Jet Grouting is a complex ground improvement technique where small variations in operating parameters can have a significant impact on the final result.
But how can contractors make sure that the work is being carried out according to project specifications?
The answer starts with real-time monitoring.
A Jet Grouting datalogger can continuously measure and record the key parameters of the operation, helping operators detect anomalies as they happen and providing a complete record of the work performed.
What can go wrong during Jet Grouting?
During Jet Grouting, several parameters must work together correctly.
The rod must rise at the correct speed. Rotation must follow the required settings. Cement grout must be injected at the correct pressure and flow rate.
If one of these parameters changes unexpectedly, the quality of the treated column can be affected.
For example, imagine that the grout pump stops while the drilling rod continues to rise.
The rod movement may continue, but without the required cement injection. This can create a discontinuity in the treated column and compromise the result of the operation.
This is one of the situations that real-time monitoring can help prevent.
Why monitor Jet Grouting parameters?
A Jet Grouting operation generates a large amount of technical data.
Some of the most important parameters include:
- drilling and injection depth;
- mast inclination;
- rod lifting speed;
- rod rotation speed;
- rotation torque;
- feed force;
- grout pressure;
- air pressure;
- water pressure;
- grout flow rate;
- water flow rate;
- injected grout volume;
- injection time and duration.
A professional Jet Grouting datalogger collects these parameters through dedicated sensors and makes them available to the operator during the operation.
This means that the operator does not have to wait until the end of the job to discover that a parameter was outside the expected range.
Real-time monitoring can make the difference
Recording data after the operation is useful.
Monitoring data during the operation can be even more valuable.
With real-time data visualization, operators can immediately see the main parameters of the Jet Grouting process and compare the actual operation with the required settings.
DAT instruments’ DAT TinyLog and DAT WideLog dataloggers, for example, record the main operating parameters and display them in real time directly on their colour touch screens, using numerical values, gauges and graphs related to depth and other process data.
In addition, real-time remote data transfer is available, allowing data recorded on site to be transmitted via Internet and made available to technical staff in the office while the work is being carried out.
This approach turns the data logger from a simple recording device into a tool for real-time process monitoring and control, both on site and remotely.
From monitoring to automatic control
The most advanced Jet Grouting data loggers can do more than simply display and record data.
They can also support the automation of the operation.
The JET 4000 AME / J can automatically manage functions such as rod ascent and rotation according to predefined parameters. It can also automatically start or stop recording and manage rod ascent step times.
This can help reduce the risk of variations caused by manual operation and make the execution of the treatment more consistent.
In other words, the objective is not simply to collect more data.
The objective is to use data to improve control over the process.
Complete records for every Jet Grouting operation
There is another important advantage to using a Jet Grouting data logger: traceability.
At the end of the operation, the contractor can have a detailed record of the parameters that were actually measured.
DAT instruments systems can transfer recorded data to a PC for processing, exporting and generating detailed reports.
This documentation can be useful when reporting completed works to clients, contractors or site supervision.
Instead of relying only on manual notes or operator recollection, the contractor can provide a structured record of the parameters recorded during the operation.
Choosing the right Jet Grouting data logger
Not every construction site has the same requirements.
The right system depends on the Jet Grouting technology being used, the parameters that need to be monitored and the level of automation required.
DAT instruments develops data loggers for different Jet Grouting applications, including single-fluid, double-fluid and triple-fluid systems. Its range also includes solutions for drilling, CFA, Deep Soil Mixing, Vibroflotation and other geotechnical and special foundation applications.
Are you looking for a data logging solution for your Jet Grouting application?
Contact DAT instruments to discuss your project and find the most suitable monitoring solution for your construction site.