The uplift pressure meter is used for monitoring uplift pressure of water in the foundation of dams and concrete structures and the stability of foundations of embankments in dams, tunnels and other underground works. It provides significant quantitative data on the magnitude and distribution of uplift pressure of water and its variations with time. It also provides the pattern of seepage, zones of potential piping and the effectiveness of seepage control measures undertaken.
The uplift pressure is measured mechanically by using a Bourdon pressure gage or electronically by using a vibrating wire uplift pressure meter.
The uplift pressure measuring device consists of a perforated/non-perforated pipe of 50 mm dia of adequate strength. The pipe is inserted in a drilled hole in the foundation from the instrumentation gallery to the required depth. To the other end of the pipe in the gallery is connected with the uplift pressure meter or a Bourdon pressure gage.The water oozing through internal pores or seams in rock formations of dam foundations, mass concrete /foundation soil of structures, reclaimed land soil etc. percolates upward through the pipe to the sensor, which is read by a portable indicator or logged by a datalogger with facility to transfer logged data to remote server.
