What is an inclinometer and what does it measure?

An inclinometer is a monitoring system used to measure lateral ground or structural displacements. It is installed in a borehole using a special grooved casing, and periodic readings show whether movement exists, at what depth it occurs and how it evolves over time.

In what situations are inclinometer installation and readings recommended?

They are recommended for landslides, slopes, embankments, excavations near buildings or utilities, retaining walls, diaphragm walls and deep foundations such as piles.

What deliverables do I receive after the readings?

Depending on the project, we provide tables and graphs showing displacement by depth, interpretation of the shear zone, comparisons between measurement campaigns and clear conclusions or observations to support design and construction decisions.

Inclinometer Installation & Readings – Monitoring Ground Movement and Lateral Displacements

Controlling Ground Movement Before It Becomes a Risk

Inclinometers are used for monitoring lateral displacements of the ground or structural elements such as retaining walls, support walls, piles or excavations. In practice, we can identify whether movement exists, at what depth it occurs and how it evolves over time.

When required, the service includes installation of the system in the borehole including grooved casing, alignment and fixing, as well as periodic measurement campaigns with clear data processing and reporting.

When Inclinometers Are Recommended

Common Applications

Inclinometers are an effective solution for:

Landslides – identifying the depth and thickness of the shear zone
Slopes, embankments and dikes – long-term stability monitoring
Excavations near buildings or utilities – controlling displacements that may affect nearby assets
Retaining walls and diaphragm walls – tracking structural behaviour
Deep foundations such as piles – deformation or bending under load conditions

In sensitive projects, readings are taken in campaigns such as weekly or monthly, or according to the monitoring plan established by the designer or client.

Field monitoring – inclinometer readings

What We Deliver

Deliverables are adapted to the project and the required level of monitoring. The goal is to provide clear, useful information, not just raw values.

Inclinometer System Installation (when required)

borehole check and installation conditions review
installation of grooved PVC casing with correct groove alignment
fixing and stability assurance using grout or fill as required
marking, top protection and preparation for measurements

Readings, Processing and Reporting

periodic readings using the inclinometer probe
tables and graphs showing displacement by depth and between campaigns
identification of the active shear zone and field observations
clear conclusions for design, execution and site decisions

Equipment Used

Inclinometer System (Probe + Graduated Cable)

For measurements, we use an inclinometer probe that follows the grooves of the casing and transmits values to the reading unit. Measurements are taken at controlled intervals, ensuring consistency and reliable comparison over time.

Graduated cables for precise depth control
Guide wheels that follow the casing grooves
Repeatable readings for accurate comparison between campaigns

Inclinometer reading equipment – probe and reel

Project Stages

Discussion and objective definition – we establish what needs to be monitored and how often readings should be taken
Installation plan – borehole position, depths, casing alignment and protective measures
Installation (optional) – casing installation and preparation for readings
Measurement campaigns – controlled readings at the agreed intervals
Processing and reporting – graphs, comparisons, observations and conclusions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the inclinometer measure the landslide directly?

It measures lateral displacement by depth. Based on the curve shape and its evolution over time, the active shear zone and the movement trend can be interpreted.

Can you perform readings only, without installation?

Yes. If the casing is already correctly installed, including grooves, alignment and protection, we can provide readings and reporting only.

How often should readings be taken?

It depends on the risk level and project stage such as excavation, stabilisation or post-execution monitoring. We can work in campaigns, for example weekly or monthly, or according to the designer’s plan.

Need field monitoring?

Send us the location and objective – we will propose the right solution

We will reply with the installation or reading steps, the recommended frequency and the expected deliverables.