Structural Health Monitoring and Geotechnical Instrumentation of the Porto Metro Extension

Applus+ provided comprehensive structural monitoring services throughout the project's lifecycle. These included the supply, installation, and maintenance of structural health monitoring systems, technical assistance, continuous data readings, and risk management. We monitored the structural behavior during the construction of the viaduct and tunnel, particularly during the necessary assembly and load testing phases.

The project was executed in multiple phases, each requiring a specialized team. The initial phase focused on planning and design, involving engineers and project managers. The subsequent installation and monitoring phases required skilled field technicians, IT specialists, and maintenance personnel to ensure the accurate implementation and functioning of the structural monitoring systems.

Applus+ installed and managed a range of advanced structural health monitoring systems such as extensometers, inclinometers, tiltmeters, standpipe piezometers, strain gauges, load cells, and vibration control systems. These instruments were strategically deployed to monitor critical structures, with a focus on the viaduct and tunnel, providing real-time data on structural integrity and performance. The use of fiber optic sensors for real-time data collection was particularly crucial in monitoring the viaduct's structural integrity.

The Yellow Line, operational since 2005, is a critical connection between Porto and Gaia, the two largest municipalities in the region. The line's extension by three kilometers addresses the growing demand for sustainable urban transportation, serving key areas.

The project was initiated to expand Metro's capacity and reach, particularly in underserved areas. The client required precise geotechnical and structural monitoring to ensure the safety and stability of the new infrastructure, including the construction of a complex viaduct and tunnel that posed significant geotechnical engineering challenges. Applus+ was brought on board to provide expert monitoring services to mitigate risks and ensure the successful completion of the extension. The 420-meter viaduct was built on pillars up to 22 meters high. The structure's assembly required innovative techniques, including sliding the 2,746-ton metal lattice along its base due to the difficulty of crane assembly. We employed advanced fiber optic sensors to ensure precise monitoring during these critical phases.

The monitoring system enhanced the project's overall safety, reduced risks, and contributed to the long-term sustainability and reliability of the infrastructure. By ensuring early detection of potential issues, Applus+ helped avoid costly delays and repairs, ultimately extending the lifespan of the assets.

To maintain the integrity of the monitoring system, Applus+ has established a post-project maintenance and support plan, ensuring the continued accuracy and reliability of the data collection.

The client expressed satisfaction with the precision and reliability of the monitoring services provided, acknowledging the critical role they played in the successful and safe execution of the Linha Amarela extension. With over 20 years of experience in infrastructure monitoring, Applus+ has built a solid reputation for reliability and accuracy. Our extensive portfolio of successful structural health monitoring works enables us to address each project's unique challenges.