3D Laser Scanning at Elan Valley Aqueduct, verification surveys

The Elan Valley Aqueduct is 73 miles long and was officially opened by King Edward VII in 1904. The aqueduct delivers water from the reservoirs in mid Wales to Frankley Reservoir on the edge of Birmingham.

Due to the precious nature of this asset, access for inspection is very limited and accurate plan information almost non-existent. Hence as part of their annual inspections Severn Trent have identified areas for increased structural analysis and as part of that requirement MK Surveys were commissioned to provide laser scanning of 6 areas within one on the deeper tunnel sections, with the aim of generating tunnel profiles at 5 metre intervals and highlighting areas of significant structural deformation. The work had to be completed within 3 days and involved 9 members of the MK Surveys team working 24 hours a day in 3 shifts. All staff on the project were already confined space and EUSR blue card holders, but had to receive further training in the use of 90 minute rebreathers due to the remote location of the work underground.

 

Elan Valley