Scanning Sonar Creek Inspection

ROV Innovations have recently conducted a thorough scanning sonar inspection of a creek crossing in Victoria for Sterling Group and Victoria Rail. The Kongsberg MS1000 high resolution scanning sonar was used due to the high turbidity of the creek which prevented any sort of visual inspection from being carried out, either by a commercial dive team or ROV.

Kongsberg MS1000 scan of the creek bed showing rail footings and any debris.

The same scan taken with an increased range showing the upstream and downstream environment of the creek

Multiple imaging scans were taken within the creek to show the bottom topography and indicate if there were any buildup of debris around the rail footings, and also to highlight any possible scouring.

Due to the versatility of the Kongsberg MS1000 scanning sonar, creek profiles were also taken at multiple locations both longitudinally and transversely around the rail assets. This allowed a true profile of the area to be visualised, which in turn enabled the engineers to compile their structural report with an extremely high level of confidence

Longitudinal profile section of the rail bridge crossing

Transverse profile section of the rail bridge crossing

High end equipment such as the Kongsberg MS1000 High Resolution Scanning Sonar enable traditionally difficult areas to be inspected and surveyed underwater. Areas with zero visibility and high currents (most Australian rivers) have traditionally been inspected with divers "feeling" the areas around the asset. This leaves extremely high levels of variation and increases the chance that areas are missed. The Sonar ensures that 100% of the asset and surrounding environment is assessed and mapped for the client, with minimum time taken and minimal OH&S risk as no staff are physically in the water.

Sunday Creek, Victoria, showing the above water footings of the bridges

Field setup of sonar power supply and laptop running the MS1000 software

Thanks to David and Ben at Sterling for their assistance and hospitality, as well as Mark Atherton for his assistance with the MS1000

Contact us today to see how we can use our sonar and ROV solutions to assist with your next inspection.