Inspection and Maintenance of Concrete in Service.

A continuing inspection by nonoperating personnel was organized some 20 years ago to assess the condition of structures making up a large hydroelectric power system. The purpose of this program is to ensure that all structures are maintained in such condition that they can safely perform all functions for which they were designed. A secondary result of the inspection is the virtual elimination of major unforeseen maintenance expenditures. As a part of this service, the cause of the deterioration of structural materials is determined, if possible, before recommendations for repair complete with cost estimates are submitted to the owner. The program has been developed to such a stage that major items of concrete maintenance can be scheduled 5 years in advance, with a tentative schedule drawn up for the following 5 years. This paper is limited to methods of concrete inspection and maintenance. Methods of concrete repair found to be suitable in the area, which extends to the southerly limit of the boreal or northern climatic region, are described briefly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]