Market Trends of Underground Utility Mapping Industry
Ground Penetrating Radar is Expected to be the Largest Component Type Solution
- Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) stands out as the premier choice for utility mapping, emitting directional electromagnetic waves in the MHz and GHz range. By analyzing the return of these signals, GPR accurately pinpoints the location of underground utility infrastructure.
- GPR technology is notably adept at identifying both metallic and nonmetallic utilities. Utility surveyors favor GPR for its swift data acquisition, cost-effectiveness, and high-resolution imagery in utility mapping surveys.
- Beyond utility mapping, GPR serves as a non-destructive tool for evaluating concrete structures, revealing insights on rebar placements, slab thickness, and the presence of voids or conduits. This non-invasive approach not only ensures precise results but also minimizes disruptions to ongoing construction projects.
- In a forward-looking move, drone manufacturers are crafting GPR-enabled drones, hinting at a burgeoning market opportunity as they become poised to detect underground utilities.
- With the expansion of natural gas pipelines, the demand for precise mapping and monitoring intensifies. Ground penetration techniques play a pivotal role in locating, identifying, and evaluating pipeline conditions, all while safeguarding the surrounding environment. As of February 2024, data from GGON highlights China's dominance in the global gas pipeline landscape. Boasting 442 operational pipelines and an additional 302 either proposed or under construction, China's network is a significant contributor to the global tally of over 1,500 operational gas pipelines.
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North America Holds Largest Market Share
- In North America, rapid urbanization and population growth are straining existing infrastructure systems, leading to a heightened demand for underground utility mapping services. The complexity and density of urban areas necessitate precise mapping to prevent damage to underground utilities during construction.
- The National Underground Asset Registry Advisory Group reports that the challenge of locating underground utilities costs the U.S. economy approximately USD 50 billion annually. This issue has also led to over 1,500 injuries and nearly 400 fatalities in the past two decades. Furthermore, inaccuracies in underground utility mapping contribute significantly to delays in highway construction. Such uncertainties are driving the adoption of advanced technology-based solutions in the region.
- Numerous cities and municipalities across North America are channeling investments into smart city initiatives. These efforts aim to harness technology for better infrastructure management, enhanced public services, and optimized resource allocation. Within this context, underground utility mapping plays a pivotal role, offering vital data for infrastructural asset management and planning.
- Efforts are underway in the region to develop methods for sharing data on underground utilities, especially those captured during construction. A notable example is the City of Chicago's pilot program, which aims to deploy a platform for data collection and sharing a 3D map of the subway.
- Regional players are increasingly adopting inorganic growth strategies to capture larger market shares, further propelling the segment's growth. Additionally, many public works departments in the region are utilizing GIS technology to pinpoint the locations of underground utilities.
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