Using Aerial Infrared Thermography to Identify Seeps and Flows in Dam Inspections

Aerial Infrared and Photographic Surveys can be ortho-rectified and combined with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to greatly enhance the effectiveness of ongoing predictive/preventive maintenance programs designed to preserve the integrity of earthen dams and levees. These Aerial Surveys can accurately identify any leaks or breaches in dams, levees, and catch ponds, allowing the owner to address any possible risk areas before failures may occur. Geospatial information provided allows a technician on the ground to locate, document and sample specific locations in the water systems which may be indicative of leaks or seeps in the dam structure. Trending this information will pinpoint the areas of greatest concern and allow the owner to concentrate on early detection of possible dam failure points. By optimizing temperature, specific environmental conditions, vegetative cover, and water levels, the Infrared Survey will maximize the results needed to properly survey the entire dam system. Infrared Thermography is unique in that it can differentiate between wet areas and groundwater flow, as well as detect flows under water in lakes, rivers, and waterways. Cont.