#United States #Infrasense #SUE Survey #Utility Mapping #Taunton, MA

Infrasense's Utility Mapping Services

Infrasense, Inc., a leader in subsurface utility engineering (SUE), has successfully completed a comprehensive utility mapping survey in Taunton, Massachusetts. This survey aimed to identify and map designated utilities and any subsurface obstructions near the Taunton River. Utilizing advanced technologies and tools like electromagnetic induction (EMI) and 3D ground penetrating radar (GPR), Infrasense's team was able to deliver precise and detailed maps of the site’s utility landscape.

The Objective of the Survey

The primary goal of the survey was to enable stakeholders to visualize the location and type of utilities present beneath the surface, thereby assisting in planning and construction activities. The designated area includes a mix of asphalt roadways, landscaped sections, and railroad rights of way, which required meticulous mapping to prevent disruptions during future development.

Advanced Survey Technologies

Infrasense employed several cutting-edge technologies in this survey:

1. Electromagnetic Induction (EMI): This method was utilized to trace utilities using tools like the Radiodetection 8200 and Subsite Electronics 750 R/T. By operating in both active and passive modes, the engineers were able to detect different frequency signals emitted from various utility lines. While in active mode, a signal is placed on the utility, which is then traced by a handheld receiver. In passive mode, the tools detect naturally occurring frequencies from the currently active AC power.

2. 3D Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR): Particularly useful for differentiating materials, GPR was employed to identify the interfaces between buried utility lines and surrounding materials. The system was equipped with a multichannel array and operated at a central frequency of 450 MHz, with a potential penetration depth of up to 12 feet under ideal conditions, though the average during this survey was around 8 feet.

The vehicle-mounted GPR system also featured an integrated electronic distance measuring instrument (DMI) and GPS for synchronizing data collection across the project area. As the survey progressed, overlapping traverses were conducted at a high scanning rate, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the site.

Data Analysis and Mapping

The collected data from the GPR survey was meticulously analyzed to create detailed 3D models. Each line of GPR data provided a slice of the subsurface, allowing engineers to detect various features indicative of utilities when these features appeared repeatedly in adjacent cross sections. After thorough analysis and modeling, the final maps depicted the locations of all known and potential utilities. These maps included vital information such as service classifications, approximate depths, and other relevant characteristics.

Infrasense's Commitment to Innovation

Since its establishment in 1987, Infrasense has continually applied innovative technologies to address complex subsurface challenges. The firm not only provides essential evaluation services across the United States but also engages in research and development to enhance subsurface detection and nondestructive evaluation methodologies.

For more information about Infrasense and its services, please visit Infrasense's website. The company remains dedicated to bringing precision and efficiency to utility mapping, contributing to safer and more reliable infrastructure development.

Conclusion

Infrasense’s recent utility mapping survey highlights the importance of advanced techniques in identifying and managing subsurface utilities. As urban development continues to accelerate, it is crucial for engineering firms to utilize effective tools and methodologies to prevent utility conflicts and facilitate smooth project execution. With its comprehensive mapping services and commitment to innovation, Infrasense sets a high standard in the industry.