Dredging waterways to optimize functionality has traditionally been a challenging, labor-intensive process. Increasing depth or clearing sediments at the bottom of large areas of water necessitates the use of cofferdams to access and remove the earth below water. AquaDam® offers a flexible solution to dredging projects by creating temporary water-filled cofferdams for dredging construction. This innovative product provides an efficient, customizable method to create dry zones, facilitating successful dredging projects.

How Cofferdams Support Efficient Dredging Projects

Efficient dredging often begins with dewatering — the process of removing water to expose underwater silt and debris. Constructing cofferdams allows site managers to dewater for dredging using land-based equipment. Dry dredging methods are a superior alternative to traditional wet dredging, which lacks precision and causes turbidity, which may violate environmental regulations. 

Cofferdams are temporary watertight barriers around a worksite, facilitating work on exposed ground. Dredging operations using a cofferdam usually consist of three distinct steps: 

1. Isolating the work zone: The cofferdam must be positioned to enclose the area that needs to be dredged.
2. Dewatering the enclosed area: The water inside the enclosed space must be pumped out to expose the ground.
3. Dredging the site: The site can then be dredged using equipment such as bulldozers and front-end loaders to expedite operations and complete the project. 

Traditionally, constructing cofferdams was expensive and labor-intensive, using bulky materials like steel sheet piling or soil. Modern dredging operators have an alternative that offers superior water management across multiple applications. AquaDam® creates a stable cofferdam enclosure that can be deployed in less time than other methods and removed at the end of the project with minimal impact on the environment. 

AquaDam® Customizable Cofferdam Solutions for Dredging Operations

AquaDam® offers a cost-effective, portable alternative to creating cofferdams using modern materials and a science-based approach. Manufactured from virgin resin, high-grade polyethylene and polypropylene, AquaDam® has almost no impact on water quality where it is used. Its future-forward design means it can be strategically positioned before being filled with water, creating a sturdy barrier that supports dewatering.

Key benefits of AquaDam® cofferdams include:

• Portability: Empty units are lightweight and can be transported to any worksite before being filled with on-site water to create an enclosed space.
• Cost-effective deployment: The system requires minimal labor, reducing project costs compared to traditional methods involving intensive construction.
• No waste after removal: Made from materials that conform to the EPA’s Clean Water Act, the cofferdam is completely removed after use, leaving no waste or debris behind.
• Customizable positioning: Individual sections can be arranged in curves or connected with patented coupling collars, allowing the barrier to conform to any site layout and isolate extensive areas for dredging.
• Scalability: Available in various heights and continuous lengths, the system is fully scalable to meet the requirements of any project, from small-scale dam dredging to major canal excavations.

Dewater for Dredging With AquaDam®

AquaDam® is a proven, adaptable system ideal for creating cofferdams to support dry, efficient dredging. For over 30 years, this innovative solution has demonstrated its value in isolating work areas in ponds, canals and waterways.

AquaDam® can be delivered nationwide and used in fresh and saltwater dredging applications. Contact us to learn more about AquaDam® or to request a free quote.