Roctest Smartec Telemac News

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 2 2012

Daniele Inaudi — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 15:27:50 +0000

February 27, 2012

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 2 2012)

Contents:
- NEW PRODUCTS: Frost Probe (datasheet)
- NEW APPLICATIONS: Tailing Dams and Landfill Monitoring with Fiber Optic
- Upcoming events and Webinars

New Papers Online

Daniele Inaudi — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:27:38 +0000

February 15, 2012

Two papers form the 5th International Conference on Structural Health Monitoring of Intelligent Infrastructure (SHMII-5), held in Cancun, Mexico on 11-15 December 2011, are now available:

Cost-Benefits Analysis in SHM Projects, D. Inaudi, 5th International Conference on Structural Health Monitoring of Intelligent Infrastructure (SHMII-5) 2011 11-15 December 2011,Cancún, México , (2011)
Localization of instability zones in levees, landslides, sinkholes and tunnels with distributed optical fiber sensors, D. Inaudi, R. Belli, 5th International Conference on Structural Health Monitoring of Intelligent Infrastructure (SHMII-5), 11-15 December 2011,Cancún, México , (2011)

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 1 2012

Daniele Inaudi — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:22:06 +0000

February 2, 2012

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 1 2012)

Contents:
- NEW PRODUCTS: Multi-Level Piezometer
- NEW APPLICATIONS: Sensing in Cryogenic Conditions
- Upcoming events and Webinars

New Multi-level Piezometer released

Daniele Inaudi — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:35:09 +0000

February 2, 2012

The multi-level vibrating wire piezometer is perfect for measuring pore pressures at various depths beneath a single surface location. It allows for quick and reliable installations because multiple piezometers are connected to a single communication cable, which is in turn connected to the data acquisition system or readout. This configuration eliminates complicated and time consuming and, therefore, costly process for installing multiple single sensors in the same borehole. This simplified installation not only reduces installation time but also minimizes the potential for hydraulic communication between sensors that might lead to erratic readings. A typical installation of the multi-level piezometer utilizes a direct grouting installation so that only the multi-level piezometer string and a grout injection tube are needed to complete the installation. Once the grout has hardened, the piezometers are isolated from one another, allowing precise measurements of pore water pressure changes at various depths.

The multi-level piezometers incorporate the same standard features included in our single PW-series vibrating wire piezometers. The main function of this multi-level piezometer is to measure pore water pressure beneath the ground surface. It provides significant advantages in terms of time, resources and cost reduction related to installation, while providing quick and reliable reading at various depths. The multi-level piezometer allows the customer to define sensor spacing along the readout cable providing precise depth control based on site specific requirements. Junctions between each piezometer and the main cable are reinforced using epoxy resin for a waterproof and durable seal. The time proven design of the PW-series sensors allows them to be tied to the multi-level piezometer core cable and provide very reliable long-term performance. The sensor wire is fabricated using proven methods for ensuring an exceptional long-term stability. It is isolated in a vacuum sealed chamber to protect against corrosion. A gas filled spark gap integrated into each sensor protects against electromagnetic surges and radio frequency interference. A triple watertight barrier is installed at the cable end to prevent water infiltration to the sensor core. To this day, thousands of PW sensors have been installed and operate throughout the world.

Datasheet

Holiday Greetings

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 10:49:58 +0000

December 21, 2011

With the end of 2011 nearly here, I really want to thank all our Partners and valuable Customers for their continued business and support during the last year. It has been an exciting year for us with the arrival of new owners, new sister companies and expanded product lines. I am confident 2012 will bring even more innovation and growth to our business.

Our entire organization joins in sending Holiday greetings and best wishes for the New Year.

François Cordeau
President and CEO

Salt Cavern Monitoring System for Early Warning of Sinkhole Formation - Paper published in Geotechnical News

annick.beaulieu@roctest.com — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 15:41:41 +0000

December 20, 2011

Read Paper

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 12 2011

Daniele Inaudi — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 10:45:17 +0000

December 15, 2011

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 12 2011)

Contents:
- FOP-MicroPZ - The Smallest Piezometer
- SHM of the Brammen Terminal quay wall in Rotterdam
- Word from the President
- Exhibits and Webinars schedule

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 11 2011

Daniele Inaudi — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 10:42:14 +0000

November 11, 2011

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 11 2011)

Contents:
- PISA-M: The new In-Place-Inclinometer (Datasheet)
- Application: Felsenau viaduct in Bern
- Exhibits and Webinars schedule

New Convex-D Convergence meter released

Daniele Inaudi — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:22:32 +0000

