Inclinometer measuring points: Key technology for slopes at risk of landslides

Landslides endanger roads, railway lines and dams. Inclinometer measuring points provide reliable subsoil deformation data and enable early, comprehensible decisions to be made.
ICP Engineers GmbH - Member of the SIERA Alliance - combines geotechnical and environmental engineering in Rodenbach and its branches in Bitburg and Bad Bergzabern - with 30 employees at 3 locations and approx. 500 projects per year.

Why this is important

• Early detection of movements before visible damage
• Quantified shift rates with clear escalation levels
• Identification of active sliding surfaces and sliding depths
• Proof of effectiveness of safety measures

Construction of an inclinometer measuring point

1. Drilling & pipework - Drilling Ø ~70-100 mm in stable subsoil or through the assumed sliding joint; installation of grooved PVC/ABS pipes; annular space backfilling (cement/bentonite) for secure positive locking.
2. Probe & Baseline - Biaxial probe; create zero measurement, repeat measurements according to plan → trend analysis.
3. Profiles & thresholds - Integrate tendency to shift; link threshold values with measures (measurement rhythm, drainage, traffic control).

What ICP brings to monitoring projects The geotechnical engineering portfolio includes laboratory tests and quality assurance in earthworks as well as geological/hydrogeological investigations - a sound basis for diagnosis, verification and planning.

Typical fields of application

• Active/potential landslides and embankments
• Deep excavations and shoring
• Dams, dykes, dam bodies
• Long-term monitoring of refurbishments

Integrated monitoring for an overall view

Inclinometer plus Piezometer, Extensometer and surface surveys increase informative value and forecasting capability. ICP's broad range of services - from geotechnics to contaminated sites and environmental planning - facilitates approvals and reduces project risks.

Implementation: Checklist for operators & planners

• Define risk scenarios, acceptance criteria and response thresholds
• Set drilling points so that suspected shear zones are intersected
• Adapt measuring tube alignment, depth and backfilling to the layer sequence
• Reliable baselines; plan measurement rhythm (e.g. weekly → monthly)
• Shifts correlate with precipitation/groundwater
• QA/QC: Calibration, repeat measurements, independent testing

Reduce geotechnical risks with reliable monitoring. Talk to the geotechnics team at  ICP Engineers GmbH - Member of SIERA Allianz via a suitable inclinometer concept - Engineering for a Better Tomorrow.