There are a wide variety of uses for ground penetrating radar. For decades it has been used to solve crimes, protect utility workers and advance anthropological studies. While the technology has been standard for quite some time, new uses are found for it all the time.
This technology uses microwaves of a large range to identify structures that are underground. It sends the waves into the ground and when it hits an object that has a different property from the surrounding material it sends the signal back to the radar device. This then is sent to a remote device that can track the structure as the person using the devices moves across the land. The entire area that is surveyed using the radar then is mapped out so that those working in the area can determine where there may be obstructions that could be hazardous or of other interest.
This technology is most commonly used by utility workers as it has the ability to identify where there are gas, electric and cable lines. This is essential to ensure the safety of those that need to dig in the area. The increased level of safety for such workers has made this device absolutely essential in the industry. The key is being sure that you fully understand how the technology works.
The main factor to understand is that there essentially is a trade off when it comes to the capabilities of different frequencies. Short wave frequencies have the ability to reach further depths. This can also be impacted by the land being inspected. For example, sand is easier for this technology to penetrate than other soils, such as moist clay. This is directly related to the conductive properties of the surface. The easiest to penetrate is ice, which can allow for several thousands of feet of penetration.
Higher frequencies from the device will not penetrate the ground nearly as far, but it can create a clearer image of what is underground. This is best used for utility purposes in which lines are not extremely far underground, but absolutely must be detected to ensure safety. Most ground penetrating radar allows for a range of frequencies, but knowing what is best takes a great deal of skill and training.
This is not a technology that can be used by just anyone. While you have likely seen people using radar detectors on a sandy beach, this is a very elementary use of the technology. When being used for crime investigation, utility detection and anthropology, it is best that the user has had extensive training in its use. This ensures the most accurate results.
In some cases the training for its use is done in an academic setting, this is especially true for crime investigations and anthropology. However, for those that work in the trades that involve gas, electric and cable, it is often done on the job. This typically involves learning from someone else that has already mastered its use. If this is something you are considering as a career it is important to know just how you can get your foot in the door.
