GPR scanning & mapping
We locate underground pipes & cables with radar, map them with sub-centimetre GPS, & deliver PDF & DWG drawings you can use.
How GPR scanning & mapping works
Ground penetrating radar is a geophysical method that uses radar pulses to image the subsurface. It sends electromagnetic pulses in the microwave band of the radio spectrum into the ground & detects the signals reflected from the surfaces below.
Once the services have been located, their positions, depths & if the type of services could be identified are marked on the ground, then plotted & drawn up as a DWG & PDF drawing with sub-centimetre accuracy using a specialised GPS system.
- Method
- Non-destructive radar scan
- Marked
- Positions, depths & types of services where possible on the ground
- Positioning
- Specialised GPS, sub-centimetre accuracy
- Delivered as
- PDF & DWG drawings
GPR & electromagnetic locating in one pass
GPR can only detect a difference in density in the soil below, not what the service is. This can be a problem when locating live electrical cables, because some cables are too small in diameter to show clearly.
Conventionally, equipment using the electromagnetic principle is brought in after the first scan to solve this. We have invested in state-of-the-art equipment that lets us do both at once.
- Detects
- Underground metallic pipes, cables & conductive material
- Helps with
- Thin live electrical cables usually undetectable by GPR
- Visits needed
- One
Maps that fit the job
Our mapping can be as simple as a record of services for a residential complex presented as a PDF.
It can also be as detailed as a DWG drawing with sub-centimetre accuracy, including contour lines, for engineering purposes.
- Simple
- Record of services as PDF
- Detailed
- Sub-centimetre DWG with contour lines
- File formats
- CAD (DWG) & PDF
When a survey helps
- Before excavation starts, to confirm the depth & location of all underground services.
- Before upgrades or new work on a site, such as around water back-up tanks.
- Before leak detection, to find potable water services.
These are the kinds of jobs we have done for clients such as Rand Water, Netcare & Vodacom. See recent work.
Questions about GPR scanning & mapping
Does a GPR survey damage the ground?
No. GPR is non-destructive, so nothing is dug up.
What do I receive after the survey?
The location & depth of the services are marked on the ground, & mapped for you as a PDF record or a DWG drawing.
What is a DWG drawing?
DWG is the file format used by CAD software. Engineers & designers can open it & work directly from your survey. We also supply a PDF.
Can GPR identify what each service is?
Not by itself, because it only sees changes in soil density. We scan with GPR & electromagnetic locating together to help identify live electrical cables.
How accurate are the maps?
Services are located with GPR & plotted using a specialised GPS system with sub-centimetre accuracy.
How do I get a quote?
Send the quote form or call us on 074 539 5123. Tell us where the site is & what you need located.
Need underground services located & mapped?
Tell us about your site & we’ll come back to you with a quote.