A Chicago contractor needed to locate any conduits inside the concrete slab at one of their project sites in a downtown warehouse. They wanted to cut into the concrete so they could set up an electrical line that could be used to feed power for a new machine. They wanted to do this without cutting into the conduits shutting down power to a nearby machine, or injuring a worker. The contractor hired Ground Penetrating Radar Systems (GPRS) to come in and scan for any potential conduits and any other anomalies in the floor. The scope of the project consisted of scanning a 10’x10’ square foot area.

Using the SIR-3000 we were able to locate and draw out the path of the potential conduits within the scan area, as well as give an approximate depth to them. The potential conduits were clearly marked out with red paint to highlight its location and depth. All of our project managers are OSHA certified and come to every project site with the correct PPE. Thanks to our service the contractor was able to saw cut into the concrete without hitting any of the conduits.

Our state of the art GSSI GPR equipment can send radio signals into concrete that send data back in real time. The radio waves are safe for workplaces so there is no need for stoppage in work for floors below or around scan areas. The specific equipment that was utilized for this job was the GSSI 1600 MHz GPR Antenna. Using the antenna, we are able to scan concrete up to 14” thick, and see anomalies that larger antennas would miss. GPRS also uses the RD-8100 Locator to locate live power and radio frequency (RF) signals underground. We can also detect utilities in or under concrete via induction or conduction with an exposed or known surface utility line.

GPRS technicians are commonly called for scanning for reinforcement such as rebar, mesh, and post tension cables. We also scan for conduits and radiant heat tubes as well.

At GPRS safety is our #1 priority. When saw cutting or drilling, the last thing you or our technicians want is to hit a surprise conduit in the slab. While you may think that there is nothing in the slab, there are an unfortunate number of clients that call because they were proven wrong. The price of one of our technicians is well worth the price compared to the costs of repairing a mishap later on.

If you have any questions about GPRS applications or would have a need for GPR, feel free to contact Parker Schings on his cell: (224)422-7284 or through email: parker.schings@gprsinc.com If you are outside the Chicago area, GPRS is nationwide so please visit the contact page to find your closest local Project Manager.

GPRS does not provide geophysical, geological, land surveying or engineering services. If you need such services, please contact an appropriate professional.