With the excavation of the final diaphragm of the natural tunnel on the new Chienes bypass (SS49 in Val Pusteria), the tunneling operations have reached their main milestone. GD Test, which managed the complex monitoring system both inside the tunnel and on the surface throughout all progress phases, continues to ensure structural control during the subsequent completion phase of the project.
This major infrastructure achievement, bringing the nearly 900-meter tunnel closer to full completion, received extensive coverage in the media, including RaiNews.
Even though the main excavation is complete, GD Test’s presence and operations continue uninterrupted: maintaining measurement continuity is vital while excavating emergency exits and pouring the final lining. The monitoring system involved the deployment of:
- Vibrometers: for continuous measurement of dynamic stress to protect structures.
- Incremental inclinometers and extensometers: for deep tracking of ground movement.
- Settlement gauges, crack meters, clinometers, and electrolevels: for structural monitoring and measuring the kinematics of surface buildings and structures.
- Surface reflector prisms and topographic sections (transverse and longitudinal) read by motorized total stations: for traceability and high-precision geometric surveying both inside the tunnel and outside, through continuous monitoring of potential ground and building displacement.
All acquired data is managed and analyzed in real time via a dedicated Web-GIS platform. This tool enables the GD Test team to continuously oversee measurements, offering concrete support for worker safety and environmental protection during this final, delicate construction phase.
