Tiltmeter Applications in Dams
Of all manmade structures, concrete and earthen dams are among the most beneficial, yet are potentially the most destructive. Now, Applied Geomechanics tiltmeters monitor dam performance and structural behavior with greater ease, precision and flexibility then ever before possible-- and at lower cost. Unrivalled Precision in a Practical Package
Applied Geomechanics tiltmeters detect angular movement with the greatest sensitivity and stability available in a practical engineering instrument. Sensitivities of 0.01 part per million (ppm), 0.1 ppm and 1 ppm are standard in our field-proven 500-, 700-, and 800-Series models. Measurements are inertially referenced to the stablest reference state of all: the vertical gravity vector. This reference is built into every instrument so our tiltmeters are installed rapidly and inexpensively. Connection to an automated data acquisition system is simple, giving you absolute knowledge of what's happening at any moment.
Replacing Plumb Lines and Inverted Pendulums
Applied Geomechanics tiltmeters are accurate, reliable, low-cost replacements for the traditional plumb line and inverted pendulum systems used in concrete dams. Surface mounted or platform tiltmeters are conveniently installed anywhere in a dam to obtain a comprehensive record of dam deformation in response to changing reservoir levels, thermal stresses or foundation conditions. When installed beside existing pendulum wires, direct comparisons of tiltmeter and pendulum readings can be made. Tiltmeters eliminate the high costs of pendulum systems. Specific advantages of tiltmeter arrays include:
Measuring Settlement of Earthen Embankments.
Measuring embankment settlement is similar to measuring the deflection of a concrete dam. Rather than horizontal deflection of a vertical profile, we are now looking for vertical settlement of a horizontal profile. The solution is provided by a tiltmeter array paralleling the crest of the dam (or arranged in any other direction of interest).
Vertical settlement is obtained graphically or by integrating the rotational movement between the two abutments. Areas of anomalously high tilt may indicate differential settlement that can lead to piping and dam ailure. Borehole tiltmeters in shallow auger holes are typically used in this application. Surface mount tiltmeters may be used when concrete slabs, walls or vaults are present. Tiltmeter systems offer continuous surveillance, automatic record keeping, and greater resolution than conventional surveying.
Detecting Abutment and Foundation Instability
When installed in dam abutments and foundations, our automated tiltmeters give you evidence of slippage and instability long before other monitoring methods. If you're responsible for dam operations or safety, you should be using Applied Geomechanics tiltmeters. Contact us today for additional details.
Applied Geomechanics tiltmeters detect angular movement with the greatest sensitivity and stability available in a practical engineering instrument. Sensitivities of 0.01 part per million (ppm), 0.1 ppm and 1 ppm are standard in our field-proven 500-, 700-, and 800-Series models. Measurements are inertially referenced to the stablest reference state of all: the vertical gravity vector. This reference is built into every instrument so our tiltmeters are installed rapidly and inexpensively. Connection to an automated data acquisition system is simple, giving you absolute knowledge of what's happening at any moment.
Replacing Plumb Lines and Inverted Pendulums
Applied Geomechanics tiltmeters are accurate, reliable, low-cost replacements for the traditional plumb line and inverted pendulum systems used in concrete dams. Surface mounted or platform tiltmeters are conveniently installed anywhere in a dam to obtain a comprehensive record of dam deformation in response to changing reservoir levels, thermal stresses or foundation conditions. When installed beside existing pendulum wires, direct comparisons of tiltmeter and pendulum readings can be made. Tiltmeters eliminate the high costs of pendulum systems. Specific advantages of tiltmeter arrays include:
- 10 to 100 times lower installed cost.
- Greater resolution
- High reliability
- No mechanical moving parts
- Install quickly in new or existing dams, no shaft drilling required.
- Continuous detection with automated warning capability
- Battery or AC power
- Reduced chance of operator error
- Easy telecommunications to local or remote office
- Low maintenance
- Low operating cost
Measuring Settlement of Earthen Embankments.
Measuring embankment settlement is similar to measuring the deflection of a concrete dam. Rather than horizontal deflection of a vertical profile, we are now looking for vertical settlement of a horizontal profile. The solution is provided by a tiltmeter array paralleling the crest of the dam (or arranged in any other direction of interest).
Vertical settlement is obtained graphically or by integrating the rotational movement between the two abutments. Areas of anomalously high tilt may indicate differential settlement that can lead to piping and dam ailure. Borehole tiltmeters in shallow auger holes are typically used in this application. Surface mount tiltmeters may be used when concrete slabs, walls or vaults are present. Tiltmeter systems offer continuous surveillance, automatic record keeping, and greater resolution than conventional surveying.
Detecting Abutment and Foundation Instability
When installed in dam abutments and foundations, our automated tiltmeters give you evidence of slippage and instability long before other monitoring methods. If you're responsible for dam operations or safety, you should be using Applied Geomechanics tiltmeters. Contact us today for additional details.