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.