Two for the Win with Reliable Target Detection

Customer’s task

A company managing a large industrial site wants to install a new structure as part of its expanding operations. Due to the extensive earthworks required for the new installation, they are required to conduct a site investigation to detect and map existing buried assets to ensure their protection, and where necessary, appropriate relocation.

The client sought help from GPR to determine the location and depth of utility lines within the area of proposed works. As an industrial site, there is a multitude of buried utility lines, both large and small diameter, constructed of various materials (metallic and non-metallic), and installed at varying depths. The terrain was mostly flat, consisting of concrete standing areas, tarmac finished roads or a combination of the two. However, some areas were easily accessible, while others proved more challenging with limited space.

ImpulseRadar’s solution

ImpulseRadar’s application specialist chose CrossOver CO4080 as the system of choice, altering from the primary push-cart configuration to a pulling format as determined by the different areas on-site.

Underground penetrating radar for infrastructure

A significant challenge for this site was the underlying geology, consisting of a clay-rich soil with high-moisture content, and high-water table due to the proximity of a large river.

Thanks to the size, weight, and ergonomics of the CO4080 and its various accessories, it was easy to deploy on-site, and the operator collected measurements with ease.

However, it is the dual-channel feature of the CO4080 that stands out in this scenario, providing excellent examples to support the use of the CrossOver dual-channel design – two real antennas within the same GPR system.


The data example illustrates reflections from utility targets, constructed layers and geological features. However, the lower image labelled 400 MHz clearly shows a response from a deeper target (A) not visible in the upper 800 MHz image. Conversely, the 800 MHz image makes it much easier to decern individual targets (B & C), as well as more precise detail of the near-surface constructed layers.

Results

The ability to see the full available depth range, whilst maintaining resolution in the near-surface offers maximum data clarity and quality. For this client, it meant better visualization of the data under challenging conditions for more accurate detection of critical points of interest.

The dual-channel configuration offers both low and high-frequency bands in one package, making it possible to cover a broad range of applications with only one instrument. The unique range of CrossOver dual-channel solutions reduces the need for investments in multiple single-channel antennas to achieve the same objectives.

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Not sure whether GPR is the right tool for you? Contact us and we’d be happy to discuss your problem and recommend a suitable ImpulseRadar GPR solution.