GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING

Sigra has a capability in the geotechnical field extending through civil engineering, mining and wellbore stability. Sigra's rock mechanics capabilities are already described.

Sigra has particular expertise in slope stabilization design and in excavation stabilization through groundwater control.

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Field Services

Sigra can install and gather data from a range of field instrumentation including piezometers, extensiometers, and load cells. Information from these instruments can be gathered using Sigra's field data logging system. This can permit transmission of data back to any office.

The field data logging system is designed so that it can be used as a warning system. Thus changes in parameters such as piezometric level or movement can be detected on the basis of threshold, rate of change or a combination of the two. If a warning is triggered the system can be set to transmit this to an appropriate receiver. Thus the system is ideal for potential landslide site monitoring.

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Consulting

Sigra welcomes consulting tasks in the geotechnical area that require a high level of expertise and innovation especially where this requires the development of new techniques or equipment. The control of major landslides is a prime example of the company's expertise. Drawing D6 schematically shows the concept of horizontal drains. The company does not engage in standard design tasks such as those for small or medium building foundations or retaining walls.

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Equipment

Sigra supplies its field data logging system for various geotechnical monitoring tasks. It also manufactures packers that may be used for grouting or permeability testing.

Sigra's record-on-board rotary tool is a valuable ground investigation tool. It can be used to detect the ground being drilled.