ES&S together with its partner Smartec have the capability to design, install and commission fibre optic monitoring systems used for structural monitoring, pipeline leak detection, dam seepage, slope stability, open pit mines and land slides.

The biggest advantage distributed sensing has over conventional sensing is the ability to monitor thousands of points over a single fibre spanning kilometres. Fibre optic technology is passive meaning they are unaffected by transient currents and importantly unlikely to be damaged by lightening.

The use of discrete sensors on long pipelines or rail is practically impossible since it requires complex cabling and multiple data acquisition systems raising costs. With Fibre optic distributed sensing, monitoring becomes cost effective since the actual fibre is the sensor. Structural and functional monitoring can significantly improve the asset management and safety. Ultimately the safety is increased, maintenance costs are optimised and economic losses decreased.

ES&S aims to produce cost effective integrated systems which may include combining conventional sensors, fibre optics, vibrating wire and vibration monitoring. ES&S is a unique Australian company that has the expertise to provide such integrated systems.

Key benefits for monitoring are:

Monitoring insures long term quality
Allows structural management through improved maintenance and repair strategies
Optimisation of design through feedback leading to improved safety margins
Precise remediation reducing insurance premiums
Reduction of uncertainties
Increases safety and knowledge

The aim of structural monitoring is to provide real data regarding condition of the structure, its behaviour or response, monitoring its changes caused by loading, affects of aging and detection of new degradations. Ideally the best results are managed when monitoring systems are implemented during the construction phase providing information on the structures state, performance and evolution. Monitoring structures like bridges, towers, tunnels, buildings, power plants, dams, roads and harbours are of particular interest.

Pipelines & Rail