Vibrating Wire Piezometer VWPs
Monitel is a premier provider of geotechnical instrumentation, specialising in accurate and reliable vibrating wire piezometer data. We leverage our extensive expertise and market-leading technologies to create geotechnical monitoring systems tailored to the characteristics of each project. From environmental management to dam construction and mining operations, our services encompass a wide range of applications and maintain the highest standards of safety and performance.
What is a Vibrating Wire Piezometer?
Known for its reliable long-term performance and suitability for demanding circumstances, a vibrating wire piezometer (VWP) measures pore water pressure. Importantly, these sensors are capable of real-time data monitoring, a clear advantage over methods that require manual data retrieval. With a VWP, project managers can enact quick responses to emerging issues and track emerging data over time.
This type of piezometer operates with a high tensile steel wire at one end. It is then attached to a diaphragm that deflects with pressure changes. The deflections alter the tension in the wire, causing resonant frequency changes that can in turn be converted into ‘digestible’ data. The frequency signal from a vibrating wire piezometer is exceptionally immune from cable effects, including length (up to several kilometres), splicing and moisture. This is a primary source of its reliability in geotechnical applications.
Our Vibrating Wire Piezometer Installation Process
Recognising that every site is defined by its nuances and intricacies, Monitel takes a careful and structured approach to installing vibrating wire piezometers. This ensures precise pore pressure monitoring for long-term projects.
The process begins with a detailed site assessment to understand subsurface conditions and identify optimal sensor placement depths. We then select the most appropriate VWP based on environmental conditions, pressure range and data requirements. Monitel is proudly brand and product agnostic, meaning we will always choose the sensor best suited to your site, not our interests.
Our team installs sensors using pre-approved methods such as grout-back or sand-and-bentonite seals, depending on regulatory and geotechnical context. We protect cables against environmental and mechanical damage with rugged casings. Each VWP is fully tested and calibrated before handover. If applicable, we can also integrate automated data logging and remote transmission systems fir real-time monitoring and reporting.
Monitel’s VWP Range
A robust vibrating wire piezometer with a stainless-steel body and thermistor for temperature compensation. Ideal for deep boreholes, tailings dams and long-term structural monitoring.
A fast, compact and fully encapsulated vibrating wire piezometer built for challenging site conditions. Suitable for smaller-diameter boreholes or installations requiring minimal footprint.
A compact 19 mm piezometer designed for high-accuracy pore pressure monitoring in saturated soils and rock, with built-in temperature compensation and surge protection.
VW High Temperature Piezometer
A specialist vibrating wire piezometer engineered for use in elevated temperature environments, such as buried industrial infrastructure or thermal processing sites. Offers stable performance under extreme conditions.
Applications for Vibrating Wire Piezometers
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Monitoring pore-water pressures to evaluate slope stability
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Monitoring pore pressures to check the performance of earth fill dams
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Monitoring containment systems at landfills and tailings dams
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Monitoring water levels in stilling basins, monitoring wells and standpipes
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Monitoring dewatering systems and wick drains also known as prefabricated vertical drains at construction sites
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Monitoring performance and investigating the stability of earth fill dams and embankments.
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Monitoring pressures behind retaining walls and diaphragm walls.
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Monitoring pore pressures during fill or excavation.
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Monitoring pore pressure in land reclamation applications.
Speak With Us About Geotechnical Engineering Solutions
Whether you’re monitoring a tailings dam, borehole or critical slope, the Monitel team has the technical expertise and field experience to deliver an effective solution. Using vibrating wire piezometers we can design and install effective systems that meet your site’s regulatory requirements, environmental challenges and long-term data needs.
If you would like to speak about implementing a geotechnical monitoring system on your project, you can contact Monitel on (08) 6219 8284 or at email admin@monitel.com.au.