Can GPR detect PVC pipes and plastic conduits?

Yes, GPR technology effectively detects PVC pipes, plastic conduits, and other non-metallic embedded objects. While metallic objects like rebar and post-tension cables produce stronger signals, our advanced GPR systems are calibrated to identify dielectric contrasts that reveal PVC installations. This capability is essential for comprehensive utility mapping, ensuring no embedded services are overlooked during drilling or cutting operations. Our Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) approach provides complete visibility of all embedded materials without structural damage.

Is GPR scanning safe? Does it emit radiation?

GPR scanning is completely safe and emits no harmful radiation. Unlike X-ray methods that use ionizing radiation, Ground Penetrating Radar uses low-power radio frequency waves similar to Wi-Fi signals. This makes GPR scanning safe for use in occupied buildings, hospitals, healthcare facilities, schools, and sensitive environments where radiation exposure must be avoided. For UAE Construction Safety compliance, GPR is the preferred method for slab scanning in hospitals, clinics, and hospitality venues where operational continuity and safety are paramount.

How does GPR map post-tension (PT) cables?

Our GPR systems utilize specialized antenna arrays and signal processing algorithms to detect and map post-tension cables with high precision. PT cables are identified by their characteristic electromagnetic signature and spatial configuration. We provide detailed mapping reports showing cable locations, depths, and orientations, which is critical for preventing catastrophic structural failures during drilling or cutting operations. This advanced PT cable mapping capability is essential for UAE Construction Safety standards, particularly in high-rise buildings and infrastructure projects where post-tension systems are prevalent.

Does GPR require access to both sides of the concrete slab?

No, GPR scanning requires access to only one side of the concrete slab—the surface where you need to perform work. This single-side access advantage is a significant benefit over X-ray methods, which typically require access to both the top and bottom surfaces of the slab. Our GPR technology can scan from the top surface alone, making it ideal for projects where the floor below is already finished, occupied, or inaccessible. This capability is particularly valuable for hospital renovations, hotel refurbishments, and occupied building projects in Dubai, where accessing spaces below is impractical or disruptive.

What makes GPR superior to X-ray for slab scanning in Dubai?

GPR offers several advantages over X-ray for Slab Scanning Dubai applications. First, GPR requires only single-side access, eliminating the need for ceiling access or disrupting spaces below. Second, GPR is completely radiation-free, making it safe for occupied buildings, hospitals, and sensitive environments—critical for UAE Construction Safety compliance. Third, GPR provides real-time results and can cover larger areas more efficiently. Finally, as a Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) method, GPR causes no structural damage and requires no evacuation of surrounding areas, enabling projects to continue operating normally during scanning operations.

Our Services

GPR Concrete Scanning

Advanced ground-penetrating radar technology for precise detection of embedded objects, ensuring safety and accuracy in every project.

Quick Facts: GPR Scanning

•Scanning depth: Up to 200cm in concrete structures
•Equipment: Proceq GP8000 (industry-leading technology)
•Detection: PT cables, rebar, conduits, voids, utilities
•Typical duration: 1-2 hours for standard residential scan
•Mobilization: 24-48 hours (emergency service available)
•Service areas: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
•Safety: Zero radiation, non-destructive testing (NDT)
•Compliance: UAE Civil Defense standards and safety protocols

When Do You Need GPR Scanning?

You need GPR concrete scanning when you are planning to drill, cut, or modify concrete structures and must avoid hitting post-tension (PT) cables, rebar, or embedded utilities. Common situations include: before core drilling operations, during renovation planning, for rebar mapping and documentation, before saw cutting concrete, and when creating new penetrations for MEP systems. GPR scanning is essential across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah construction sites to prevent costly utility strikes and structural damage.

Why Choose GPR Scanning?

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) that saves time, money, and ensures project safety. Expert PT cable detection, concrete X-ray services, and rebar mapping across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

99% Accuracy

Precise location of rebar, post-tension cables, conduits, and voids with minimal margin of error.

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)

Advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods scan without damaging existing structures or disrupting ongoing operations. Perfect for PT cable detection and rebar mapping.

Fast Results

Real-time scanning and immediate reporting for quick project decision-making.

GPR Scanning vs X-Ray for Concrete

When deciding between GPR and X-ray for concrete scanning in Dubai, GPR offers significant advantages:

Single-Side Access: GPR scanning requires access to only one side of the concrete slab, while X-ray requires access to both sides, making GPR ideal for occupied buildings and inaccessible areas.

Zero Radiation: GPR emits no harmful radiation and is completely safe for use in occupied buildings, malls, hospitals, and commercial spaces. X-ray methods require 50-meter evacuation zones and typically must be done at night.

Real-Time Results: GPR provides immediate, on-site results with surface marking, allowing work to continue without delays. X-ray methods require image processing time.

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): GPR is a true NDT method that doesn't damage concrete or disrupt operations, making it the preferred choice for most construction and renovation projects in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

For slab scanning and PT cable detection in UAE construction sites, GPR is the superior choice in terms of safety, convenience, and compliance with local regulations.

What We Can Detect

PT Cable Detection & Post-Tension Scanning

Our advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) technology specializes in PT cable detection and post-tension scanning. Hitting a post-tension cable can cause catastrophic structural failure, making precise detection critical for project safety.

Concrete X-Ray Services & Rebar Mapping

Professional concrete X-ray services provide detailed rebar mapping and visualization of embedded structures. Our Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods ensure accurate detection without damaging existing concrete.

Rebar (Reinforcement bars)

Post-Tension (PT) Cables

PVC/Plastic Pipes

Power Conduits

Voids

Technical Specifications

Scanning Depth:

Up to 200cm penetration depth in concrete structures

Applications:

Suitable for slabs, columns, bridge decks, and structural elements

Our Scanning Process

Calibrated Scanning

Our technicians use industry-leading Proceq GP8000 GPR equipment, calibrated specifically for your concrete structure. We systematically scan the target area, collecting real-time data on embedded utilities, rebar placement, PT cables, and structural anomalies. This comprehensive scanning ensures nothing is missed.

Real-time Analysis

As data is collected, our experienced technicians analyze the GPR readings in real-time, distinguishing between rebar, post-tension cables, conduits, and voids. This immediate analysis allows us to verify findings on-site and ensure complete coverage before marking.

On-site Surface Marking

Once analysis is complete, we mark all detected objects directly on the concrete surface using industry-standard color coding. This visual reference enables your team to proceed with drilling, cutting, or modifications with complete confidence, avoiding costly utility hits.

Common Applications

Pre-construction surveys

Renovation planning

Core drilling preparation

Structural assessments

Safety compliance

Quality control verification

Technical FAQs

Expert answers to common technical questions about GPR scanning, safety, detection capabilities, and applications in UAE construction projects.

Our Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) equipment achieves a maximum penetration depth of 200cm in concrete structures. This depth range is optimal for detecting embedded utilities, rebar, post-tension cables, and conduits within standard and deeper slab thicknesses. For Slab Scanning Dubai projects, this 200cm capability ensures comprehensive coverage of most commercial and residential concrete slabs, making GPR an ideal Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) solution for pre-construction surveys and renovation planning.

Related Services

→Need core drilling after scanning? See our Diamond Core Cutting Services →Planning larger site work? Explore our Excavation Services

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