What Role Does Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Play in Concrete Coring & Cutting Projects?

SalesRep-Admin • June 22, 2023

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Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) plays a critical role in the concrete cutting and coring process. Learn about this technology and how it is used to keep costs down, keep a project on schedule, and maintain a safe work site.

What is Ground Penetrating Radar?

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) detects items below the surface before digging or demolition. It can also be used to plot the specific location of items under soil or within concrete. 

GPR works by sending energy pulses into the ground and measuring the time it takes for the signal to hit an object and return to the radar. A series of measurements over an area can accurately map items below the surface.

GPR is often used to map items made of the following materials:

  • Metal
  • Plastic
  • PVC
  • Concrete
  • Natural materials

GPR is an essential technology for the concrete cutting industry. Concrete cutting companies use GPR to detect underground utility lines, pipes, rock obstructions, air pockets, voids, and groundwater tables. It allows technicians to mark the locations of rebar, conduits, and cables that may be embedded or buried in the structure. 

There are many benefits to having this information.

GPR Helps Keep Costs Down

Surprises aren’t good when you are cutting into concrete. Hitting unexpected materials can (at a minimum) delay a project or (worse) cause significant safety issues. A concrete cutting company that checks the cutting surface knows this is a great way to keep costs down for their customers.

GPR Helps Keep a Project on Schedule

Using GPR prevents project delays and wasted time. 

Even with access to the as-built drawings, GPR data does not always match what is on the plans. After using GPR, a concrete cutter knows where the structure’s vital components are buried.

There’s no guesswork when using GPR. Using this technology helps keep a project on schedule. 

GPR Helps Keep a Worksite Safer

Using GPR makes everyone on the worksite safer – not only the crews using the cutting equipment. And a commitment to safety is crucial when working on a complex building or renovation project. 

KC Coring and Cutting Has Served the KC Area for Decades

One of the reasons for our success is that we believe an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We map our worksites with GPR before cutting or drilling because doing so will keep your worksite safe, help you maintain your schedule, and cut costs.

But don’t take our word for it. Check out our customer reviews and ask anyone in the KC construction industry. We have built a solid reputation for offering dependable, safe, quality service, which is why we have been hired for some of the largest public works projects in Kansas City’s history – including the KC Streetcar expansion project.

Are you ready to start a project and need the help of a concrete cutting company? We do large and small jobs – give us a call to schedule a consultation.

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