Geophysical Survey Systems Inc (GSSI) · gpr

GSSI StructureScan Mini LT

The GSSI StructureScan Mini LT is a single-channel hand-held ground-penetrating radar specifically designed for concrete inspection. The instrument operates at a high-frequency antenna (~2.6 GHz) optimised for shallow concrete scanning to approximately 400 mm depth, with cover-depth measurement and rebar-location accuracy comparable to the Hilti PS 1000 and Proceq GP8800. The Mini LT is widely used by concrete cutting, coring and demolition contractors as well as structural engineering practitioners, and is one of the standard GPR instruments specified for pre-coring service-strike avoidance work in Australia.

TRSC Application Commentary

TRSC carries the GSSI StructureScan Mini LT as a back-up to the Hilti PS 1000 and as the GPR instrument deployed by sub-contracted concrete-cutting partners on pre-cutting verification scans. The Mini LT has a smaller form factor than the PS 1000 (lighter, easier single-handed operation), which makes it advantageous in confined-space surveys (mechanical risers, tight cavity-wall access) and on overhead-soffit scans where the operator must hold the instrument above shoulder height for extended periods. The functional capability overlaps with the PS 1000 and Proceq instruments — the choice on a given investigation is driven by the existing instrument inventory of the cutting-contractor partner and the form-factor requirements of the access geometry. Operational discipline mirrors all hand-held GPR work: surface preparation to clean concrete, systematic survey grid (not random pass), and calibration verification against a known cover before relying on cover readings. The Mini LT is the standard recommendation TRSC makes to client cutting contractors for sites where TRSC itself is not on-site for the cutting operation but pre-cutting GPR verification is required to confirm the absence of post-tensioning tendons or services in the planned cut path. The instrument's integrated touchscreen also enables the cutting contractor to mark up scan results on-screen and capture screenshot evidence for the project file, supporting the documentation-of-due-diligence chain that TRSC's RPEQ engineer relies on when post-cutting Form 15 certification is requested for tenancy fitout or services penetration scopes, particularly on heritage and high-occupancy structures where the certification standard of care is materially elevated.

Enabled Investigations
  • Pre-cutting and pre-coring service-strike verification
  • Confined-space concrete scanning
  • Overhead-soffit reinforcement survey
  • Concrete cutting contractor pre-work verification
Frequently Asked Questions

Application questions about GSSI StructureScan Mini LT

How does the StructureScan Mini LT compare to the Hilti PS 1000?
Both are concrete GPR instruments operating in the high-frequency range with comparable cover-depth measurement capability. The PS 1000 is the larger three-channel system with broader frequency range and post-processed 3D depth slicing. The Mini LT is the smaller single-channel system optimised for hand-held use in confined spaces and on overhead surfaces. The choice on a given investigation is driven by access geometry and existing instrument inventory.
Can the Mini LT find post-tensioning tendons?
Yes for tendons within the antenna depth envelope (~400 mm). For deeper post-tensioning systems or for facade panel-anchor verification at greater depth, TRSC uses the PS 1000 with its lower-frequency channel or supplements GPR with electromagnetic detection (Profometer / Ferroscan).
Does TRSC operate the Mini LT or rely on cutting-contractor operation?
Both. TRSC carries the Mini LT for use on TRSC investigations and recommends it to client cutting contractors for sites where TRSC is not on-site for the cutting operation but pre-cutting verification is required. TRSC engineering review of the cutting-contractor scan is standard practice when significant structural risk attaches to the planned cut.
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