Initial Data Collection from a Fiber-Optic-Based Dam Seepage Monitoring and Detection System
Abstract
Visual inspection is the most used method to detect seepage at dams. Early detection can be difficult with this method, and use of appropriate real time monitoring could significantly increase the chances of recognizing possible failure. Seepages can be identified by analyzing changes in water and soil temperature. Optical fiber placed at the embankments downstream toe has been proven to be an efficient means of detecting real time changes at short intervals over several kilometers. This study aims to demonstrate how temperatures measured using fiber optic distributed sensing can be used to monitor seepage at Moose Creek Dam, North Pole, Alaska. The fiber optic cable portion of the monitoring system is installed along a section of the embankment where sand boils have occurred. Though no flood event occurred during this monitoring period, routine pumping tests of nearby relief wells resulted in an increase of soil and water temperature (up to 13C) along a 100 m section where sand boils were detected during the 2014 flood events. Measurements during a flood event are expected to provide a quantitative assessment of seepage and its rate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 30, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1214039
Entities
People
- Anna M. Jordan
- Arthur B. Gelvin
- Chandler S. Engel
- Dan Forsland
- Johan Sundin
- Jon B. Maakestad
- Sam Johansson
- Thomas Coleman
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center