Skip to main content

Tunnel inspection investigation innovation in Japan

A new approach to tunnel inspection technology in Japan could yield major benefits in determining quality and safety. A team comprising specialists from Japan’s Institute for Laser Technology and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency is having evaluating the use of lasers for upgrading tunnel inspection methods as part of a two year research programme. The new technique is said to allow inspectors to examine tunnel wall conditions at a higher frequency of 25 times/second. The technology also allows tunnel wall
January 14, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
A new approach to tunnel inspection technology in Japan could yield major benefits in determining quality and safety. A team comprising specialists from Japan’s Institute for 3098 Laser Technology and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency is having evaluating the use of lasers for upgrading tunnel inspection methods as part of a two year research programme.

The new technique is said to allow inspectors to examine tunnel wall conditions at a higher frequency of 25 times/second. The technology also allows tunnel wall conditions to be inspected to a depth of 10cm under the surface. The new method uses a combination of laser technology and ultrasonic flaw detectors to evaluate conditions to greater depths than would previously have been possible.

Key features of the system include the use of a special lens as well as water-cooling in the laser to reduce heat generated by the equipment and boost performance.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Road milling advances from key players
    January 30, 2020
    Major manufacturers have introduced key innovations in milling, recycling and stabilisation
  • Key Qatar tunnel waterproofing project
    May 17, 2017
    Technology from Stirling Lloyd is being used to waterproof the recently constructed Lusail Tunnel in Qatar. The construction of the tunnel is a major project as it forms part of a new US$30 billion integrated transportation system in Qatar. The new Lusail CP07-C-1-A Commercial Boulevard, Road A3 Troughs, Underpass and Tunnel project is designed to provide a connection from the recently established Lusail City to the heart of Doha in Qatar. The cut and cover tunnel provides fast access to the new Lusail City
  • Doha’s massive ring road expressway project
    July 10, 2019
    The huge Doha ring road project will help decongest the city and improve transport for Qatar
  • Volvo CE develops efficient new soil compactors
    December 17, 2013
    Volvo CE’s redesigned soil compactors offer improved cab designs and better performance, while the firm is offering other glimpses of future technologies - Nick Johnson reports This summer marked the 55th anniversary of Volvo Days – an event that enables Volvo Construction Equipment customers to find out more about the company’s latest products and services. An impressive machine demonstration at the Volvo Customer Centre in Eskilstuna, Sweden provided the official launch for several new models, including s