GEOPHYSICAL
ENGINEERING

Concrete and Structural Investigations

It certainly no CSI:Miami, but CSI:SUMO (Concrete & Structural Investigations) gives you all the ‘concrete evidence’ you need!

Utilising the latest non-invasive survey techniques, SUMO’s engineering geophysics team have a solution to help you understand more about your concrete assets.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), which is used predominantly in these investigations, can detect voids and delamination within the concrete, as well the thickness of the concrete slabs or walls themselves. Utilities within concrete can also be identified, along with steel elements such as beams, girders and metal plates. In addition, critical information which is required for structural assessments, such as post- tension cables and reinforced concrete bar (rebar), can also be easily mapped.

Condition of Concrete structures

SUMO can detect voids and delamination within the concrete. This allows for early detection of potential structural issues in a wide range of infrastructure.

The example below shows evidence of voids below the floor of a dry dock. The GPR survey detected a series of voids generally occurring at the interface between the granite setts forming the top layer of the dock floor and underlying mass concrete. The void anomalies correlated with the voids identified in a programme of coring that preceded the GPR survey.

Above : GPR Radargram showing voids beneath a dry dock floor at depths between 0.75m and 1m.

Concrete Reinforcement (rebar)

GPR can locate and map the position and orientation of steel reinforcement and post tension cables within concrete. This information is critical during structural assessments, repairs, or modifications of existing concrete structures.

Above : Rebar marked out on a concrete slab using a high frequency GPR.

Data is either recorded and/or interpreted on site, depending on your requirements, including budget and timescales, to produce 3 alternative survey outputs…

Mark out survey only.
Mark out survey with basic reporting.
Post processed survey with full reporting.

Concrete Slabs

GPR can measure the thickness of concrete slabs or walls accurately. This is useful in determining the structural integrity of the concrete and identifying potential areas of weakness or failure.

In the example below, the base of a concrete warehouse floor has been detected with GPR as a continuous, planar, horizontal high amplitude reflection. This occurred beneath the level of the rebar reflections in other scans. Post tension cables were identified in the data as discrete individual hyperbolic reflections of significantly wider diameter than rebar reflections, seen above the base of the floor. Further possible cables or structures were detected below the reflection from the base of the floor at 300mm depth.

Above : GPR radargram showing the base of a concrete floor at 280mm depth, along with 3 post tension cables above the slab at 190mm depth and possible cables/structures below the slab at 300mm depth.

Buried Utilities

SUMO’s high frequency GPR is able to accurately locate and map underground utilities buried in concrete. This helps in avoiding accidental damage to these utilities during construction or excavation activities.

Above : Section view of GPR data showing a utility/service within the concrete below the rebar at 0.5m depth.

Most sites take no more than a day to survey and immediate initial results may be presented on-site, with more detailed post-processed results, presented in AutoCAD, available shortly afterwards to suit your timescale.

How accurate is SUMO's underground utility survey and what types of utilities can it locate?

Using cutting-edge technologies like electro-magnetics, signal induced threading, and Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), our underground utility surveys accurately detect a wide array of buried utilities including metal and plastic pipes, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecoms, and fiber optic cables. The methodology ensures high accuracy without the need for invasive trial holes.
What is the turnaround time for obtaining results with SUMO's Underground Utility Detection service?

SUMO’s service is built for rapid response. Contractors can receive immediate results onsite. Our equipment provides real-time information, and once we leave the site, the detected utilities are visibly marked on the ground surface for quick reference.
Does SUMO provide detailed mapping of the detected utilities for permanent records or construction purposes?

Absolutely, SUMO not only marks the detected utilities on-site but also offers high-quality, color-coded survey drawings. These drawings can include topographic features and a comprehensive record of the utility detection survey, ensuring it meets the client’s needs for future reference or pre-construction design works.
Topographical and Geophysical survey

In addition to mapping out utilities, our experience team can accurately survey the land, creating topographical drawings for use. With our state-of-the-art aerial technology, nothing is missed.
What additional information can be included in the underground utility mapping service provided by SUMO?

In addition to topographic features, SUMO’s mapping service can include fixed surface utility features such as inspection chambers, valve boxes, and telegraph poles. It can also incorporate key topographic details like building lines, fence lines, kerb lines, street furniture, street names, building names, and house numbers, facilitating easy site location.
Does the utility mapping service by SUMO include standard referencing and compatibility with existing survey data?

Yes, SUMO ensures the utility mapping references the ordnance survey grid and level datum as standard. Additionally, the drawings can be supplied to a specified grid and level datum and can overlay an existing topographical survey, making it a versatile and adaptable service for various project needs.
What sets SUMO Services apart from other survey providers?

SUMO stands out due to our impeccable level of service with nationwide coverage, state-of-the-art equipment, and our commitment to delivering top-quality, detailed colour-coded survey drawings in both hard and electronic formats.
How do I request a survey quotation from SUMO Services?

Requesting a quotation is easy. Just click on the "Request a Survey Quotation" button on this page, and our team will get in touch with you promptly.
Can I book a SUMO Survey online?

Yes, you can! Simply click on the "Book a SUMO Survey" button on this page, and you can schedule your survey with us at your convenience.
What type of survey is suitable for my project or site?

Our experienced team will work with you to determine the most appropriate survey for your specific needs. Contact us, and we'll assist you in making the right choice.
Can I obtain both digital and hard copies of survey drawings?

Absolutely. We offer the convenience of electronic copies for digital use and hard copies for your records. Just let us know your preference.
Do you provide custom survey solutions for unique projects?

Yes, we understand that every project is unique. Our team is highly adaptable and can tailor our surveying services to meet your specific requirements.
How do I get in touch with SUMO Services for further questions?

For any additional questions or inquiries, feel free to contact us through the contact form, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly.