Case Studies
J.S. Held Acquires Technorm, Québec’s Leading Forensic, Building Safety & Compliance Experts
Read MoreAn insurer engaged J.S. Held to assess the extent of damage to a penstock at a hydroelectric power plant in Peru and determine whether it was a total loss of 700 ft of pipeline. Upon thorough analysis, we determined that the deformations caused by the landslide did not result in significant damage, and the penstock could be reused. However, a short section was damaged by rock falls that punctured the surface and needed to be replaced. We accompanied the insurer’s lawyers during ongoing arbitration proceedings to provide our expert analysis and support.
We conducted a comprehensive analysis to assess the penstock’s condition following the incident. Our analysis involved utilizing finite element modeling to determine if the deformations caused by the landslide had generated stresses on the pipe, ultimately leading to its failure. Furthermore, we performed a rockfall impact analysis to determine the minimum rock size that could potentially perforate the pipe wall. We provided a visual representation of the event by creating a 3D graphic animation, which simulated the occurrence of the incident. This animation was presented to the court during the arbitration process, allowing for a clear and comprehensive understanding of the sequence of events and the impact on the penstock.
Diego Bonnett
Professional Engineer - FA&E Regional Director
Forensic Architecture & Engineering Practice
+1 407 753 1369
[email protected]
Guillermo Carvajal Campo
Project Engineer
Forensic Architecture & Engineering Practice
[email protected]
> Building Failure & Collapse Analysis
J.S. Held forensic experts investigate failures that occur during the course of construction or service life of the structure. We conduct thorough assessments to collect and analyze the information necessary to determine the cause(s) of the failure and collapse. Our team is also equipped to provide detailed 3D finite element models that depict locations, extent, and severity of the structure's condition and behavior.
> Structural Engineering
Our team is composed of civil and structural engineers who specialize in forensic investigations, repair scopes, code upgrade/compliance evaluations, and repair plans. We provide detailed forensic analysis of property and infrastructure damage by leveraging our understanding of the built environment and the impact of wind, water, fire, deterioration, construction defects, and outside forces.
> Visualization & Reconstruction Services
J.S. Held’s forensic visualization experts specialize in the production of animations, graphics, interactive media, and virtual reality environments that communicate complex concepts in a simple form. Our findings and results are represented though graphics, animations, physical models, interactive exhibits, and 3D visualizations to clearly and concisely explain our conclusions.