The main purposes of GPR surveys in the UK

25.02.2022, 14:28

Articles

If you want to know about the industries in which GPR is used, the advantages of using GPR technology, and how GPR surveys work, continue reading below.

GPR surveys are conducted by operating a GPR radar transmitter and antenna. The transmitter will send radio waves underground, while the antenna will receive the waves that bounce back. The radio waves will travel underground until they collide with an object, from which the wave will reflect back into the antenna. These results will be interpreted by GPR surveyors using specialised GPR software that will map the results into visual images.

GPR surveys like GPR utility survey is best at detecting concrete, PVC, plastic, metal, and similar materials, making them perfect for mapping utility structures like pipes and other man-made systems. With that said, some surveys are also suitable for mapping natural objects like air pockets, large rock formations, differences in soil properties, bedrock, among other things.

Since GPR surveys are a non-destructive technology (NDT), they are safe to use even in the middle of public spaces. There is no excavation required, and the ground will be left completely alone. A GPR survey can quickly gather data, and the result analysis could come just as fast depending on the GPR service provider that you chose to work with. The frequency of the radio waves sent underground can be regulated and changed, allowing each pulse to detect different properties. It is not uncommon for a GPR survey to consist of multiple radio wave pulses, with every type of pulse modified to detect different things, like metal structures, rocks, air pockets, soil differences, etc. The data gathered from every pulse will be compiled in a single report that combines every finding to present an accurate mapping or impression of the underground, along with other important information.

KB Surveys provide our clients with an accurate impression without causing any damage to the scanned surface whatsoever. We use efficient GPR survey methods to get results fast without sacrificing reliability. Our services can be used for a wide range of situations, like archaeological GPR, utility mapping, heating pipes mapping, obstructions mapping, and more.

1. Determining the properties of the soil
As stated above, GPR can detect differences in soil properties. During a GPR survey, many radio waves are emitted towards the ground. Some of these signals will be reflected back, while some will travel without colliding with anything until they finally dissipate.

By noting the differences in radio wave reaction and dissipation, GPR surveyors can determine the properties of the soil. For example, a pulse that travels from wet sand to dry sand will experience a high reflection rate, while dry sand to limestone transition will produce a weak reflection. These changes in soil properties can be determined by a GPR survey, although its accuracy level depends on the properties of the soil.

2. Determining the amount of underground water

The radio waves emitted by a GPR survey are also sensitive to dielectric permittivity. Dielectric permittivity is greatly affected by the quantity of underground water. This makes a GPR survey a highly effective method of determining the amount of underground water below a surface.

3. Locating underground obstructions

Aside from underground utilities and water levels, GPR is also useful for detecting hard objects and other notable obstructions underground. This is very useful for construction sites to clear them of any objects that may hinder the construction once it starts. By conducting a GPR survey, those objects can be taken out before any type of major work commences, paving the way for a smooth construction.

Are you in need of a GPR survey near me in the UK? Your search ends here at KB Surveys, the leading GPR survey company in the UK. We provide affordable yet accurate GPR surveys using the latest, non-destructive equipment operated by experienced surveyors.

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You can call us today on 020 3931 5759 or send us an email at info@kbsurveys.co.uk if you require GPR survey.

We are always happy to discuss your project requirements.

GPR data refers to the data generated by GPR. This data is obtained by using electromagnetic waves to detect the presence of materials in sub-surfaces. This data can be used to provide detailed insights into the structures and physical composition of soil strata close to the surface, as well as the presence of man-made objects.

GPR can detect metal and non-metal objects, underground pipework, and voids. This advanced technology can also be used to trace plastic, PVC, natural materials, and concrete.

The presence of air pockets, rock obstructions, mine shafts, and groundwater can also be identified using GPR. With GPR, a surveyor can gain insights into a target’s dimensions, depth, and thickness.

A GPR survey in the UK is highly accurate and efficient, surpassing all other forms of non-destructive testing available today. Only an experienced surveyor like KB Surveys can do the necessary preparations to maximise the accuracy of the results and interpret them correctly.

Ground Penetrating Radar results are incredibly detailed. A GPR inspection in the UK can be used to identify the precise locations and positions of objects, as well as features such as defects, cavities, and so on. Moreover, GPR can be used to identify the types of materials underneath a surface. In particular, GPR concrete scanning in the UK can be used to detect rebar locations in walls.

Its applications are not limited to walls– GPR can be used on concrete columns and floors in order to locate reinforcing steel or embedded conduits.

Ground Penetrating Radars, when used in geological surveys, can be used to identify features such as bedrock. Not only that, but stratigraphic layers and water tables can be detected using GPR as well.

GPR surveys offer a wide range of benefits, so you can rest assured that the ground-penetrating radar survey cost in the UK would be well worth it.

For one, they are key to analysing an area’s site conditions. The results they provide serve as warnings for potential ground damage in the event of future storms. Using this innovative tech, operators can gain real-time data when detecting ground anomalies, as well as water leaks and other structural details.

UK-wide GPR evaluations produce reliable results for British and multinational construction companies. They can also determine the thickness of asphalt overlay, the depth and thickness of concrete, and many more.

Due to GPR’s versatility, it can even make construction and excavation projects safer and more efficient.

Conditions of underground surfaces can be evaluated by a GPR. Through high-frequency radio waves, this non-destructive tool assesses sub surfaces and generates immediate, high-resolution reports.

A GPR’s transmitter emits electromagnetic radiation into a surface, and any waves that get reflected back are received by its antenna. These waves are capable of penetrating through a variety of conductive materials, as well as soil debris, water, and concrete.

Its radargram then displays the data, which includes the location and depth of materials. This data can only be interpreted by a skilled GPR operator.

Compared to other geophysical assessments, GPR surveys are faster, more detailed, and lead to accurate conclusions. This technology helps preserve cultural heritage by detecting ancient burial locations without disturbing them. In the industrial field, only a GPR survey can identify voids and materials that may affect construction projects.

Since GPR can monitor hazardous underground processes, it can be used to ensure the safety of roads, buildings, parks, and other structures. By detecting the possibility of landslides, soil erosions, and other destructive accidents, GPR can provide warnings to help mitigate injuries and deaths. Similarly, it is essential for rescue operations and criminal investigations as it can detect hidden evidence.

Likewise, our experts conduct in-depth mapping to detect sinkholes and voids. Such services prevent the construction of weak foundations, which may lead to severe accidents. Our expertise in detecting bedrock, water table, and ground stratifications prevent the need for costly drilling and excavations in every project.

Our proficiency in inspecting concrete deteriorations allows us to evaluate the robustness of bridges, buildings, and other structures as well. We can even measure the overall quality of a structure with the use of GPR.

If you are looking for a company that provides high-quality GPR surveys at competitive rates, check out our services at KB Surveys.