CESI, through its subsidiary ISMES SpA, has completed a new phase of the monitoring system upgrade at the Itaipu Dam, following a 24-month project.
The work builds on the ADAS automatic monitoring system first installed by CESI in 2008. The latest upgrade was awarded through an international tender.
The project was coordinated and managed by Andrea Zattoni, Senior Expert in Monitoring Systems at CESI Consulting, who oversaw an international team of specialists.
The upgrade included the installation of 59 MEMS IPI inclinometric sensors for automatic, continuous measurements. According to CESI, this is the first application of the technology on a dam of this type in South America.
The monitoring system has been integrated with digital platforms that provide real-time data visualisation and support more detailed analysis of the dam’s performance.
The project also included the installation of 25 extensometers at depths of up to 93m, using approximately 3900m of measuring rods. In addition, 25 reinforced concrete monoliths were constructed to anchor the measuring heads.
The upgrade was completed in January 2026. CESI said the project was delivered in collaboration with the Itaipu technical team and Brazilian and Paraguayan partners, providing an upgraded monitoring system to support the long-term safety and operation of one of the world’s largest hydroelectric facilities.