October 31, 2011

The Roctest Group has just released its new CONVEX-D digital tape extensometer, which quickly and accurately measures relative distance changes between two reference points in any orientation. The CONVEX-D is a lightweight and dust proof portable device that has a robust and reliable construction. It is also an essential measuring tool that can be used to monitor applications like mine roof sags, tunnel convergence, dam slope stability and sheet piling deformation. The CONVEX-D is also a "design as you monitor" approach measuring tool, and is compliant with the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM). This new instrument incorporates several improved features in comparison to older analogue CONVEX and other convergence measuring instruments available on the market. Among these improvements, which have been designed keeping in mind easier handling for the end-user, you will find: a new pivoting hook that positively locks on tape, a rugged rotary protection drum that allows quick access to function buttons of the new added digital display, and an anti-backlash mechanism to ensure a reliable and a repeatable accuracy for long-term repetability and durability. The CONVEX-D is offered in two versions in order to meet customer needs. There is the anodized aluminum construction offered as the standard model and an even more robust construction, all stainless-steel, for coal mines or other types of harsh environments.

For more information about this product, contact us to discuss how this product could be used for your specific needs and applications.

CONVEX-D Datasheet

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 10 2011

Daniele Inaudi — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:49:20 +0000

October 7, 2011

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 10 2011)

Contents:
- New CONVEX-D digital tape extensometer
- Detection and localization of tunnel movements with distributed optical fiber sensors
- Strain monitoring on a pipeline crossing the Calaveras fault zone in California
- Exhibits and Webinars schedule

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 09 2011

Daniele Inaudi — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:39:47 +0000

September 8, 2011

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 09 2011)

Contents:
- SMARTape II distributed strain sensor
- Leak detection of toxic chemicals
- Nova Metrix LLC acquires Sensornet Ltd.
- Exhibits and Webinars schedule

Nova Metrix LLC completes acquisition of Sensornet Ltd.

annick.beaulieu@roctest.com — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:40:52 +0000

September 6, 2011

On August 31, 2011, Nova Metrix LLC (Nova Metrix) announced the acquisition of Sensornet Ltd. (Sensornet) based in Elstree, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. Sensornet provides the world’s most advanced asset monitoring solutions using real-time distributed temperature and strain measuring systems.” With this addition to the Nova Metrix portfolio, we’re able to further enhance our range of asset monitoring products and services by strengthening and consolidating common technologies with existing portfolio companies such as Roctest Ltd. and Durham Geo Enterprises, Inc.” said Jim Barbookles, Chairman and CEO of Nova Metrix. The In-Well Oil & Gas business of Sensornet is being retained by its former owner, Tendeka.

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 08 2011

Daniele Inaudi — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:46:01 +0000

August 9, 2011

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 08 2011)

Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter - Issue 06 2011

Daniele Inaudi — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:45:55 +0000

June 27, 2011

Read the latest Roctest Smartec Telemac Newsletter (Issue 06 2011)

Geomation Solar Panels and Radio Communication Datasheets

Daniele Inaudi — Tue, 31 May 2011 09:14:05 +0000

May 31, 2011

The Roctest Group has just released new Geomation datasheets. These new datasheets are mainly for solar panel and radio communication parts. Since Geomation’s products are design for autonomous and stand-alone applications, these features (power and communication) are critical, and therefore require specific parts in order to be compatible with Geomation line of products.

08.3440 - Geomation 1444 Radio Modem, VHF MURS
08.345A - Geomation 1150 SP24 24-Watt Solar Panel with Mounting Kit
08.345B - Geomation 1151 SP12 12-Watt Solar Panel with Mounting Kit
08.3460 - Geomation 1154 SPS12 12-Watt Solar Power System
08.3470 - Geomation 1159 SPSC Solar Power System Controller Open Frame

10,000th SOFO sensor produced at SMARTEC

Daniele Inaudi — Thu, 26 May 2011 12:59:50 +0000

May 26, 2011

SMARTEC is proud to announce the production of its 10,000th SOFO fiber optic sensor. Originally introduced in 1996, SOFO and MuST deformation sensors have been used in hundreds of projects to monitor strain and displacement in bridges, buildings, tunnels and many other types of structures. These large numbers of applications and sensors produced have clearly demonstrated the reliability performance of the SOFO technology. Sensors installed 15 years ago are still active today and are showing no sign of ageing or drift.

By a curious twist of fate, the 10’000th sensor is being delivered to EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology), where the SOFO system was originally developed in the early 1990s.

