Ground Penetrating Radar
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is used for locating non-conductive services such as Concrete, Nylon or Polyurethane pipes and is a non-destructive method. It works by pulsing electromagnetic energy into the subsurface of the soil, concrete or rock. The GPR then receives the electromagnetic signals reflected back into the transmitter from bouncing off the materials and services below the ground to identify their approximate location and depths.

Penetration
What is Ground Penetrating Radar used for?
- Concrete/Plastic Storm Water Pipes
- Nylon Gas Pipes
- Vitrified Clay/Earthenware Sewer Pipes
- Poly/PVC Water Pipes
- Fibre Optic Cables
- Plastic Irrigation Pipes
- Other Non Conductive Pipes
- Buried Pit Lids or Shafts
- Underground Infrastructure
- Fuel Tanks
- Unmarked Graves

Why is the Ground Penetrating Radar used?
The Ground Penetrating Radar is used in circumstances where a pipe is made of a non conductive material, therefore a signal cannot be injected through pipe and results collected from above the ground. This is generally used after all other utilities beneath the ground, that are conductive have been located using the Electromagnetic Method.


How deep can Ground Penetrating Radar actually penetrate?
This can all depend on a few factors, but generally 1m – 2.5m, depending on the soil type. If you are searching in a sandy area, great, although if you are looking for underground utilities through a more dense soil such was clay you may find it quite difficult to get results. High levels/saturation of water below the grounds surface can also create signal loss.
What Australian Standard Quality Level does Ground Penetrating Radar fall under?
Locating with a Ground Penetrating Radar falls under the Australian Standards Quality Level (Class C) or QL-(C). It is always recommended by our technicians to have this potholed and visually inspected and by doing so you will achieve the top Quality Level QL-(A).


key benefits of using Ground Penetrating Radar
- Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is non-destructive. When using a GRP, radar waves avoid damaging any surrounding structures and utilities. Underground pipes and cables on your site can be identified, located, and mapped in a careful and professional manner.
- Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is cost-effective and an efficient option. A GPR survey is usually completed with zero to very minimal site downtime and with no structural damage. This also means a ground penetrating radar (GPR) is no threat of injury to on-site workers. This is why most construction companies seek GPR as the ideal solution for identifying underground utilities across Sydney.
- Sydney CBD
- Parramatta
- Campbelltown
- Penrith
- Camden
- Western Sydney
- Wollongong & Surrounds
- Southern Highlands
- Northern Beaches
- North Coast NSW
- South Coast NSW
- Country NSW
- Canberra ACT