Hydro-steel structure digital twins: Application in structural health monitoring and maintenance of large-scale reservoir

In the context of frequent accidents during hydro-steel structures (HSS) operations due to harsh environments and extended service conditions, a novel approach is proposed to reduce the frequency of structural failure incidents and ensure safe and reliable operation. The approach begins with introducing a comprehensive DT modeling framework. Subsequently, detailed DT modeling and DT-based SHM methods are developed. Finally, a platform with perception, interaction, analysis, and decision-making for intelligent health monitoring and maintenance of HSS is constructed and validated in China’s large-scale reservoir project, Luhun Reservoir. The platform includes functions of condition monitoring, fault feature recognition, health status assessment, and maintenance strategies optimization. The integration of DT technology has led to significant improvements in health monitoring and maintenance quality, which includes data collection, model optimization, comprehensive evaluation, and decision-making. This approach has also demonstrated its effectiveness by reducing the operation and maintenance response time and enhancing the overall efficiency and reliability.