GPRS Utility Scanning & Locating Tools

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‍Utility Locating Equipment

ImpulseRadar PinPointR GPR Scanner

Features:

• Dual-channel operation (400 MHz low frequency and 800 MHz high frequency) allows for one-pass locates with full depth range.
• Wireless data acquisition simplifies set-up and in-field productivity.
• Internal GPS allows for data geo-referencing.

Limitations:

• High-conductivity soils like clay or salt-contaminated soil can impede accuracy.
• Data quality can be affected by interference from anything that emits the same frequency range, such as cell phone towers.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers use the ImpulseRadar PinPointR GPR Scanner to identify buried or hidden objects and locate underground utilities with 99.8% accuracy. The data collected is used to map the underground infrastructure of a site and can be applied for various purposes, such as construction and historical preservation. GPRS Project Managers are trained to use complimentary technologies such as electromagnetic (EM) locating in concert with the ImpulseRadar, ensuring thorough scanning and confident excavation.

‍Vivax vLoc3-Pro Electromagnetic (EM) Locator

Features:

• Range of configurable frequencies from 98Hz to 200 kHz.
• Highly configurable user settings for specific field needs.
• Immediate measurement of signal distortion.

Limitations:

• Non-metallic objects require an electromagnetic signal sent via rodder or sonde.
• If improperly operated, results can be misinterpreted.
• Outside interference can distort readings.
• Depth readings may be prone to inaccuracy.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS uses the Vivax EM locator to passively detect signals from live AC power or radio signals traveling along conductive utilities. It’s also used in conjunction with a transmitter to connect directly to accessible metallic pipes, risers, or tracer wires. GPRS Project Managers are SIM-certified to ensure the proper operation of the EM locator, with additional technologies like GPR used to verify findings, helping maintain 99.8% accuracy in utility locating.

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Jameson 300’ Traceable Rodder

Features:

• Easy to manipulate through various environments with a 4” bend radius.
• Expansive system investigation up to 300 ft., with a ¼” diameter traceable fiberglass rod.
• For use in conduit with an inside diameter between 1 and 2 inches.

Limitations:

• Requires access to the line being located.
• Maximum traceable depth is 10 ft., depending on soil conditions.
• May struggle with deeper pipes within manholes.
• Signal cannot be located through metallic pipes.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers run a rodder (a copper wire encased in fiberglass) through accessible pipes and place a current on the wire, enabling signal tracing from the surface with an EM locator. This tool is especially useful for locating non-metallic piping, such as PVC lines, and assists in precise utility mapping for as-built records.

Vivax Magnetometer

Features:

• Audio and visual signal strength indicator.
• Lightweight at 1.54 lbs (0.7 kg).
• Ultra-strong carbon fiber antenna tube.
• One-touch auto sensitivity control with manual incremental control.
• 60/50Hz power signal warning.

Limitations:

• Outside signal interference can affect results.
• Accuracy is limited to 10 ft. of depth.
• Smaller objects may present location challenges.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers use the magnetometer to detect the magnetic field of ferromagnetic objects. It responds to differences in the magnetic field between sensors and interprets these through frequency changes detected by the device's speaker. GPRS uses magnetometers alongside other technologies like GPR and EM locating to locate buried metallic objects such as valve lids, manhole covers, USTs, and survey nails.

GeNiuSS iQ Lite Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)

Features:

• Proprietary technology.
• Multiband: collects both L1 and L3 frequencies.
• Capable of survey-grade accuracy (less than one inch) with real-time kinematic (RTK) correction via internet.
• Water, weather, and environmental resistance.

Limitations:

• Requires relatively open sky for optimal results.
• Relies on internet connectivity and a local RTK service provider base station for RTK fix quality.

The GPRS Difference: The GeNiuSS iQ is proprietary technology that, when paired with a GNSS antenna, picks up satellite signals from GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and Bedou satellite systems. It uses Satellite-Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS) for sub-meter accuracy, helping GPRS Project Managers achieve precise utility mapping.

