METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING THE INTEGRITY OF A STRUCTURE HAVING A SURFACE IN CONTACT WITH A LIQUID

摘要

A method and apparatus for monitoring the integrity of a surface (18) of a structure (10) immersed in a liquid comprises a fluid impervious cavity (24) formed along the surface (18) of the structure (10). The cavity (24) is in fluid communication via a duct (30) to a pressure equaliser (100) the pressure equaliser has an opening at substantially the same level as the cavity. A fluid is disposed within the cavity (24) and in fluid communication with the pressure equaliser. In the event of a crack developing along the surface (18) that extends into the cavity (24) liquid within which the surface (18) is immersed will flow into the cavity (24) and can be detected by various detection devices such as a liquid trap (90).