Subsurface Utility Investigation - SUI
A Subsurface Utility Investigation (SUI) is a complex and comprehensive type of investigation that requires thorough coordination and management. This investigation process is used on both commercial and industrial sites to map out and identify the location and position of underground pipes/utility lines in the most accurate way. OmniVueNDT has a knowledgeable and dedicated crew to perform such investigations and project management.
There are several phases of this subsurface utility investigation which follow accordingly to produce the best results for clients. OmniVueNDT’s standardized procedure for SUI surveys could assist Plant Engineering teams in their unit expansion projects in order to mitigate or reduce the risk of damaging unknown subsurface lines or identifying them for future utilization. We use different types of Geophysical survey methods to perform surveys on Quality Level B in accordance with the current ASTM standards.
The OmniVueNDT project management team is also capable of Quality Level A workflow management that starts with the trenching. The trenching process is typically done by using an HVAC (Hydro Vacuum Excavation) system. HVAC crew members must be trained properly. The acquired soil gets pumped directly into a sealed container for hazardous waste management purposes.
After the process is completed the located utility lines can be seen in the trench. Now they are ready to be surveyed and record the point coordinate information of the latitude and longitude coordinates of utilities as well as relative depth. The survey must be done by a licensed Land Surveyor. The image below indicates a typical expiratory trench that contains several utility lines.
The result of the Quality Level A work phase is a CAD drawing in a desired trajectory system. (below)
The final result of the QLA and QLB work process are completed. All of the located utilities in the expiratory trench must be surveyed in the most accurate way. That survey grade accurate database will be integrated into a map within a plant coordinate system.
OmniVueNDT is dedicated to assisting in both small and major industrial projects in a professional way to produce an accurate utility map.