Concrete Scanning Radar Equipment

Proceq GP8800 Ground Penetrating Radar Scanner

Features:

• 400-6000 MHz modulated frequency range enables GPRS Project Managers to locate a wide range of subsurface objects with one pass.
• Wireless wheel allows scanning of hard-to-reach locations or uneven surfaces.
• Connected mobile app lets Project Managers annotate measurements and generate reports instantly.

Limitations:

• Does not penetrate metal.
• Smaller items, less than one inch (2.54 cm) in diameter, or buried deeper than 2 ft. below the surface may be challenging to locate.
• Anything that emits at the same frequency (e.g., cell phone towers) can cause interference and affect data quality.

The GPRS Difference: Our SIM-certified Project Managers use the Proceq GP8800 GPR Scanner to scan post-tension concrete for conduit, rebar, and other encased objects. They also understand the necessity of complementary technology, such as electromagnetic (EM) locating, to ensure precise marking. With 99.8% accuracy, GPRS guarantees that when an area is marked CLEAR, you can drill, cut, or core with full confidence.

Video Pipe Inspection Equipment

ROVVER X Mainline Crawler (Envirosight)

Features:

• Provides live video & screenshots of pipe defects in lines up to 1,000 ft. from access point.
• Can perform grade surveys (determining pipe pitch).
• With battery sonde, can locate up to 30-40 ft. in depth.

Limitations:

• Clean-outs cannot be used as access points.
• Typically cannot execute 90-degree turns inside the pipe.
• Some blockages/defects may hinder a complete inspection.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers are experts in utilizing cutting-edge sewer inspection technology. NASSCO-compliant inspection reports combine multiple investigation methods. In addition to CCTV cameras, EM utility locating is used to track the battery sonde located at the top of each crawler, accurately marking the surface to display the locations of each sewer and lateral line being inspected.

SAT/Lateral Launch Crawler (Envirosight)

Features:

• Inspects lateral sewer lines from the mainline for non-destructive investigation.
• Provides geolocated live feedback and screenshots of pipe defects, including cross bore locations for safe excavation and necessary repairs.
• Investigates sewer laterals and abandoned pipes with limited access points.
• Post-inspection/tap connections reduce downtime and increase report thoroughness.

Limitations:

• Deployment is limited to 6-24” pipe diameters only.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS VPI Project Managers use the SAT/Lateral Launch Crawler to crawl upstream in the mainline for easier lateral access. We provide a NASSCO-compliant report that includes all pipe defects, geolocated and ranked by severity, allowing you to plan maintenance and repairs on your schedule.

ROVVER X Main Line Small Diameter Crawler (Envirosight)

Features:

• Inspects branch lines, large laterals, and industrial piping to verify pipe materials, conditions, and defects.
• Can traverse diameters as small as relined 4” pipe and up to 1,640’ depending on reel.
• Can locate with on-board sonde to allow accurate surface markings.

Limitations:

• Works best in clean, straight pipes.
• 90-degree turns are difficult.
• Some blockages and defects may hinder deployment or inspection.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers use the ROVVER X Mainline Small Diameter Crawler to inspect branch lines, large laterals, and industrial piping. Our specialty is utilizing complementary technologies to ensure all lines are accurately located and marked on the surface. The crawler’s report includes pipe details, inspection length, and a gallery of every defect, available in PDF and cloud-based versions.

Pushrod Camera (Rigid SeeSnake)

Features:

• Can access pipes through cleanout, vent, or removed toilet.
• Typical reel sizes range from 250-300 linear feet.
• Built-in sonde can be located up to 12’ deep.

Limitations:

• Camera cannot pan or tilt – straight-ahead viewing only.
• Excessive turns/elbows in pipes may inhibit deployment.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers use pushrod cameras to access smaller lines, such as cleared grease traps and lateral lines. Pushrods complement other GPRS technology for creating NASSCO-certified VPI reports. These interactive reports include live video, screenshots of interior conditions, and are delivered via PDF and SiteMap®.

Manhole Inspection (Clever Scan)

Features:

• Inspects and provides a 360° view of any manhole.
• Produces HD video in real-time, with 3D and unfolded views to assess the manhole surface.
• Integrates with WinCan Web for NASSCO-certified VPI reporting.

