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Water infrastructure assets—dams, reservoirs, and hydropower plants—are strategic projects of high importance. Their safety, operational performance, and long-term sustainability depend directly on the dynamic evolution of the underwater terrain over time.
Within this framework, using multibeam sonar systems have become an essential tool for technical documentation, preventive maintenance, and risk mitigation.
Why Is 3D Bathymetry So Important?
Traditional single-beam bathymetry provides limited, linear depth points. In contrast, 3D multibeam surveys capture the entire seabed surface, producing a high-accuracy Digital Terrain Model (DTM) and a complete three-dimensional representation of the underwater environment.
It offers
Accurate Mapping of the True Bottom Geometry
A full-surface model enables engineering teams to detect:
- Morphological changes
- Localized subsidence
- Sudden material displacement
- Hazardous “pockets” invisible to linear measurements
Sediment Analysis & Capacity Reduction Assessment
Over time, reservoirs accumulate transported sediments, reducing storage capacity and affecting hydraulic performance. 3D bathymetric surveys allow:
- Precise sediment volume calculations
- Identification of high-deposition zones
- Comparison with historical capacity curves
These insights are critical for dredging planning, operational optimization, and long-term asset management.
Safety Inspection of Structures & Inflow/Outflow Zones
Dams and hydraulic structures include intake tunnels, spillways, gates, and submerged conduits.
3D bathymetry provides:
- Detailed mapping around structural elements
- Scour detection near foundations
- Identification of obstructive materials
This supports structural integrity assessments and proactive maintenance strategies.
Long-Term Monitoring & Change Detection
Repeatable surveys at the same coordinates enable:
- Comparison with previous datasets
- Early detection of critical changes
- Risk prediction before escalation
This monitoring capability is particularly valuable after extreme weather events or flooding.
Applications in Critical Water Infrastructure
Dams & Reservoirs
- Monitoring total storage capacity
- Estimating sediment volumes and planning dredging works
- Detecting bottom instabilities
- Assessing structural stability near hydraulic works
Hydropower Plants
- Optimizing flow through accurate underwater terrain knowledge
- Early detection of material accumulation at intake/outlet zones
Rivers & River Dams
- Scour assessment around bridge foundations
- Monitoring morphological changes after floods or severe weather events
NORBIT Technology: Precision, Flexibility & Reliability
Multibeam echosounders from NORBIT (iWBMS and WINGHEAD series) are ideal for high-demand projects thanks to:
Compact and lightweight architecture
Easily deployable on small vessels or USVs, enabling surveys in confined environments such as dams, intake tunnels, and narrow channels.
Integrated GNSS/INS
Ensures high-accuracy georeferencing, even in challenging satellite conditions.
High resolution & uniform point density
Generates detailed 3D models suitable for volumetric analysis and micro-change detection.
Full compatibility with advanced processing software
Ensures a seamless workflow from data acquisition to final deliverables.
METRICA Services: From Data Acquisition to Technical Reporting
METRICA provides both the equipment and technical expertise to deliver:
- 3D bathymetric surveys in dams, reservoirs, and rivers
- Advanced data processing (DTMs, 3D models, volumetric calculations)
- Technical reports for studies, maintenance planning, and monitoring
- NORBIT equipment supply & specialized user support for in-house survey implementation.
Our objective is to deliver reliable, technically robust solutions that support informed decision-making and enhance infrastructure safety.
3D bathymetric surveys form the foundation for the safe and efficient operation of critical water infrastructure.
With advanced multibeam systems from NORBIT and the technical expertise of METRICA, asset owners and consultants now have access to high-precision tools for monitoring, analysis, and long-term infrastructure management.
FAQ:
What is 3D bathymetry?
It is the three-dimensional mapping of underwater terrain using multibeam sonar technology.
Why is it necessary for dams and reservoirs?
For sediment monitoring, scour detection, capacity assessment, and ensuring safe infrastructure operation.
What equipment does METRICA use?
High-precision multibeam sonar systems from NORBIT, suitable for demanding 3D bathymetric surveys. See our projects here.
For more information contact us at 210-2815440 or click on the following button
