Piezometers (DWLR): Types, Functions, & How it Works? piezometer-types-how-it-works Piezometers (also Known as Digital water Level Recorder) are the geotechnical sensors that are used to measure pore water pressure (piezometric level) in the ground. It is designed to measure pore water pressure in the soil, earth/rock fills, foundations and concrete structures. The piezometer or pore pressure meter provides significant quantitative data on the magnitude and distribution of pore pressure and its variations with time. It also helps in evaluating the pattern of seepage, zones of potential piping and the effectiveness of seepage control measures undertaken. Considered as one of the most important geotechnical monitoring instrument, it’s interesting to study as well. Let’s discuss more about piezometer, their types, working principle, applications, and function in detail. What is a Piezometer? Piezometers or pore pressure meters are the pressure transducers that are installed beneath the ground to measure the sub-surface piezometric level within groundwater level, soil, or rock. Proper evaluation of pore pressure helps in monitoring the behavior after construction and indicates potentially dangerous conditions that may adversely affect the stability of the structure, its foundation and appurtenant. It also provides basic data for design improvement that will promote safer and more economical design and construction. The Casagrande piezometer is considered as the simplest form of piezometer. It consists of a Casagrande tip connected to the lengths of the extension pipe. The water level inside the pipe is measured using the dipmeter. However, the vibrating wire piezometer is most commonly used because of accurate results and higher reliability. Why is piezometer used? The use of piezometer has following purposes: To study the effect of water in pores of soil or rock is to reduce load bearing capacity of soil or rock. Effect is more pronounced with higher pore water pressure leading eventually in some cases to total failure of load bearing capacity of the soil. To determine level and flow pattern of ground water To determine the flow pattern of water in earth/rock fill, concrete dams, and their foundations. To delineate the phreatic line. Allegiance Water Management www.allegianceindia.in