Quality Assurance of ground improvement using down-hole video techniques

Derek Avalle

Verification of ground improvement is a topic of on-going debate. The tried and tested methods are limited in certain conditions and the geotechnical fraternity is always exploring new avenues for verification. The use of down-hole cameras has become far more readily available as the technology advances and the camera size decreases.

This presentation highlights the physical examination using down-hole cameras as an important contributor to the Quality Assurance/Quality Control process, and case studies are presented showing the benefits of this system.

Speaker biography

Derek Avalle is a geotechnical engineer with more than 35 years’ experience. He’s a graduate of Witwatersrand University in South Africa, and came to Australia in 1978. He lived and worked in Adelaide until 1989, followed by periods in Sydney and in the UK, working in consulting and teaching. Since 2003, he has focused on ground improvement contracting. He was involved with rolling dynamic compaction (impact rolling) for several years with Broons, and, in 2010 he joined the Business Development team at Keller Ground Engineering.

Verification of ground improvement is a topic of on-going debate. The tried and tested methods are limited in certain conditions and the geotechnical fraternity is always exploring new avenues for verification. The use of down-hole cameras has become far more readily available as the technology advances and the camera size decreases. This presentation highlights the physical examination using down-hole cameras as an important contributor to the Quality Assurance/Quality Control process, and case studies are presented showing the benefits of this system.

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