From settlement to sinkholes, voids can cause a major problem on any site. Not only could theyaffect your design, budget and programme, but they could result in major injury.
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Whether siting a crane, erecting scaffolding, or simply working on a site, if voids are present, it’s essential that you know about them before starting work or bringing any heavy equipment onto site.
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Air voids can be associated with a whole array of features; from natural causes, such as sink holes and sea water ingress, to leaking pipes, below ground structural voids such as burials and basements, and voids in walls caused by chimneys flues and structural delamination.
The Answer – A GPR Survey (but it all depends on the size and scale of the voids)
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is an ideal technique to locate voids. The large electrical contrast between solid materials and air generates a high amplitude response, which should stand out clearly against the background reflections. Voids create a characteristic strong response with an area of ringing to help us identify voids before the manifest themselves at the surface.
Above : GPR Radargrams (sectionn views) showing voids at 1m depth caused by water ingress along a stretch of promenade.
High Frequency GPR
SUMO Services have a range of GPR antennae to help find voids in a variety of conditions. Our high frequency antennas (1.2GHz – 2GHz) allows the signal to penetrate to 50cm to locate small voids caused by structural delamination and chimney flues.
Above : Interpretation of GPR data showing location of chimney flues on a wall
Dual Frequency GPR
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Our Dual Frequency GPR system is ideal for carriageways, hardstanding or even burial grounds. By providing both 300 and 800MHz antennas it allows a high resolution, shallow survey (c.1m) at the same time as a deeper, lower resolution survey (c.2.5m) to help locate a wide range of voids within many different environments.
Above : Dual Frequency GPR Survey and Timeslice plot (plan view) showing two areas of voiding highlighted in orange.
Single Frequency GPR
Finally, SUMO have access to a range of single frequency antennas for specialist applications. We have utilised these antennae in a range of applications from flood defences, harbour walls and water reservoir slipways.
Above : Antennas in all shapes and sizes - 1500MHz antenna, 400MHz antenna and 200MHz antenna.
With a wide range of GPR equipment and a vast wealth of experience SUMO are here to help you avoid any hidden dangers. If you have any questions.
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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
