An inflatable cofferdam offers an efficient and effective way of controlling invasive water during floods. So, if you’re running a project that requires dewatering solutions, consider the inflatable cofferdam. We’ll show you how to use it. Keep reading to learn more!
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What are the steps to using an inflatable cofferdam?
Inflatable cofferdams have several applications. In most cases, it provides access to underwater areas during construction and maintenance. You can also use it for hazardous liquid containment and sediment retention in a sensitive work area.
Here are the factors to consider when using a cofferdam for dewatering solutions.
- Understanding Water Levels
- Obtaining Necessary Permits
- Hiring Experienced Contractors
- Removing Debris From The Site
- Determining the Type of Installation
1) Understanding the Water Levels
Water levels usually fluctuate from season to season. So, you need to review the timing of your project and plan accordingly. Consult the U.S. Geological Survey to figure out fluctuations in water level at the site and determine the best timing.
2) Obtaining Necessary Permits
Some of the essential permits you’ll need for a cofferdam project include contamination concerns, turbidity requirements, right-of-way restrictions, and time constraint permits. Thankfully, a project engineer can help you get the permits for dewatering solutions.
3) Hiring Experienced Contractors
Working with a contractor who has experience in dewatering construction can help you save time and money. Such contractors know what to do when invasive water floods the work area. Typically, they will deploy a water-inflated flood barrier for flood protection.
Pro Tip: It’s worth knowing the product specifications and making sure you meet dam size requirements before implementing the inflatable cofferdam.
4) Removing Debris From The Site
It’s imperative to remove all the surface debris that can puncture the water barrier’s plastic membrane. Ensure that the area you’ll install the flood barrier is free of sharp rocks, stumps, and rebar. If you don’t remove the debris, the following might happen:
- Inability to keep the water barrier inflated if there’s a large puncture
- Loss of inflation due to the small leaks in the barrier
- Reduced stability of the flood barrier
5) Determining the Type of Installation
There are three basic water barrier installation types, including dry surface installations, static-water installations, and dynamic water installations.
- Dry Surface Installation: The barriers get deployed in areas with no water in anticipation of flooding. You’ll simply roll the barriers and inflate them.
- Static-Water Installation: The barriers get installed in areas with non-moving water. The barriers float on the water’s surface during installation.
- Dynamic Water Installation: Water barriers get positioned on moving water by controlling the units’ ends using hydraulic equipment.
The Correct Way to Use an Inflatable Cofferdam
An inflatable cofferdam is an excellent alternative to a sheet pile. The inflatable dams are environment-friendly, cost-effective, and highly-efficient in controlling floodwaters. All you should do is consider the five factors discussed when considering a cofferdam.
Contact us to learn more about effective dewatering solutions in your project.
