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What is a Cofferdam in Construction?

In 539 B.C. the first cofferdam was built by King Cyrus of Persia to capture the city of Babylon. While modern dewatering efforts don’t usually concern advancing empires, the cofferdams used today are just as important for construction projects. That being said, the cofferdams used in construction look nothing like what the Persian empire had.

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If your construction site is near a body of water, chances are you need a water control solution. A cofferdam used in construction might vary in material and size, but the goal is to divert water from the worksite. By having a system to control nearby water, you can maintain a dry work area for your projects.

Defining a Cofferdam

A cofferdam is defined as a “watertight enclosure from which water is pumped to expose the bed of a body of water in order to permit the construction for a pier or other hydraulic work.” In other words, it’s a structure that is able to retain water and pump it out into a different area. Whether it stores water or pumps it in a different location, a cofferdam ensures a dry area for construction sites.

The Evolution of Dewatering

Throughout history, there have been a variety of cofferdams in existence. After those first earthen cofferdams created by the Persians, the Romans created their own cofferdam out of wood pilings. Fast forward to the 1880s, people started to use bags filled with sand to create temporary dams and flood protection.

During the early 1900s, engineers designed a cofferdam that has stood the test of time by using steel sheets. By creating ‘U’ shaped steel sheet piles, each piece was designed to interlock together to ward off water. Also called a cellular cofferdam, the sheet piles are able to form a single wall. Often used in dam construction, the circular arcs of the sheet piles can be used in a variety of water levels.

Introducing the Aqua-Barrier Inflatable Cofferdam

In 1996, innovation and technology collided to create the Aqua-Barrier cofferdam. Unlike past cofferdams, the Aqua-Barrier is an inflatable cofferdam with a patented internal baffle system. Besides being environmentally-friendly and easily transportable, the Aqua-Barrier gives construction sites unparalleled functionality. The quick and user-friendly installation allows construction projects a dewatering solution that doesn’t cut into the actual building phase. With an inflatable water dam, construction sites can save time and money.

Pro Tip: The Aqua-Barrier has no bounds regarding project size or application. Customize an inflatable cofferdam to meet the needs of your next project.

Protect Your Construction Sites

Does your construction site need an alternative dewatering solution? Our water-inflated dams have been designed with your projects in mind. Every Aqua-Barrier is equipped with durable materials that can be easily repaired and reused. We’re committed to providing a product that will create a dry site for each of your applications.

Are you ready to protect your construction site from nearby water? Connect with our sales team to customize an inflatable cofferdam for your next project.

Please give us a call at 936-372-1222 or toll-free at 800-245-0199 to get started.

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