15 dicembre 2023

Use of greenwall pvc sheet piles for the construction of hydraulic embankments

The embankment hydraulic diaphragms represent a fundamental element in hydraulic works and land management. These barriers, often built along the banks of rivers, canals or reservoirs, play a crucial role in preventing potential risks related to flooding, erosion and water resources management.

In the current engineering field, there are various solutions and techniques used in the creation of hydraulic diaphragms, but what is the best methodology?

Before examining in detail the different solutions proposed by the current market, let's try to better understand what hydraulic diaphragms are and what their key role is in the field of hydraulic and environmental safety.

WHAT ARE HYDRAULIC DIAPHRAGM DIAPHRAGMS AND WHAT ARE THEY USED FOR?

The embankment hydraulic diaphragms are structures designed to counteract and control the flow of water along the banks of watercourses, embankments , canals or lamination tanks/expansion tanks. Their main function is to prevent or limit damage caused by events such as flash floods, flooding or bank erosion.

Levee hydraulic diaphragms play a critical role in protecting surrounding areas from potential disasters caused by flash floods. They act as a real shield to reduce water filtration, preventing water from exceeding the banks and invading inhabited areas. Furthermore, these structures are essential for maintaining the stability of the banks, protecting the banks from the erosion that could occur due to the continuous flow of water.

An equally crucial aspect is their ability to contribute to the regulation of water flow, allowing for more controlled and sustainable management of water resources. The presence of hydraulic diaphragm walls not only prevents damage to communities and infrastructure, but also helps maintain environmental balance, protecting the surrounding ecosystems.

CONSTRUCTION OF HYDRAULIC EMPTY DIAPHRAGM BLOCKS: GREENWALL TECHNOLOGY AND USE OF ULTRA SEALING PVC SHEET PILES

Currently, one of the most used methods to seal the banks of dam reservoirs is the use of mixed cement-soil barriers with CDMM (Continuous Deep Mixing Method) Trencher technology. This solution offers several advantages in terms of installation speed and relatively low costs. However, it also has significant disadvantages, including the formation of seepage paths triggered by water migration, resulting from the difference in water levels on opposite sides of the embankment.

Among the methodologies currently in use, the innovative technology proposed by GreenWall stands out, which stands out for its effectiveness, speed of installation and cost reduction.

In fact, to overcome the limitations of traditional technology, GreenWall proposes a revolutionary approach through the use of Ultra Sealing PVC sheet piles. This innovative solution is based on the direct installation / driving of vinyl sheet piles into the ground, creating an effective and long-lasting hydraulic partition.

ALL THE ADVANTAGES OF GREENWALL TECHNOLOGY IN THE CREATION OF HYDRAULIC DIAPHRAGM BLOCKS

  • Speed of installation and ease of use: The construction of the partition wall with PVC sheet piles is just as fast as in the case of CDMM/Trenchmix mixed cement-soil barriers. Thanks to the Guide sheet piles/mother sheet piles supplied by GreenWall, installation is quick and hassle-free.

  • Elimination of hydraulic filtration effect: thanks to Greenwall Ultra Sealing PVC sheet piles with integrated seals act as a damper, immediately closing the migration path of high pressure water. This mechanism prevents water from permeating towards the opposite side of the embankment, eliminating the hydraulic filtration effect.

  • Certified hydraulic conductivity: Thanks to GreenWall's innovative Ultra Sealing system, it is possible to achieve a certified hydraulic conductivity equal to k=8.8*10-12, as confirmed by the Polytechnic Institute of Milan 1863.

  • Limited depth: The only limiting factor in the use of PVC sheet piles is the depth, as it allows the installation of profiles that do not exceed 12-13 meters in length in standard soil conditions.

FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF HYDRAULIC DIAPHRAGM BLOCKS CHOOSE GREENWALL

Ultra Sealing PVC sheet piles, with integrated seals, create an airtight and resistant barrier. The rapid installation, the reduction of long-term operating costs and the hydraulic conductivity certification give this solution an important role in the creation of advanced and sustainable hydraulic works.

Contact us to receive more information on GreenWall PVC sheet piles or for a detailed quote.