Ground Penetrating Radar
What is Ground Penetrating Radar?
Ground Penetrating Radar Scanning, otherwise referred to as GPR scanning, is a geophysical locating method. GPR is a scanning device used to locate rebar, electric lines, plumbing, or any other object that may be hidden within concrete, brick, cinderblock, or other hard masonry building materials. GPR scanning can locate objects up to a depth of 36” and provides an accurate location of the object.
GPR scanning is done before drilling or cutting has begun, which can help prevent cutting live electrical wire, rebar, natural gas service, and plumbing pipes. This service provides a relatively quick assessment of what is with in your concrete slab or wall and can prevent delays in projects that can occur as a result of cutting into something.
The Difference Between X-Ray and Ground Penetrating Radar
A commercial x-ray is commonly used for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) for defects and irregularities that are a threat to structural integrity. Although x-rays provide high-resolution images of circuit boards, concrete structures, and metal parts, the innovation of GPR made it a more desirable tool to utilize.
- Safe and Non-Hazardous – Unlike x-rays where the wearing of PPE and a 100-foot clearance is required for the location scan, GPR does not pose harm from radioactive elements present in x-rays. GPR scans are conveniently done during business hours with minimal interruptions.
- Real-time Imaging – Results of an x-ray scan need off-site processing and development. For GPR, real-time inspection is done while the scan is ongoing. Making post-GPR activities such as core drilling and saw cutting done earlier.
- GPR Advantages – For x-ray imaging to work, it needs both sides of concrete slabs to scan. This makes x-ray not suitable for on-grade slabs. On the other hand, GPR can be utilized for on-grade slabs and can detect underground targets. What’s more, the scan depth of GPR is better than an x-ray.
Bedrock Concrete Cutting is always here to provide you with low-cost Ground Penetrating Radar services, maintaining the highest of industry standards that you deserve in the process.
For any commercial area concrete projects, Bedrock Concrete Cutting is one call away from helping you with cutting, sawing, or drilling needs. Message us if you have any questions or call us for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does GPR locate?
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) can locate rebar, post-tension (PT) cable, conduit, plumbing, gas lines, and other embedments in concrete, brick, and block. We want to do this before cutting or drilling for safety, but also to prevent damage that can cause project delays.
Do you offer reports?
Yes, we can offer reports. We most often deliver real-time results, marked directly on the slab or wall.
How deep can GPR scan?
Generally we state that we can reliably read up to 12 inches. Often it can be as much as 18". If we are looking for utilities below a slab we can "see" as deep as 36", depending on material and conditions. Many factors impact the depth reading — one of the primary factors is how much steel is in the concrete.
Why scan before cutting?
Three primary reasons: safety, preventing project delays, and preventing project cost increases. Striking energized conduit, PT cable, rebar, gas, or plumbing means injuries, repair cost, and schedule loss. A scan is cheap insurance.
GPR vs. X-ray?
GPR: no radiation, no clearance zone, works during business hours, single-side access (works on slab-on-grade), real-time results. X-ray needs two-sided access.