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Technical Manual: Conduits through Embankment Dams (FEMA 484)

Technical Manual: Conduits through Embankment Dams (FEMA 484)

Technical Manual: Conduits through Embankment Dams (FEMA 484)

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Chapter 9—Inspection and Assessment of Conduit-Related Problemsresolution hand-held video camera to documentconditions existing within the conduit. The videocamera can be either self-contained or configured fortopside viewing. A self-contained video camera isenclosed in a special waterproof case that allows foreasy operation by the diver. For topside viewing, acable is required from the camera to the monitorlocated on the top. Audio can be provided during therecording by the diver or topside personnel. Videocameras can also be mounted on the diver’s helmet. However, no matter how good the video camera’sresolution is, if visibility is poor, the camera will onlybe able to document a few square inches of surface atone time.Sometimes in pressurized conduits, it may be difficult for adiver to determine, if a defect is allowing water to leak<strong>through</strong> it. In these situations the diver may want torelease colored dyes (e.g., food coloring) and observe if itgets sucked into the defect. Another option would be theuse of a wand with a string or frayed rope attached to it. IfFigure 123.—Diverperforming an underwaterinspection.water is leaking out of the conduit the string or frayed rope would be sucked into thedefect (Stoessel, Dunkle, and Faulk, 2004, p. 2). Temporary repairs by the divers arepossible by plugging these defects with Oakum or similar materials. However, amore permanent repair will need to be considered.In certain situations, the combined use of divers and ROV or CCTV equipment maybe required to complete the conduit inspection. The divers are used to gain accessto the conduit and place the ROV or CCTV equipment in the proper location tobegin the inspection.For an example of an underwater conduit inspection, see the Salmon Lake Dam casehistory in appendix B.9.5.4.2 Climb inspectionAlthough not often required for conduits, a climbing team may be utilized toperform inspection of the inaccessible portions of intake towers and the walls ofterminal structures (figure 124).9.5.4.3 Remotely operated vehicleThe ROV was first developed for industrial purposes to inspect oil and gas pipelinesand offshore platforms. ROVs are now being utilized for underwater inspections of217

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