EnTech provides subsurface diagnostics that offer a dynamic view of underground infrastructure. Our stacking technologies create a comprehensive system that supplies our clients with timely and accurate information enabling them to make informed decisions.

Research in the 1980's by EnTech Engineering, Inc., Sverdrup & Parcel (Now Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.) and the Metropolitan Sewer District of St. Louis (MSD) showed that failures in roadways often begin with small corrosion holes in underground water and sewer pipelines.

Over 5 to 20 years, these leaks liquefy the surrounding soils and this combination of water and loose soil builds up pressure that has to go somewhere. The typical escape route is a nearby sewer line that has cracked or has failed joints where the soil and water enters and is then washed downstream unnoticed. Given enough time, the void enlarges to the extent that the soil above it collapses to form an "overnight" sinkhole.

Sinkhole prevention begins with an Infrared Energy Pattern Analysis (IR-EPA) investigation of the suspect areas. Our IR-EPA systems detect specific energy patterns created by underground leaks caused by pipelines, underground storage tanks (USTs), flood levees and waterways.

The IR-EPA investigation can be complimented with Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) for large aerial surveys. Sub-meter GPS accuracy allows field crews to easily locate areas that may cause future sinkholes. We can investigate a significant volume of roadway using this method without disrupting traffic and we cut cost by targeting only the areas that need to be further investigated.

Each investigation can be explored further utilizing Second Generation Ground Penetrating Microwave Radar (GPR). GPR provides 3-D views of specific areas that require more detail than IR-EPA can offer. Additional information such as, composition, depth, and size of underground anomalies can help our clients remediate underground leaks that may lead to sinkholes.

For more information please click the technologies tab or contact us at info@entechworld.com or 636-207-0200.

THE PROJECT
Headlines were made at a domestic airport when the landing gear of a commercial airplane, with passengers aboard, fell through the taxiway pavement while approaching the terminal. A 6 ft. by 6 ft. by 8 ft. deep void had formed underneath the pavement as a result of leaks and soil infiltration into a 40-year old buried storm water drainage pipe.

OUR TECHNOLOGY
EnTech was asked to utilize their patented technology to inspect over 2,000,000 sq. ft. of pavement since the drainage system was located beneath all the taxiways and runways.

THE PERSONALIZED SOLUTION
The investigation was performed when air traffic was at a minimum to decrease disruption. We used Infrared Energy Pattern Analysis to identify twelve (12) subsurface voids, some of which could have caused major damage had the pavement collapsed.

EnTech utilizes selected non-invasive technologies to investigate & pinpoint hidden infrastructure problems. Our licensed Professional Engineers help you evaluate, maintain, monitor and extend the life of your assets & infrastructure.

For more information about the technologies we use, see the Technologies page.