Geology Rocks, but it still has its faults!
Prior to starting a construction and infrastructure project, it can be worthwhile characterising the site’s subsurface as part of a wider geotechnical investigation, to avoid any unexpected problems and associated costs.
This can include anything from the depth of drift cover to bedrock to the extent of sinkhole formation. As a first step, a non-invasive survey can therefore provide invaluable information, prior to intrusive (and expensive) site investigation works involving boreholes and sampling.
SUMO’s engineering geophysics team utilise a combination of the latest survey techniques, including Ground Conductivity, Magnetic Survey, Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to understand more about the natural features below the ground, including:
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Alluvial channels/paleochannels
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Bedrock depth
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Large discontinuities i.e. faults, major joints/fractures
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Mineralised veins
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Mineshafts (in mineralised areas)
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Sinkholes/solution features
Ground Conductivity
Ground conductivity surveys are well suited to some of these applications, notability sinkholes/solution features. The example below shows a solution feature in weathered chalk on the site of a former quarry. The feature has been filled from the ground above, causing the ground to collapse.
Above : Photograph of a solution feature in weathered chalk.
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The Ground Conductivity data collected on site, which is shown as a plan view below, identified a further three anomalies potentially associated with solution features C4, C5 and C6 shown below.
Above : Ground Conductivity data showing potential sinkholes - C4, C5 and C6. Anomaly C1 is likely to be related to a buried metal pipeline. The cluster of three very strong discrete anomalies C2 are associated with the rusting remnants of a scrap car abandoned on the site. C3 is a high value negative conductivity anomaly that is also likely to be associated with a buried metal feature.
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Magnetic Survey
Magnetic Surveys, which are quick and cost effective, are a useful tool for geological applications.
Above : Magnetic Survey data collection. Above Right : Magnetic Survey data showing the underlying dykes and sills of the bedrock geology on a site in Cornwall. This provided a greater understanding of the complex geology of the site.
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Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)
This technique is suited to locating larger features at depth and can penetrate to depths of 20 - 30m.
Above : A Resistivity Imaging section view showing near surface geological faults/fissures penetrating to approximately 9m depth (low resistance in blue) and bedrock (High resistance – brown and red areas) at depths between 2m and 20m.
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Ground Penetratng Radar (GPR)
GPR has the capacity to work through a wide variety of surface materials, from soft landscaping, to hard surfaces such as tarmac and concrete. Ground Penetrating Radar is particularly adept at not only mapping buried features but approximating their depth, which provides an all-important extra level of detail.
Above : A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey in progress using a dual frequency system consisting of 300MHz and 800MHz antennas.
Above : A GPR Section view showing areas of granite at approximately 2m depth.
With a range of methodologies and techniques penetrating to depths of 30m+, SUMO has a solution to help you understand more about your site’s geology without the need for intrusive investigations.
So, why not contact SUMO, before starting your next construction or infrastructure project and make sure that you take the subsurface features of your site into account at the design stage, and thereby avoid any costly surprises?
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Topographical and Geophysical surveyIn 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Geophysical Engineering Surveys
Air Raid Shelters
Cellars & Basements
Post Tension Cables
Underground Storage Tanks
Air Voids
Chimney Flues
Rebar
Water Engineering
Badger Setts
Earthing Installations
Sinkholes
Burials
Geological Application
Soil Thermal Resistivity Testing
Buried Foundations
Landfills
Structural Investigations
Buried Manholes
Mineshafts
