Dyrhoff UK Ltd applications

Inflatable dams and spillway gates are widely used by small hydro operators to provide pondage during dry seasons or as diversion weirs for run-of-the-river hydropower schemes. Our products are chosen because of the ease of installation, ease of operation and the low maintenance required. This reduces both capital and operational costs for the investor.

Rubber dams and pneumatic gates have a number of uses in flood management. They are an ideal replacement for hard structures such as stone weirs. During periods of high flow they can be deflated removing the obstruction which might cause flooding. Their low profile means that they look very similar to a weir once water is flowing over them.

The flushing of foul water from sewers into watercourses is a common problem during rainstorms. Rubber dams can be used to store excess water in the sewer and release it in a controlled manner once treatment facilities have sufficient capacity. Dyrhoff supplies specially-designed rubber dams suitable for circular and other shaped sewer systems. These can be used for either partial or complete sealing of the sewer. We have several years` experience of installing dams in sewers and can provide guidance on meeting the challenges involved.

Inflatable gates offer a simple way of creating a pond or lake area for recreational use or habitat restoration. With a waterline profile, they blend in with the local environment: there need be no structures that protrude above the level of the channel. As water flows over the dam or gate, it largely becomes hidden and resembles a weir or waterfall. As with other applications, the benefit is that the gate can be retracted during high rainfall periods to reduce flood risk. Dyrhoff has supplied dams to create urban water landscapes and as design features in business parks. The dams can be installed with fish passes and their low energy use, and lack of harmful lubricants, makes them an environmentally friendly option.

Dyrhoff has a special design for tidal rubber dams and gates. These may be used for many purposes, for example to prevent tidal inundation, to store tidal water for power generation or to provide impoundment in marinas and harbours. Dyrhoffs tidal dams have a unique shape and clamping arrangement that allows the dam to be operated with water flows from either direction. Our materials for these dams are tested against the effects of seawater.