Limitations:

• Sunlight intensity may impact effectiveness.
• Best used when there is no need for a quick turnaround on data.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS uses the Clever Scan Manhole device to ensure manholes are free of obstacles before deploying robotic crawlers into the sewer line. This provides an accurate 3D view of the manhole and integrates with WinCan Web for live feedback and easy access to project details in a comprehensive report.

Reporting Software (WinCan Web)

Features:

• Provides real-time data and in-depth reports of each line inspected.
• Cloud-based platform enables easy collaboration.
• Delivers NASSCO-compliant reports ensuring thoroughness and detail.

Limitations:

• To ensure data accuracy, it’s recommended that pipes be cleaned before deploying crawler cameras.
• Accuracy can be affected by dirt, debris, and cable tension.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers utilize WinCan Web for all NASSCO-compliant, interactive VPI reports. These reports are available in cloud-based versions via SiteMap® and WinCan Web, as well as PDF versions for real-time collaboration and planning purposes.

GPS Geode Mapping (Juniper)

Features:

• Used to map results of locating.
• Handheld unit provides accuracy down to 4”.
• Can collect points, lines, or areas and export as KML/KMZ or CAD drawing.

Limitations:

• Data accuracy may be affected by the satellite environment at the time of collection.

The GPRS Difference: The Geode is used by GPRS Project Managers to collect data points, lines, and utility markings from utility locates or subsurface investigations. This data is exported as KML/KMZ files or an overlaid CAD drawing and uploaded to SiteMap® for 24/7 access.

Sonde (Battery Operated)

Features:

• Built into robotic crawlers (Envirosight).
• Attached to long cables (SeeSnake).
• Emits an EM field at 512 Hz.
• Provides rough estimates of pipe depth and length.

Limitations:

• Pipe material may affect sonde signal.
• Signal can be impeded by large debris between the pipe and the surface.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS uses small, battery-powered sondes inserted into pipes, drains, or ducts, located on the surface with a sonde locator or utility locator. The Sonde mode on the receiver allows Project Managers to detect the location and depth of crawlers and SeeSnakes. Using EM locators, GPRS maps and marks subsurface utility lines on the surface with high accuracy.

Leak Detection Equipment

Leak Noise Correlators

Features:

• Two sensors: Each placed on either side of a suspected leak to pinpoint its location.
• Utilizes radio waves and algorithmic processing to display location data.

Limitations:

• Can only be used on located pipes.
• Effectiveness is dependent on correct calibration (pipe material/size).
• Cannot be used on non-metallic pipes.
• Accuracy can be distorted by the distance between the leak and the sensor.

The GPRS Difference: A SIM-certified Project Manager uses leak correlators alongside acoustic leak detection equipment to accurately pinpoint water leaks in pressurized pipes.

Electronic Microphone (DXMic)

Features:

• Includes control unit, headphones, and microphone.
• Uses sound waves & contact points to detect leak signals in pressurized pipes.
• Adding an Elephant Foot ground microphone enhances accuracy to pinpoint leak locations.

Limitations:

• Accuracy can be affected by pipe size & material, water pressure, leak size, and soil type.
• Ambient noise (trucks, traffic, heavy equipment) can affect accuracy.
• Inconsistent materials (non-metallic piping, PVC, cement, or transite) can affect assessment.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers pair the DXMic with other leak detection tools for quick and accurate leak location. Once a leak is located, they mark out a 20’ x 20’ box of all subsurface utilities around the water line for safety and accuracy.

Underground Scanning GPR Antenna

Features:

• Frequencies range from 250 MHz-450 MHz.
• 8’ or more depth capability.

Limitations:

• Soil type can affect results.
• 8’ depth measurement may vary depending on the surface material.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS utilizes GPR alongside acoustic and correlative leak detection to confirm pipe locations and visualize the subsurface for safe excavation.

Elephant Foot

Features:

• Ground microphone used to listen and pinpoint leak locations on water lines.
• Amplifies sound of leak by blocking out additional background noise.
• Helps the Project Manager capture pressurized pipe sound below ground.

Limitations:

• Ambient noise (trucks, traffic, heavy equipment) can affect accuracy.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS Project Managers use the Elephant Foot to isolate and amplify leak signals, even in ceramic, plastic, and metal pipes. It’s often used in combination with complementary technologies to verify leak locations.

