Tunnel Monitoring During Construction: Reducing Risks for Nearby Structures

Tunnel construction in an urban environment presents unique challenges, particularly concerning the safety and integrity of nearby structures.

Excavation and support processes can create ground movements with the potential to affect adjacent buildings and infrastructure. Implementing comprehensive tunnel monitoring during construction is essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the stability in the surrounding environment.

At Monitel, we create tailored structural monitoring systems that can help monitor the stability of a tunnel, whether it be under construction or in operation.

This article explains the importance of tunnel monitoring and how we create monitoring solutions. If you you would prefer to speak directly with a member of our team, you can contact us at admin@monitel.com.au or on (08) 6219 8284.

How Tunnel Construction Impacts Nearby Structures

Ground deformation can often occur during tunnel excavation, especially in soft ground or densely populated areas. This leads to settlement or heave that may adversely affect nearby structures.

Factors influencing ground movements include natural conditions, excavation methods and the effectiveness of chosen support systems.

Without proper monitoring and control, these ground movements can result in structural damage, serviceability issues or, in extreme cases, structural failure of adjacent buildings.​

The Monitoring Techniques and Technologies We Use

Monitel utilises several monitoring techniques assess and manage the effects of tunnel construction:

• Deformation Monitoring: This involves measuring ground movements and tunnel distortions (displacement, convergence and others).
• Structural Health Monitoring (SHM): SHM systems give continuous data on the condition of the tunnel and nearby structures. They analyse parameters like strain, tilt and vibration to detect risks and anomalies.
• Automated Monitoring Systems: Advanced technologies, such as wireless sensor networks, enable real-time data acquisition and analysis. These systems can trigger alerts when predefined thresholds are exceeded, allowing for immediate intervention to prevent damage to adjacent structures.

To view our range of sensors and monitoring equipment, click here.

How We Implement an Effective Structural Monitoring System

To effectively reduce risks to nearby structures during tunnel construction, Monitel takes the following steps:

1. Pre-Construction Assessment: We carry out thorough geotechnical investigations to understand the subsurface conditions and identify potential challenges.​
2. Customised Monitoring Plan: Develop a monitoring plan tailored to the specific project, considering factors such as tunnel depth, proximity to existing structures, and local geology.​
3. Integration of Monitoring Systems: Deploy appropriate monitoring instruments, ensuring seamless integration and data compatibility.​
4. Data Analysis and Interpretation: Establish protocols for real-time data analysis, enabling the prompt identification of trends or anomalies that may indicate emerging issues.​
5. Responsive Mitigation Measures: Create action plans for various scenarios, allowing for swift implementation of mitigation measures when necessary.​

Ensure Safety and Compliance with Monitel

During construction and operation, tunnel monitoring is essential for protecting nearby structures.

Real-time data solutions allow stakeholders to detect early warning signs of settlement, stress and deformation. Intervening to minimise this ground movement will ensure long-term project stability, prevent costly damage and ensure safety.

At Monitel, we provide tailored tunnel monitoring solutions, integrating advanced instrumentation, automated data systems and expert analysis.

Our technology and product agnostic approach ensures that the most effective and cost-efficient sensors are used on each project. We do not design our monitoring solutions around a company allegiance, but rather a commitment to creating the best system for your site.

If you’d like to discuss how Monitel can support your tunnel construction project with real-time monitoring solutions, contact our team at admin@monitel.com.au or (08) 6219 8284.