Leakfinder: Infrared detection of leaks through the walls of deep underwater excavations- Progresses of an innovative detection method

摘要

Leaks through the wall of a submerged excavation are more than often extremely difficult to detect and to pinpoint. The "Leak-finder" is an innovative detection method that provides an answer to this problem. The method is based upon the detection of infrared radiations, and uses the temperature difference between the water within the excavation pit and the water table. The necessary condition for this detection method is that the water has to flow from the outside to the inside of the excavation. This method has been developed within the scope of the new "North-south" metro junction in Amsterdam and successfully tested in the Netherlands, thereafter allowing the excavation to be safely dewatered.