Inclinometer
“The terms ‘inclinometers’ and ‘deflectometers’ are used interchangeably regarding Bureau concrete dams… Inclinometers are used to measure lateral movements in abutments and foundations of concrete dams. Inclinometer installations may consist of the ‘normal’ type, where a casing is installed and a movable inclinometer probe is used to take readings; or a ‘fixed-type’, where the inclinometer is fixed at a certain location in the casing."[1]
"Advantages and limitations. – Inclinometer installations have proven to give reliable and accurate data over an extended period provided proper installation, maintenance, and monitoring procedures are used. The only major limitation using this type of instrumentation is that a significant degree of specialized training is required for the personnel reading the devices. Such personnel must be trained in the proper care and operation of the equipment and should possess the ability to recognize erroneous or anomalous field data."[1]
"Description of devices. – Inclinometer systems may consist of special casings, casing couplings, inclinometer probe, cable, readout unit, data transmittal system, backfill material and, in some instances, a surface protective pipe with a locking cap."[1]
"Installation procedures. – Inclinometer casings must provide reliable orientation for the inclinometer probe; therefore, proper installation procedures must be observed. The locations for the installations are selected because of subsurface conditions, topography, and depth of any anticipated movements."[1]
"Monitoring procedures. – The inclinometer installations are monitored at prescribed intervals. Inclinometer devices consist of a probe, cable, and digital readout unit. The probe is designed to fit any of the three standard casing sizes, which are 1-7/8, 2-3/4, and 3-3/8 inches (48, 70, and 86 mm). While setting up this instrument to take a set of readings, the guide wheels should be checked for bearing freeplay and tightened if necessary. A small amount of lubricant should be applied to each wheel bearing assembly. The cable connectors should be protected with caps to prevent damage or contamination to the connector contacts. An O-ring provides a watertight seal between the cable and probe; however, some probes are permanently connected to the cable. For the latter case, especially with lighter cables, the cable should be checked for damage near the connection."[1]
"Maintenance. – A regular maintenance program is essential to the proper conduct of inclinometer monitoring. Repair or replacement of an inclinometer probe or readout unit due to misuse or failure to properly maintain the devices can be expensive and result in loss of data due to downtime."[1]
Revision ID: 4984
Revision Date: 12/06/2022