What is Underground Utility Mapping (UUM)?

Underground Utility Mapping (UUM)

Survey using geophysical techniques to create a digital representation of underneath features.

The survey composes a highly detailed below surface profile using the latest technology, including Ground Penetrating Radar  (GPR) equipment, and Electro-Magnetic Locators (EML).

This technology is used to interpret reflected signals from structures, services, buried objects, and layers beneath the ground ultimately providing vital detail required for project planning ahead of any prospective works.

This kind of survey capable to identify the position and labelling public utility mains which are located underground.

These mains may include utilities lines for telecommunication, electricity distribution, natural gas, water mains and wastewater pipes.

Methodology of UUM Data Acquisition

There are two main types of underground utility survey methods known as EML and GPR. Most surveys of this nature will require a combination of the two to ensure that the map produced is as accurate and comprehensive as it possibly can be.

Electro Magnetic Locator (EML) technology is the most popular data collection method used in underground utility surveying and works by tracing the signals emitted by targets beneath the ground such as:

  • Metallic fuel pipes
  • Metallic vent pipes
  • Electricity cables
  • Telecommunication cables (metallic)
  • Communication cables
  • Metallic water pipes
  • Metallic gas pipes
  • Cable TV cables

 

Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) technology is used to locate objects which, essentially, are of a different material to the surrounding environment.

Although this type of radar is not as exact as EML, it is useful for finding the location of objects buried underground, which would otherwise be invisible.

This method usually to be used as cross-checking for data comparison that resulted from EML.

The feature or utilities that can be trace as below:

  • Fiber optic cables
  • Plastic gas pipes  
  • Concrete pipes
  • Plastic water pipes
  • Clay pipes
  • Plastic cable ducts
  • Plastic fuel pipes
  • Plastic vent pipes

Importance of Underground Utility Mapping

  • To overview of general information for preliminary study and planning in early phase of construction or future development.
  • To identify route, depth and diameter for particular utilities in term of power cable, water pipe, gas pipe and tele-communication cable.
  • To be as reference information and base map for any excavation activities in purpose of relocation and laying utilities.

Advantages

  • Capable to present how underneath network of each utilities work with exposed outsource.
  • Able to generate complete topographic information combining of exposed and underneath features.
  • Reduce project planning time.
  • Minimize risk especially in excavation activities.
  • Comply with health and safety regulation.

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