When it comes to analyzing objects embedded in concrete structures, there are a number of methods. Of all these methods, however, ground-penetrating radar is by far the most effective. In this article, we will explore the importance of using GPR before drilling into concrete.
Risks of Not Using GPR
GPR, or ground-penetrating radar, should be used before any concrete drilling project for a variety of reasons.
It is possible that various materials are embedded inside the concrete, and proceeding with construction before employing GPR can be disastrous. Objects commonly found inside concrete include live wires, post-tension cables, utilities, conduits, pipes, and voids. GPR can identify such objects so that one can proceed in an effective manner, avoiding time-consuming and costly setbacks that result in contact with these objects.
Construction projects face a number of risks when GPR is not used for concrete scanning.
Prevents Damage to Rebar and Reinforcing Steel
Firstly, the Ground Penetrating Radar prevents damage to rebar and reinforcing steel. It is crucial to identify materials embedded in concrete, such as rebar, so that drilling can be performed without contacting these materials. If a drill makes contact with embedded materials, damage ensues, leading to setbacks such as unnecessary delays and increased expenditures. By scanning the concrete beforehand using GPR, the integrity of the concrete slab may be preserved, eliminating or greatly reducing the necessity for patches or repairs.
When a drill makes contact with a rebar, slicing it in the process, the concrete structure will weaken, resulting in unstable or unsafe working conditions. Furthermore, not only will damage to the concrete structure occur, but damage to the drill itself will likely result. This, of course, will lead to further delays and increased costs, due to the necessity of repairing or replacing the drill.
Prevents Damage to Electrical Conduits
GPR will also allow one to avoid damaging electrical conduits embedded in concrete structures. When electrical conduits are damaged, serious problems ensue.
For one, the risk of electrocution increases, posing a severe safety hazard to personnel. Secondly, damaged electrical conduits cause power outages, which lead to work stoppages and increased costs.
Helps Identify Voids
Analyzing the structural integrity of concrete using GPR also allows one to identify voids. These voids develop over time and detecting them from the concrete’s surface is challenging, if not impossible. If left undetected, these voids can severely undermine the structural integrity of the concrete, leading to complete collapse and the resulting safety and cost impacts. The effective and non-invasive technique of GPR allows one to detect such voids and avoid complications.
Lowers Business Risks
Lowering business risk is yet another benefit of using GPR before concrete drilling. When underground conduits are damaged during the drilling process, it leaves a business susceptible to costly penalties and fines. This, in turn, leads to budget overruns and may tarnish the reputation of an organization. The preventative method of GPR is ideal here too.
Provides Accurate Imaging
Unlike other detection methods, GPR provides accurate imaging that is useful in the analyses of concrete slabs at various depths. Details pertaining to the orientation and depth of conduits embedded in the concrete are also provided, resulting in invaluable information.
Reduces Processing Delays
Not only does GPR reduce delays in the form of unnecessary work stoppages, it also reduces delays between scanning a concrete structure and processing the results. GPR provides real-time assessments, allowing the drilling process to be expedited.
A Non-Invasive Method
It is also important to use GPR before drilling due to its non-invasive nature. In certain cases, a non-destructive technique is mandatory, ruling out many other analytical methods. GPR ensures that no physical contact with a concrete slab is made, making it the perfect means of analyzing the structure.
Compact Size
The size of GPR equipment is another benefit that it boasts. In the case of certain drilling projects, tight spaces can be an issue, ruling out other analytical methods. Not so in the case of GPR. Due to its compact size, GPR equipment can be used in confined spaces. Furthermore, it can be utilized in spite of the orientation of ceilings, walls, and floors.
Enhances Scanning Processing
A GPR system includes multiple tools that render the scanning process more effective. The equipment can be utilized for identifying sections before drilling is performed, and can aid in the assessment of rebar that was damaged, preparing reports related to due diligence, and other related tasks.
Greater Safety
A huge benefit of using GPR as opposed to the other predominant scanning method, x-ray scanning, is that GPR does not endanger people or objects in its vicinity. Unlike x-ray scanning, GPR does not utilize radiation, posing any risks of exposure to personnel. Furthermore, because GPR does not use radiation, personal protective equipment is not required. This reduces costs in that area. Finally, unlike x-ray scanning, GPR does not require a clearance area of more than a hundred feet, or the scanning of concrete structures outside of business hours, owing again to the lack of radiation involved.
Advanced-Data Processing Characteristics
Finally, GPR systems benefit from advanced data processing characteristics, allowing for the automation of many tasks. Usage records, locations where equipment was employed, and the time and task for which scanning equipment was used can also be analyzed.
As we can see, using GPR, or ground-penetrating radar, is extremely important before drilling into concrete structures. Due to its host of benefits, it is the ideal means of identifying objects embedded in concrete.