The Need for Water-Filled Cofferdams in Construction

In construction, cofferdams, sometimes called caissons, are commonly used for a range of applications. These structures are typically temporary, and they isolate a submerged work area to allow for work in dry conditions. Three types of cofferdams are used today — steel sheet pile, earth or gravel-filled and water-filled. Among these, the inflatable cofferdam, such as the AquaDam or Aqua Barrier Cofferdam, is an innovative water-filled cofferdam that offers the flexibility needed on construction sites for dewatering and flood control, acting as a highly effective temporary water dam.

How Does the AquaDam Work as Flood Control for Construction Sites?

AquaDam is a water-filled cofferdam perfect for providing flood control on construction sites. Its clever design features two water-tight polyethylene tubes enclosed within a woven outer sleeve, forming a robust but temporary water barrier. 

Working Mechanism: Once installed correctly, AquaDam can manage up to 75% of its height in water depth and external mud, working effectively as a temporary dam for various construction applications. Its design ensures that once filled with water, the product will not roll, offering a stable solution. 

Installation Process: Installation of the AquaDam involves unrolling it across the area where water control is needed. Pumps are used to fill the cofferdam with water available on-site. The option to choose from a variety of heights and lengths allows construction teams to find the right AquaDam or Aqua Barrier Cofferdam product for their unique project.

Cost-Effective and Environmentally Friendly: The AquaDam installation process is not only more cost-effective than traditional methods but also demands less effort. The design minimizes environmental impact by restricting contaminants that are often associated with other dam types. 

Stability and Flexibility: The unique side-by-side tube design of AquaDam offers superior stability compared to other water-filled cofferdams. Furthermore, the flexibility of the AquaDam ensures the product can conform to any path requirements, making it an exceptional choice for flood control in construction sites. 

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AquaDam Limitations

While the AquaDam is a reliable cofferdam for bridge construction, shoreline restoration, pipelines, culvert repairs, and more, it still has limitations. It is essential to understand what the AquaDam can achieve and how certain circumstances and environments may limit its capabilities.

Typically, the AquaDam can effectively control 75% of its height in water depth. This rating reduces in the following conditions:

• Slopes
• Vertical walls
• Mud
• Poly pond liners
• Oil-impregnated soils

The AquaDam can still function in these circumstances but may not offer the highest level of water depth control.

Other considerations for AquaDam use include:

• Excavation: The AquaDam and the soil it sits on must remain separate from any excavation activities to prevent breaking and shifting.
• Vandalism: This method of flood control for construction sites is vulnerable to vandalism. If established in a highly populated area, 24/7 surveillance may be required to prevent damage to the product.
• Reuse: After removing the AquaDam following a construction project, reuse may be possible if removal is handled delicately. However, reuse is not guaranteed. 
• Maintenance: To keep the AquaDam filled, periodic pumping maintenance may be required.

Cofferdam Construction Options

When using the AquaDam for construction projects, the team must first identify the maximum mud and water level that must be controlled throughout the project. It is best practice to select an AquaDam with a higher depth rating than expected to account for unexpected fluctuations in water levels.

Possible applications include:

• Bridge construction and repair: Infrastructure maintenance teams may need access to bridge parts under water. The AquaDam provides dewatering for easy access to these components. When structures need to be built from the ground up, AquaDam gives teams access to land below.
• Dredging: Teams may rely on the dredging process to clean up construction debris following a project. With the AquaDam, teams can dewater areas for easier removal of debris.
• Flood control: For construction sites, flooding can lead to significant disruptions and damage to work completed. The AquaDam can provide flood control in the event that water levels rise. 

In cases where dewatering is a requirement, construction teams can turn to AquaDam. 

Get More Information About the AquaDam

The AquaDam is a valuable product for construction teams in need of dewatering and flood control. With all the possible applications, AquaDam can support many different goals and project needs. Fill out the online contact form today for more information, or reach out to the AquaDam team at 1-800-682-9283.