GPR, or ground-penetrating radar, uses radio waves to capture images of embedded objects. It is a non-intrusive detection method that allows technicians to locate underground utilities and other objects such as live wires, post-tension cables, utilities, conduits, pipes, and voids. By identifying such objects before excavating, one can avoid potential damage and the associated safety risks and cost burdens. The all-important question is, is GPR effective? In short, yes, it is highly effective. Let’s explore how GPR can profoundly benefit your project.
Prevents Damage
Firstly, GPR 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 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.
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 valuable 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 no 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.
Conclusion
As outlined above, GPR is a highly effective means of identifying embedded objects or voids. To ensure that your next project proceeds in a safe, efficient, and cost-effective manner, contact us today!