Going Underground with Sub-Surface Surveys
Before a building project is developed and actual construction begins it is necessary that developers understand what lurks beneath a particular plot. Soils testing is one analysis that can determine whether building plans are viable. Of course there are other potential issues as well such as seismic shock factors and any other underground disturbances that could occur along with organic decomposition. Hazards and faults need to be investigated and archaeological information needs to be appreciated too. Geo-physical testing is often needed when larger plots are being investigated.
Without this knowledge, safety, budget and quality are at risk as well as the success of a project as a whole. It goes without saying that thorough awareness of what is going on under the ground determines how well a building will be constructed above ground. Another area of investigation is known as sub-surface utility engineering (SUE), which in short locates and maps underground utilities.
HOKLAS sub-surface surveys Hong Kong are focused on looking at a multitude of potential issues during and post construction in the city. These services evaluate and provide data and images on a variety of concrete-related issues located under the ground, This includes mapping reinforcement bars which make up reinforced steel, which are known in the trade as rebars. The location of these rebars can be pinpointed as can post-tension cables. Many of these tests are valuable as construction is carried out.
While many of Hong Kong’s buildings tower above the ground, there is a lot of activity underneath as well, with deep foundations too. The safety of near-by structures needs to be ensured as well as ground water levels detected also.
Imaging can be used to detect any underground obstructions and determine structural integrity of a building underground as well as detecting and mapping any voids and cracks. Prior to construction, the depth to bedrock needs to also be determined. It has to be noted that sub-surface surveys can relate to what is actually happening underground, while concrete radar surveys look under the surface of this material, checking out reinforced steel quality.
Sub-surface factors are important to locate and map so that they are not compromised during drilling and any other procedures such as coring. On top of this, there are safety issues to ensure that construction workers are adequately protected. It is also vital that utility lines are not inadvertently cut and that equipment is not damaged.
