An Insight into Ground Penetration Radar Technology

1. An Insight into Ground Penetration Radar Technology Infrastructure inspection companies make use of different technologies in order to determine the state of an existing structure. It is important to know the deterioration and structural health of our valuable infrastructure assets for many reasons. One of the reasons is safety. One of the technologies which is used by NDT (Non-destructive Testing) companies for the purpose of object location which is in the sub surface is Ground penetrating radar or GPR. Understanding the basics about GPR: This is a technology which makes use of high frequency radio signals. These signals are passed on into the ground. The reflected signals are received by the receiver. The time that is taken by the signal to travel to the target object and to return back is measured. This gives an idea about the depth and the location of the target object. This is the basic concept of Ground penetrating radar. The depth up to which GPR can go: One question that surely crosses everyone’s mind is how deep a GPR can go. The GPR mainly consists of 3 parts that is the control unit, the antenna and the power supply. The depth up to which the GPR can penetrate will depend on the frequency of the antenna. It will also depend on the material of the subsurface. For locating target material in concrete etc one will have to make use of Ground penetrating radar service which has a higher resolution. Applications of GPR service: Some of the areas where GPR services are used include: It is used in earth sciences for the purpose of studying the ground or ice or groundwater etc. Ground penetrating radar service is very useful in engineering applications. It is used in NDT testing of structures where NDT stands for non destructive testing. It is also useful in the location of buried structures. GPR is also useful in archaeology where it can be used to find buried evidence and for mapping purpose. It can also be used for military purpose like to detect mines, to find tunnels etc. It is also useful in detecting underground non conductive materials with ease. GPR can be used to assess concrete. Locate delamination, deterioration, rebar placement and cover thickness.

2. Are there any limitations? There are a few limitations of GPR technology: Sometimes the energy consumption can be on the higher side. This can make things difficult for carrying out widespread field surveys. In rocky soil and any other such surface signal scattering can affect the performance. The type of soil will also have an impact on the antenna penetration For the correct interpretation one will have to prove expertise to read the signals and the data correctly. Opt for services from experts: GPR service is one of the best technologies which has widespread uses. It is important that you hire inspection experts who have proven expertise for the same. The results of GPR can be maximized with the most experienced operators. IPC, Infrastructure Preservation Corporation is a “Non Destructive Testing Companies”non- destructive robotic engineering company that is an expert in ground penetrating radar. Conducting inspections worldwide from bridge deck inspections to locating underground pipes, pt tendons, utilities and more. For construction contractors it is better to know whats underground or imbedded in concrete before you dig. For more information go to www.infrastructurepc.com or email info@infrastructurepc.com.