Water Services
Flood Defence and Water Structures
With over 20 years experience of structural investigation we can provide information on the structure and condition of water-related infrastructure such as dams, reservoirs, flood defences and coastal structures.
Our capability includes investigation of earthworks such as dams and levees to detect defects and problems caused by water movement, including subsurface voids that can undermine structures and weaken foundations, to detect leaks and to map saline ingress. Geophysical techniques can be used to evaluate the physical properties of flood defences, often taking a staged approach with satellite and airborne survey data providing cost-effective identification of suspect features for more detailed investigation at ground level.
Non-destructive investigation of hard structures such as concrete and masonry reservoirs, dams, locks and coastal structures can provide a comprehensive appraisal of structure and condition.
GPR survey of canal lock wall to map voids caused by water movement. Following data acquisition sophisticated software is used to filter out unwanted signals and to help recognise patterns of defect distribution in three dimensions. Calibration by targeted coring or excavation can increase the accuracy and reliability of findings.
Investigation of dyke substructure to map voids. Inspection regimes can incorporate remote sensing surveys of large areas to highlight suspect areas, with progressively more detailed geophysical and geotechnical investigation where defects are identified. Repeat measurements enable rates of settlement or water level change to be monitored. This approach enables cost effective asset management by focusing resources on high priority locations.