Harfsen, Netherlands (November 20, 2014) – InfraRadar, an advanced mobile ground penetrating radar infrastructure locator, developed and manufactured here by GT Frontline, recently switched to the Spectra Precision SP80 GNSS receiver. As company president, Dick van der Roest said, “This was done because you cannot do a good survey without a good position, and the SP80 performs significantly better than competing systems.”
SP80 with Infrastructure Locator
The InfraRadar, integrated with the SP80, is used to map underground infrastructures, including pipes, conduits and cables, as well as archeological or geological features, and unexploded ordinance.
A recent project requiring centimeter accuracy involved replacing valves and parts on an underground high-pressure gas pipeline system. The pipeline owner employs a 3-D building information modeling (BIM) system to design and build the replacement parts that are pre-fabricated off-site to be later installed on location. To accurately build the model, the BIM requires centimeter-accurate data on the exact location of the pipeline, the fittings to be replaced, and all third-party pipes and cables in the vicinity. BIM and prefabrication are an efficient maintenance and parts replacement method. However, the required centimeter-level data accuracy is challenging but necessary, as installation adjustments on site are limited to a maximum of two centimeters. To collect the data, the mobile InfraRadar GPR, with integrated SP80, was deployed in a very dense grid to survey the existing layout. Using the centimeter-level accurate data acquired through the InfraRadar with the SP80 GNSS, the pipeline owner was able to prefabricate precisely the replacement parts offsite, transfer them onsite, and successfully install the replacements on the pipeline.
About the SP80 GNSS Receiver
The SP80 GNSS receiver uses Z-Blade processing technology running on a next generation Spectra Precision 240-channel 6G ASIC that fully uses all six GNSS systems: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS. The unique GNSS-centric capability optimally combines GNSS signals without dependency on any specific GNSS system; allowing operations in GLONASS-only or BeiDou-only mode if needed. SP80 also has a unique combination of communication technologies including an integrated 3.5G GSM/UMTS modem, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity, and optional internal UHF transmit radio. The cellular modem may be used for SMS (text message) and e-mail alerts as well as regular Internet or VRS connectivity. The SP80 can also connect to the Internet from the field using Wi-Fi hotspots, where available.
About GT Frontline
Founded in 1992, GT Frontline BV is a geophysics equipment and services company, headquartered in Hafsen, Netherlands, specializing in the cooperative development and application of underground detection equipment. GT Frontline works with companies specializing in geophysical equipment, software, positioning, electronics and plastic fabricating to develop patented products for underground and underwater detection, including the InfraRadar.
About the Spectra Precision Brand
Spectra Precision is an established brand known for delivering quality products to the construction market. Focusing on the specific needs of the conventional surveying market, the Spectra Precision brand offers a complete product portfolio including Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), optical total stations, data collection hardware, field and office software, as well as a wide range of construction tools.
Spectra Precision surveying equipment is an economical choice that utilizes technologies for optimal efficiency. With convenience and reliability as the foundation of the Spectra Precision brand, it is an ideal choice for value. The Spectra Precision brand is backed with the strong technical support that users have come to expect from a quality name in surveying and construction.