UNDERGROUND UTILITY DETECTION

Metallic utilities, which are conductive, can be traced using a Pipe and Cable Locator (PCL). This tool detects the electromagnetic fields around metallic lines, allowing for accurate mapping. Common examples include:

• Electric power cables (copper)

• Telecommunication lines (copper)

• Metallic gas and fuel pipes

• Iron water mains

• Metallic sewer pipelines

• Copper signal and control cables

• Coaxial TV and internet cables

Non-metallic utilities, such as plastic or concrete pipes, do not conduct electricity and cannot be located using PCL alone. In these cases, we use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). GPR emits radar waves into the ground and interprets the signals that bounce back, making it effective for locating a broader range of materials.

GPR can detect:

• All utilities found by PCL

• Fiber optic cables (non-conductive)

• Gas and water pipes made of PVC, HDPE, or asbestos cement

• Sewer pipes made of clay (VCP) or concrete

• Concrete culverts, storm drains, and duct banks

• Plastic cable conduits

It's important to note that GPR results vary based on soil conditions. In sandy or dry soils, GPR tends to be more accurate, while performance may decline in wet or clay-rich areas.