If you want to know where wires are buried underneath the ground, or even pipework, you can do so through utility mapping. Civil engineers will use this process which can help them completely different types of work and avoid delays which can be caused by damaging these materials. Project planners will also know exactly where to go and what work can be done based upon the information that is provided.
However, when you do utility mapping, you may run into a few challenges. First of all, surveyors are going to have trouble mapping certain areas, especially when trying to find hidden objects that are difficult to see.
Technologies Making Maps
Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) is one of the best systems for obtaining underground infrastructure information as it will map and locate whatever is underneath the ground. Using geophysical technology, combined with historical records, you can be as accurate as possible.
Although there are many different technologies that you may use, the most common are:
Electromagnetic Induction (EMI)
It is possible to use Ground Penetrating Radar for this type of work, but EMI is going to utilize electrical currents from a transmitter to induce a magnetic field. When this is positioned at the proper frequency, magnetic variances can be detected, which will clearly show subsurface utilities. EMI is also much useful in certain environments, especially when GPR equipment will not be as helpful when there is a lot of moisture in the soil or metal objects over the surface.
Ground Penetrating Radar
This is always going to be one of the top tools making maps. Using directional waves made from electromagnetic frequencies, at frequencies measured in MHz and GHz, you can quickly see where subsurface utility structures are present. Precision Utility Mapping Limerick is experienced in GPR technology.
Benefits of Using GPR technology
The main reason that this technology is so popular is because it is highly accurate for finding nonmetallic and metallic items. This is what most surveyors are going to use when doing mapping service because it will offer:
- A lower operating cost
- Fast acquisition of data
- High imagery resolutions
However, you may also notice that oblique measurements and soil moisture can pose problems. GPR technology, along with radio detection technology, will give you the best and most accurate utility mapping survey results.