Subsurface Utility Engineering Surveys (S.U.E.)
The inability to obtain reliable underground utility information has long been a troublesome problem for any designer. Many States utilize consultants to identify the quality of subsurface utility information needed for highway plans, and to acquire and manage that level of information during the development of highway projects. This engineering practice is known as Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE). SUE is an engineering practice that has evolved considerably over the past decade. The SUE process combines civil engineering, surveying, and geophysics. It utilizes several technologies, including vacuum excavation and surface geophysics. Its use has become a routine requirement on any project.
Underground Utility Locating
HADONNE provides state-of-the-art underground utility locating services for all pre-excavation and site planning needs. We employ several methods and equipment including Ground Penetrating Radar for locating all underground utilities.
Underground Utility Mapping and GIS
At HADONNE we are experts in the process of integrating field Utility Locating methodologies with the most advanced and versatile office Software and Technicians, our GIS department’s personnel is best experienced in the process of mapping existing utilities, whether it is producing Utility Atlas from scratch to the development and of the most complex Utility inventory data base, our team has successfully completed several utility mapping projects.
Underground Utility Excavation (SOFTDIG)
Vacuum excavation is a non-destructive method for obtaining size, configuration, condition and elevation of the existing utility. We begin by cutting an 8 inch diameter hole on the surface. Then using a combination of compressed air and a high-pressured vacuum we are able to extract the spoil and safely expose the utility. After the required information is collected, a full restoration is completed; subsequently either a report or a Survey Map is then provided to the client.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
HADONNE provides the following SUE Quality Levels:
Quality Level D: The most basic level of information for utility locations. It comes solely from existing utility records or verbal recollections, both typically unreliable sources. It may provide an overall "feel" for the congestion of utilities, but is often highly limited in terms of comprehensiveness and accuracy. QL-D is useful primarily for project planning and route selection activities.
Quality Level C: The most commonly used, involves surveying visible utility facilities (e.g., manholes, valve boxes, etc.) and correlating this information with existing utility records (QL-D information). When using this information, it is not unusual to find that many underground utilities have been either omitted or erroneously plotted. Its usefulness, therefore, is primarily on rural projects where utilities are not prevalent, or are not too expensive to repair or relocate.
Quality Level B: Involves the application of appropriate surface geophysical methods to determine the existence and horizontal position of virtually all utilities within the project limits. This activity is called "designating". The information obtained in this manner is surveyed to project control. It addresses problems caused by inaccurate utility records, abandoned or unrecorded facilities, and lost references. The proper selection and application of surface geophysical techniques for achieving QL-B data is critical. Information provided by QL-B can enable the accomplishment of preliminary engineering goals. Decisions regarding location of storm drainage systems, footers, foundations and other design features can be made to successfully avoid conflicts with existing utilities. Slight adjustments in design can produce substantial cost savings by eliminating utility relocation.