If there is a need to cut into concrete then it is necessary to identify electrical lines and metal targets before it is carried out. If the location for cables, rebars, and conduits are not marked before cutting, and digging, drilling, trenching, or coring is carried out then it can easily result in mishaps and cost overruns. In the following sections let us look at how GPR used for concrete scanning in Montreal can help you save on cost.
How can GPR help avoid mishaps and save on cost?
At the time of concrete drilling or cutting if buried or embedded obstructions get hit then it can have disastrous results. It can cause project delays, increase expenditure, and result in worker hazards. In addition, if a rebar that is helping to strengthen the beam structure is cut, this may result in damage and failure of the structure. Moreover, if electrical conduits are cut then it can cause serious injuries as well as result in the shut down at job sites.
Ground Penetrating Radar – Better Than X-Ray Technology
Earlier, X-rays were the method used for locating as well as identifying embedded targets in a non-destructive way. GPR has been able to replace X-ray technology since it works more quickly and provides accurate results. Another important aspect of GPR is that it is not a radioactive method, which means GPR can be safely used while other workers are present at the job site. In addition, GPR is much more affordable and it is also easier to use in comparison to X-ray.
GPR concrete scanning can result in minor delays, however, it results in better analysis and reduces the delays that can occur if the conduit is to be shut down or when the water main is hit during concrete cutting. Thus, there are no damaged pipes or structures when GPR is used and you do not have to spend time and money on repairing any damage.
Importance of GPR in Cutting Down Costs
In this section let us look at an example that amply illustrates the fact that GPR plays a vital role in reducing the cost that you would otherwise have to bear when GPR is not used before work is started.
Suppose, some work is to be performed for capping sanitary lines in a hospital. Instead of GPR, if the concrete cutting firm makes use of a jackhammer for breaking the wall and caps the line, then it can have grave consequences.
For instance, if there is an electrical closet on the opposite side then the use of a jackhammer will completely destroy or damage the electrical closet. In such a situation, there will be no other option for the hospital other than shutting off the power lines till repairs are completed. The services affected by a shutdown would cost a lot more to the hospital than what would have been the expenditure on using GPR for scanning the wall before the cutting was carried out.
From the above details it is quite clear that GPR helps you save money, both directly as well as indirectly, protects electrical conduits, and reduces safety hazards that your workers would have to face.