Implementation of a Web based platform for portfolio dam monitoring

For the efficient use of dam monitoring systems, the monitoring data has to be transformed into useful knowledge in order to give the dam owner valuable information about the safety status of his dams. This information should be updated and easily accessible for all technicians and engineers that are involved and responsible for the safety program and therefore directly linked to operation and emergency preparedness proceedings. In this article, the main functions of a web based software for the acquisition, processing and evaluation of monitoring data is described. It runs in a conventional internet browser and does not require any installation of additional software. It provides appropriate tools for carrying out both a continuous control of the safety status and a detailed analysis of dam behavior. In a case study, the experience gained during the implementation and more than 6 years of operation for the control of more than 50 dams of a Spanish public danr owner is shown. The implementation comprised a complete revision of the installed monitoring systems and recompilation of all available information. This was used as a basis for an updated and goal oriented definition of necessary variables, configuration of charts, SCADA views and threshold values. Theoretical and practical training of all stakeholders became a key aspect for a successful implementation. The dam owner could achieve a more efficient use of the installed monitoring system and improve considerably the elaboration of safety reviews and the safety status of his dams.

Keywords:

Dam Safety , Monitoring , Management , Instrumentation , Software