Structural health monitoring

Through structural monitoring of a variety of different types of infrastructures the aim is to check and maintain structural integrity, which is a core aspect of structural engineering.

There are several types of structural monitoring systems:

• Static Monitoring: measures long-term changes such as deformation and settlement.

• Dynamic Monitoring: observes short-term responses to dynamic forces like wind, earthquakes, temperature, or vibrations.

• Periodic Monitoring: involves scheduled inspections and measurements.

• Continuous Monitoring: provides real-time data collection, often used for critical infrastructure such as bridges.

• Remote Monitoring: utilises wireless sensors, satellites, or drones for monitoring inaccessible or large structures.

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is the process of continuously or periodically assessing the condition of structures to detect damage, deterioration, or stress. By catching the early warning signs of structural movements or structural changes, we support your engineering teams with making informed decisions when it comes to asset management.

To provide society with infrastructure like bridges, tunnels, buildings, dams and so on that are safe, perform well and are long-lasting, advanced sensing technology is vital. Sensors ensure quality data provision for data analysis and modelling.

Generally, the most common methods used are signal processing, machine learning, or statistical methods. Being able to provide structural analysis for damage detection, predictive maintenance, as well as information for asset management systems.

There is no single approach when it comes to the best structural monitoring systems for your project. Different infrastructure requires different monitoring systems. In bridge monitoring there would be an added aspect of geo-monitoring for example. This extends to deformation monitoring, vibration monitoring, manual monitoring and more.

By getting the structural monitoring systems in place, tracking real time alerts and early warnings of potential issues, we can create a safer environment for our teams and our communities.

Geo-monitoring refers to observations regarding geological conditions such as ground movement or surface deformation. Its subset is geotechnical monitoring which is, for example, used for offshore wind turbines.

Whereas structural monitoring refers to build structures to assess their integrity, detect damage, and ensure their safety and performance. Overtime, infrastructure weakens and construction may be required to keep structures operational. Monitoring solutions allow you to detect these warnings early and keep projects safe, profitable and well-maintained.

However, in certain projects you may require both. The bridge structural monitoring services mentioned above would require ongoing insights from both geotechnical and structural monitoring to determine safety.

Here some of the benefits and impacts that SHM using the lens of ESG:

Environmental: SHM helps reduce the environmental impact by continuously monitoring and providing ongoing insights to help teams optimise maintenance schedules. Overall, extending the lifespan of a structure and leading to resource conservation.

Social: SHM ensures public safety with real-time data providing early detection of structural damage and protects communities from building and structure failures.

Governance: SHM provides compliance with regulations, promoting transparency and accountability in managing infrastructure assets.