Subsurface Mapping – Av. das Américas, Rio de Janeiro

Project Overview

Av. das Américas is one of the busiest arterial roads in Rio de Janeiro, with intense traffic flow and a high concentration of underground utilities such as water, gas, telecom, power, and sewage.

The challenge was to execute accurate subsurface mapping without interrupting traffic, ensuring safety and efficiency for future directional drilling and maintenance projects in this dense urban corridor.

Mapin’s Approach

Mapin carried out a non-destructive survey using state-of-the-art vehicle-mounted 3D Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). This solution enabled high-productivity data collection and advanced volumetric processing to deliver:

  • Continuous 3D coverage of the surveyed section.

  • Georeferenced maps and longitudinal profiles of utilities.

  • Integration with GIS, BIM, Digital Twin, and HDD design.

  • Fast, actionable insights to support engineering and construction.

Project Outcomes

The survey identified major utility corridors, duct banks, and inspection chambers, enabling clear visualization of conflicts and intersections. Data was integrated into georeferenced maps and 3D models, supporting decision-making and reducing risks for future works.

Client

Naturgy, Norgas, Mitsui Gás, Rio+ Saneamento

Date

July 2025

Project Type

Urban Infrastructure Mapping

Deliverables
  • 2D georeferenced maps of all detected utilities.

  • Longitudinal cross-sections with depth and position data.

  • Technical radargrams and methodological report.

  • Data exports in DWG, DXF, SHP, KMZ, and other industry-standard formats.

  • (Optional) 3D subsurface models, surface integration (LiDAR/photogrammetry), and AR visualization via PipeSnap.

Key Benefits

✔️ Traffic-safe: survey performed in motion, no full lane closures.
✔️ Accurate & reliable: precise identification of buried utilities.
✔️ Agile: rapid field execution and delivery.
✔️ Data-driven: clear information for safer design and construction.

Impact

Reducing downtimes; Increasing reliability; Regulatory compliance