially if there are non-metallic underground cables. This would result in unsafe excavation conditions, keeping in mind that the project must be on budget and not cause problems. Therefore, to detect underground cables, the best tool we can provide is our qualified technicians and their training.
We believe that each employee has a common obligation and responsibility to avoid incidents or accidents. Monthly safety training and risk analysis on site are just some of the ways we ensure that our technicians avoid incidents. In fact, the way the technician is trained to use each technology far exceeds the importance of that technology.
The Methods
There are several methods that can be used to perform GPR detection or GPR testing. It all depends, of course, on the purpose of the project and the need for data. In general, rectangular or straight grids are used on the area to be scanned, which then transfer the data to the computer. A scan can be performed with a grid or chain. The chain allows real-time cross-sectional vision with data and the grid allows for quick data extraction, which is then used for map development.
Conclusion
While always being at the forefront of technology is a challenge for our company, the processes we create and continuously clarify over time make us unique in this industry and allow us to maximize our utility discoveries and lower costs for our customers. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information about this service!