A grouting project involves a large number of factors such as ground conditions, grout hole pattern, grouting sequence, grout pressure, flow and volume, and so on. If it were not for the computer, handling so many variables would occupy several engineers and draughtsmen and the analysis would still be only partial and, most importantly, slow. But today, the engineer is greatly helped by modern information technology. All grouting parameters can be handled and the grouting analysed and modified in real-time, while the grouting is in progress. At the design stage, computer aid concerns three families of parameters: - Ground characterisation: with an Enpasol recording of drilling parameters and a suitable computer code, the characteristics of the ground to be grouted are plotted on cross sectional views, used by the designer. - Grout hole pattern: the Castaur program (grout hole fan design aid) is used to optimise grout hole positioning with reference to parameters relative to geological formations, working room and buried obstacles. A 3D modeller creates a three-dimensional model from which grout hole fans are automatically generated. - Grouting criteria: all variables relevant to the grouting work are held in a relational database. Grouting criteria are entered (grout types, flows, pressures, quantities, etc.) and the computer generates the instructions to the grout pumps; although the human operator can of course amend these instructions at any time interactively. During the actual grouting, the computer controls the pumps. The pumps are fitted with grout pressure and flow sensors, and a central unit takes charge of acquiring all grouting data, corrections for head losses, real-time displays, pump control, etc. As each stage is grouted, a detailed report is compiled and stored on the hard disk for subsequent entry into the database of the grouting analysis program. The grouting analysis program compiles a full set of reports and displays, providing a day-by-day monitoring of the success of the grouting, in terms of quality, compliance with the specifications, works quantities and cost aspects.
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