Structural Survey
to get your project moving 

Ferro scanning is a non-destructive testing technique used to locate and identify ferrous metals within concrete structures. It utilizes electromagnetic fields to detect steel reinforcement bars (rebars), conduits, and other metal objects embedded in concrete. This helps in assessing the structure's integrity and planning any necessary drilling, cutting, or coring activities safely.

The process involves using a ferro scanner device that emits electromagnetic waves and detects the magnetic field changes caused by ferrous objects within the concrete. The scanner maps the position and depth of these objects, and the data is typically displayed on a screen attached to the device, providing real-time feedback to the operator.

Ferro scanning helps in: Preventing structural damage by accurately locating rebar and other metallic objects before cutting or drilling into concrete. Ensuring safety by identifying the locations of electrical conduits that could cause electrocution or short circuits. Saving time and resources by providing precise information about the structural components, which facilitates efficient modification or reinforcement. Enhancing structural assessment capabilities by offering insights into the reinforcement pattern, which is crucial for seismic retrofitting and renovation projects.

No, ferro scanning is a non-invasive and non-destructive method. It does not require any physical alteration or damage to the concrete. The technique can be performed during regular working hours without disrupting the site's normal operations.

Generally, ferro scanning is designed to detect ferrous metals such as iron and steel. Non-ferrous metals like aluminum and copper are not detected by this technology. For detecting such materials, other methods like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) might be more suitable.

While ferro scanning is highly effective for locating metallic objects in concrete, it has limitations including: Depth limitation: The scanning depth can be restricted depending on the scanner model and the concrete's properties, typically ranging up to a few feet. Interference: Large metallic surfaces or densely packed rebars can create signal interference, complicating the data interpretation. Material specificity: It cannot detect non-metallic objects such as plastic pipes or voids.

Preparation for ferro scanning includes: Clearing the surface area of the concrete to be scanned from any obstructive materials like mud, dust, or debris to ensure accurate readings. Marking out specific areas of interest to focus the scanning efficiently. Providing access to electrical power for the scanning equipment, if not battery-operated. Coordinating with site operations to ensure that the scanning area remains undisturbed during the inspection.

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) scanning is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure distances of buildings. These light pulses—combined with other data recorded by the airborne system—generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of the building and its surface characteristics.

LiDAR works by emitting a laser beam towards the target and measuring the time it takes for the light to reflect back to the sensor. This time is then used to calculate the distance between the LiDAR system and the target.

LiDAR scanning is used in numerous fields including geography, archaeology, forestry, geology, seismology, atmospheric physics, and more. It's particularly useful for mapping, creating 3D models of terrain, measuring forest biomass, and urban planning.

Yes, LiDAR scanning is known for its high accuracy. It can measure distances with precision down to the mm, making it ideal for detailed topographical surveys and 3D modeling.

Airborne LiDAR is mounted on aircraft and is used primarily for surveying large areas, while terrestrial LiDAR systems are ground-based and used for scanning smaller, more detailed objects or landscapes.

A point cloud is a set of data points in space produced by LiDAR scanning. Each point represents a single measurement of the surface being scanned, and collectively, these points create a detailed 3D model of the area.

Yes, terrestrial LiDAR systems can be used indoors for architectural surveys, historical preservation, and construction projects, providing detailed measurements and 3D models of interior spaces.