Reasons To Use GPR For Concrete Inspection
Concrete inspection may be necessary for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, concrete inspection aids in the identification of any structural issues, which are hidden from the naked eye, buried deep within concrete slabs or pillars. It also helps with the identification of important or dangerous utilities buried deep within the concrete.
Generally Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is used in scanning and creating an image of subsurface objects, voids and defects. The information obtained from the inspection can then be used to accurately and efficiently plan any concrete cutting and coring projects.
Even though there many other methods that can be used for concrete inspection, GPR has, in recent years, become the most popular method thanks to its many advantages. Here’s a short list of some of the main advantages of using GPR for concrete inspection.
Table of Contents
Non-invasive
One of the main advantages of GPR for concrete scanning is that it is non-invasive. This means that to get a clear, subsurface image or scan of the concrete surface in question, no digging or excavation work is required. You only need to scan over the surface of the concrete and that’s it.
Accurate
Ground Penetrating Radar is considered to be one of the most accurate, if not the most accurate, method used for concrete inspection. For starters, GPR captures the orientation and depth of different objects buried within the concrete; making the imaging and analysis of slices at varying depths possible.
To improve the accuracy and reliability of the scans obtained, GPR technology can be combined with other technologies, including those used in the detection of high voltage electrical cables.
Time Saving
As previously stated, using GPR for concrete inspection eliminates the need for unnecessary digging and excavation work. This helps eliminate time wastage, leading to faster project completion times. For large concrete inspection projects, the concrete scanning equipment can be towed using a vehicle or carried on a cart for faster completion.
With time savings also comes money savings. Regardless of the nature of the project at hand, faster project completion usually translates into reduced overall project costs.
Easy And Straightforward Operation
As it stands, GPR systems are quite easy to use given the level of automation they have gone through since their introduction. A major part of the scanning process is now automated thanks to improved data processing; and the improved user interface has increased the ease of use. The latest systems are even capable of producing automated reports.
Unlike x-ray systems of the past which required highly trained operators, GPR operators do not need to undergo any certification.
Flexible Use
GPR systems are designed to be highly flexible during use. Sensors can be deployed in just about any space, even hard to reach areas like basements and ceilings, due to their compact nature. This means that scanning tight spaces is no longer a nightmare.
As you can clearly see from the above, choosing to use GPR for concrete inspections comes with a variety of important advantages that can help you save time and costs, giving you a competitive edge at the end of it all.