New Paper on SHM of High-Rise Buildings

Daniele Inaudi — Wed, 25 May 2011 14:37:04 +0000

May 25, 2011

Integrated Structural Health Monitoring Systems for High-Rise Buildings

by Daniele Inaudi and Roberto Walder,

Presented at the First Middle East Conference on Smart Monitoring Assessment and Rehabilitation of Civil Structures, 8-10 February 2011, Dubai, UAE

Abstract

High-rise buildings are complex structures. They are made of multiple elements and components that are stressed and interact with one another when exposed to internal and external actions. Buildings vary widely in size, geometry, structural system, construction material, and foundation characteristics. These attributes influence how a building performs when overcharged or when under stress of natural events. Structural Health Monitoring allows rapid and precise assessment of a building’s state of health and such approach is becoming recognized as a proper mean to increase the safety and optimize operational and maintenance activities of complex buildings. The data resulting from the monitoring program is used to improve the operation, the maintenance, the repair and the replacement of the structure based on reliable and objective data. Detection of ongoing damages can be used to discriminate deviations from the design performance.

When designing a Structural Health Monitoring system, one should always focus on the specific requirements of the structure under exam. This paper presents a 7-step systematic approach to the design and implementation of an optimized SHM system for a specific structure. When selecting the best sensors for the specific risks associated with a given structure, it is often necessary to combine different measurement technologies.

This paper presents a generalized architecture for SHM monitoring system combining multiple sensing technologies and several application examples to real buildings, including high-rise buildings, towers and arenas.

Read full paper

Product Update : TEXAM Pressuremeter

Daniele Inaudi — Wed, 18 May 2011 07:51:29 +0000

May 18, 2011

The TEXAM pressuremeter was originally developed by Roctest, in cooperation with the University of Texas, in the early 80’s. The main advantage of this pressuremeter is that it is completely mechanical, making it fully independent compared to the G-AM, which requires a nitrogen supply source.

Aging technology does not affect the principle of operation of the TEXAM, but the materials used, as well as the manufacturing techniques used thirty years ago, are now either obsolete or too expensive.

The purpose of the recent change was mainly to replace the analog gauges. Taking advantage of this change, the housing was also completely redesigned, thereby greatly simplifying the operation of the device. Here is a list of the major improvements:

Smaller housing; stronger, ergonomic carrying handles and fastening lid for easier handling.
Much easier saturation and testing procedure.
Retractable gauge for safer transportation and handling. If damaged, it can be easily replaced, in case of emergency at the site, by any other gauge, without the need for specific support or special connection.
Significant increase in accuracy with new digital manometer: 0.05% accuracy full scale. The resolution is also amplified with a reading in kPa.
A choice of 12 engineering units is possible with the digital gauge.

For more details :

Texam Pressurometer Datasheet

Texam Pressurometer Manual

EDF grants license to TELEMAC

Daniele Inaudi — Mon, 16 May 2011 13:06:27 +0000

May 16, 2011

TELEMAC has been licensed by EDF (Electricité de France) for the sales of monitoring equipment, including pendulum reading tables TVO, direct and inverted pendulums, flow measurement devices, VINCHON triaxial crackmeters, MPCF boxes and M-FAR adapters and INVAR extensometers.
Telemac is proud to continue its decade-long cooperation with EDF in the development, production and application of monitoring systems for dams and nuclear monitoring, as well as other applications.

Roctest Group Events 2011

Daniele Inaudi — Wed, 11 May 2011 16:28:59 +0000

May 11, 2011

We have updated the list of events where you will be able to meet us for the remaining part of 2011:

ICOLD, May 29-June 3, 2011, Lucerne, Switzerland
SMARTEC training courses for Partners, June 6-9, 2011, SMARTEC SA, Lugano-Manno, Switzerland
Solscope 2011, 9ème salon international de la Géotechnique de forage et des Fondations, June 22-23, 2011, Palais des congrès de Beaune, France
EuroDyn 2011, July 4-6, 2011, Leuven, Belgium
Geomation Training Course, July 13-15, 2011
CDCC 2011, The Fourth International Conference on Durability and Sustainability of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites for Construction, July 20-22, 2011, Loews Le Concorde Hotel, Quebec City, Quebec, CANADA
PROTECT2011 - 3rd International workshop on Performance, Protection & Strengthening of Structures under Extreme Loading, August 30 – September 1, 2011, Lugano, Switzerland
ASDSO Association of State Dam Safety Officials, September 25-29, 2011, Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Washington DC
Canadian Geotechnical Conference 2011 - PanAm/CGS 2011 Toronto, October 2-6, 2011, Sheraton Centre Hotel, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
CDA 2011 Canadian Dam Association Conference, October 15 - 20, 2011, Delta Fredericton Hotel and Fredericton Convention Centre, Fredericton, New Brunswick
ACI fall convention, October 16-20, 2011, Cincinnati, USA
Congrès International AFTES - Espaces souterrains de demain, October 17-19, 2011, Centre de congrès - Lyon, France
Pollutec, November 29 - December 2, 2011, Paris-Nord Villepinte, France
ISHMII 2011, December 4-12, 2011, Cancun, Mexico

More details and updates can be found on this page: http://www.roctest-group.com/corporate/events.