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Geotechnical Engineering
Subsurface Utility Engineering
WPC works closely with highway engineers, construction managers, and utility owners on projects during excavation activity such as the placement of new utilities, upgrading existing utilities, or other development activity that may impact existing utilities. WPC’s SUE services eliminates “finding out too late” that plotted or so called “as built” utility information was incorrect. Studies have proven that for every $1.00 spent on Subsurface Utility Engineering, $5.00 is realized in savings due to utility related expenses. During the development of each project, WPC will acquire and manage utility information in accordance with standards set forth by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). ASCE 38-02 defines four distinctive quality levels with respect to utility information. The quality ratings are ranked from the most reliable (QL-A) to the least reliable (QL-D). QL-A — Provides a three-dimensional analysis for final design decisions, reduces potential redesign costs, and minimizes utility relocations through the installation of test holes at key locations where determining the elevation of the utility is critical. QL-B — Provides accurate horizontal locations of existing utilities through the use of geophysical instruments thus identifying potential utility conflicts in preliminary designs. QL-C — Using QL-D information, surveys and/or site visits are made to verify above ground features such as manholes, valves, posts, etc.; however, this level still does not depict the accurate mapping of the underground utilities. QL-D — Includes data from available utility records and is limited to project planning and route selection. |
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Prior to beginning a construction project, an evaluation of the subsurface conditions is necessary to determine the suitability of the soils to support the intended uses. Evaluations may include soil stability, foundation design parameters, site improvement considerations, undercutting depths, seismic challenges and/or groundwater recommendations. Data is collected using a variety of methods ranging from conventional soil test borings to more sophisticated in situ testing using Piezocone Penetration Tests and Flat Blade Dilatometers. 
WPC geotechnical engineers determine the traits and behavior of subsurface soils, interpret this data, and make recommendations on soil parameters which are considered in the construction design. In addition to the engineer, our geotechnical team may also include geologists, field and laboratory technicians, and drillers. Examples of geotechnical engineering services provided by WPC include the following: 
With the use of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) technology, WPC will show you how to remove the risk of the “unknowns” associated with underground utilities during construction projects through the collection and mapping of underground utilities prior to the design and construction phases of projects. SUE locates underground utilities within inches, not feet, thus enhancing the accuracy of project designs, cost estimates, and safety.