Safety thanks to smart monitoring

In the Netherlands, many bridges, quay walls and buildings are under pressure. Not only are they reaching the end of their lifespan, external factors such as heavy traffic loads, construction activities and sagging soil conditions also play a role. Early detection of damage is then crucial. This is exactly where Alcedo makes a difference, with Structural Health Monitoring (SHM).

Because all these factors can cause invisible damage in the form of cracks, deformations or subsidence. SHM uses sensors and data analysis to track the behavior of structures in real time. Engineers thus get a direct view of the actual performance of a building or bridge. The result: abnormalities are spotted early, maintenance can be planned smarter and the life span of infrastructure is extended.

Alcedo is developing a robust SHM system that links various sensors to the online portal Frogwatch. Vibration, strain, temperature, slope and cracking are continuously recorded and analyzed. “By combining all the data, our SHM approach reveals the full picture of structural behavior during construction,” says engineer Mehdi Khajavi. “AI models, live visualizations and automatic alerts help engineers make informed decisions. In doing so, Alcedo goes beyond traditional monitoring.”

In construction projects, work often causes vibrations that can weaken neighboring structures. The Dutch SBR guidelines only measure the effect of vibrations, but not the structural response. Alcedo combines vibration data with other measurements to get a complete picture of what is really happening. This integrated monitoring allows timely identification of risks and safe continuation of projects.

In Zwolle, the sheet pile installation at the historic IJzerleeuw was supervised with a comprehensive SHM system. Thanks to real-time data, the safety of the monument could be guaranteed without unnecessary delays. On another project in Heerhugowaard, Alcedo supervised the Zakenstation complex, located right next to the construction pit for the Zuidtangent. Precise strain and temperature sensors recorded deformations, while AI analysis made abnormalities immediately visible.

Khajavi says, “The Oude Haagsebrug in Amsterdam was also successfully monitored during major demolition and construction work. Measurements on the bridge and surrounding buildings provided assurance that damage was prevented. Through skillful detection, major problems were avoided.”

With SHM, Alcedo shows that smart technology can make a difference in the GWW sector. Where traditional guidelines have limits, integrated monitoring provides certainty. Bridges, buildings and quay walls remain safe to use, even in complex urban environments. For contractors, clients and managers, this means that projects not only run faster and safer, but also that the future of vital infrastructure remains guaranteed.