Bridgestone Rubber Dam Launch
Stratify
Fluid
I Grooming
Digestive
Translate
Volatile
Inflatable dams are becoming increasingly popular within waterways, due to their ability to deflate easily and quickly in order to prevent upstream flooding. The technology has been available for 30 years and more than 2,200 inflatable dams are in use around the world. The dams are best suited for small to medium-sized watercourses, where width is much greater than height. Compared to other adjustable dams, they allow for long spans with few structural piers, which ultimately reduces floodwater interference when the dam is deflated. Given the potentially temporary status of the dams they are suitable for a wide range of purposes, including hydroelectricity, groundwater recharge, water supply, flood control, irrigation, water treatment, tidal barriers and recreation. The Bridgestone rubber dams are made of heavy-duty Nylon-reinforced rubber, with an EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) cover to withstand ultraviolet light. Each section of the rubber is embedded with a fabric mesh and ceramic chips to resist tearing. The rubber also contains a self-sealing material for small holes. Once inflated, the dams can reach up to 20ft (6m) tall with spans over 60ft (18.2m). The thickness of bladder ranges from 9.5 – 25mm (0.4 –1in), depending upon the dam height. Each bladder has a thin fin on top, which spreads water flow evenly over the surface of the dam to prevent swaying of the bladder and possible tears. The fin structure also facilitates the flattening of the bladder during flood events. In some cases it is possible for people to enter into the bladder through an airtight chamber. Inflation and deflation can be manually or automatically controlled. With an upstream monitoring system detecting varying water levels, the automatic control system adjusts the air pressure in the dam to maintain the desired water level. The dams are anchored to a foundation using a simple clamping system composed of anchor bolts and steel clamping plates. Unlike steel gates, they can be installed in rivers with any side-slope angle, eliminating the necessity of adjusting the riverbank. Air is supplied using a low-pressure blower system. Because of the relatively few moving parts, inflatable dams are highly reliable and require little maintenance. Manufacturer: Bridgestone Industrial Products America, Inc.
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