3D Laser Scanning Equipment

Leica P-Series ScanStation (P50/P40/P30)

Features:

• 2-4mm accuracy in 3D point cloud capture & HDR imaging.
• One million points per second capture rate & 1 km range.
• Survey-grade point cloud ties to a coordinate system.
• Dual-axis compensator ensures level scans.

Limitations:

• Requires line-of-sight for measurements.
• Not suitable for scanning small parts for reverse engineering.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS uses the Leica P-Series for its range and precision, allowing our Mapping & Modeling Team to create 3D point clouds, BIM models, 3D meshes, and more. 3D laser scanning is often paired with GPR, EM imaging, and VPI for a complete above and below ground imaging solution.

Leica RTC360 Laser Scanner

Features:

• 2-6mm accuracy in mid-range scanning.
• Lightweight (<12 lbs.) with one-button operation.
• 2 million data points per second scan rate to capture colorized point clouds and HDR images in less than 2 minutes.
• Visual Inertial System (VIS) pre-registers field scans for faster data export.

Limitations:

• Requires line-of-sight for measurements.
• Cannot scan small parts for reverse engineering.
• High-resolution scans limited to 65 meters.

The GPRS Difference: The RTC360 is used for large-area coverage in high resolution. Its automatic field registration allows for seamless data transfer to our Mapping & Modeling Team, enabling the creation of detailed point clouds, CAD drawings, and more.

Leica BLK360 Laser Scanner

Features:

• Compact (< 2 lbs.) for smaller applications.
• 60m range with 4-7mm accuracy.
• 680,000 points per second scan rate.
• VIS field registration for quick data export.
• Can stream point clouds or HDR images to iPad or Cyclone Register 360.

Limitations:

• Requires line-of-sight for measurements.
• Best for use at 5-10’ for higher resolution scans.
• Limited storage capacity.

The GPRS Difference: The BLK360 is GPRS’ tool of choice for high-resolution, fast scanning. Its VIS data registration enables quick export to files used by our Mapping & Modeling Team to create 3D point clouds, CAD drawings, BIM models, and more.

Matterport Pro 3

Features:

• Scans indoor & outdoor static environments.
• Produces a full-color digital twin at a 10m range with 20mm accuracy.
• 0.5m-100m scan range.
• 10 points per degree output on both axes (horizontal & vertical).

Limitations:

• Limited scan storage capacity.
• Paid subscription required for sharing and collaboration.
• Line of sight required for accurate scanning.
• Cannot exceed 8m between scans in large, open areas.

The GPRS Difference: The Matterport Pro3 creates point clouds, 3D models, virtual tours, and 4K HDR photos. GPRS uses the tool to provide accurate as-built visualizations of a project site, incorporating utility locating, concrete scanning, VPI, and leak detection services for a complete solution.

Drone Imagery Equipment

DJI Matrice 600 Pro (M600 Pro)

Features:

• Pre-installed arms and antennas reduce setup time.
• Modular design allows for easy customization.
• Full integration with third-party software and hardware.

Limitations:

• FAA license required to operate.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS uses the M600 Pro to visualize hard-to-reach areas. With the drone, we can safely hover over rooftops, fly along drainage culverts, and under overpasses to assess high-rise conditions, all without putting human lives at risk. When outfitted with cameras and 3D laser scanners, the M600 generates 3D point clouds, models, and fully rectified orthomosaic photogrammetry.

DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced

Features:

• 640 x 512 px thermal camera handles smoke, fog, and low-light conditions.
• Automated Inspection Missions enable inspections with centimeter-level RTK precision.
• Seamless switching between visual, thermal, or split-view feeds with a simple tap.

Limitations:

• FAA license required to operate.

The GPRS Difference: GPRS uses the DJI Mavic 2 to survey areas that are hard to access. It can hover over rooftops, fly along culverts, and assess high-rise conditions from safe distances. With the right equipment, the Mavic 2 helps create 3D point clouds, models, and orthomosaic photogrammetry to provide accurate, high-quality visuals for the project.