Debris Flow Barrier

1. Can be installed across the channel individually or in a cascade.
2. The ring netting retains the solid component of the debris flow while freely draining the liquid component.
3. The lower opening allows for the unobstructed passage of base flow and wildlife.
4. Energy dissipators absorb the kinetic energy of the initial impact wave.
5. In wide valleys, the structure can be reinforced with intermediate supports.
6. Quick and easy installation compared to massive structures.
7. The transparent structure of the netting reduces the visual impact on the landscape.
8. Anti-corrosion protection ensures a barrier service life of 30-50 years.
9. Custom-manufactured and engineered for specific projects.

Purpose of the Debris Flow Barrier

Flexible debris flow barriers are classified as debris-retaining structures. The primary purpose of the design is to stop the debris flow and retain its solid component in the upstream reach.

Debris flow barriers can be installed across the channel either individually or as a cascade of barriers. The barriers are installed from one valley slope to the other. A clearance is left between the lower load-bearing cable of the barrier and the valley floor to allow the unobstructed passage of runoff and wildlife.

Structure

The main element of the Geo-Barrier is a ring net made of cable weaving with a tensile strength of up to 2300 kN/linear meter. The net is attached to the upper and lower load-bearing cables. The cables are tensioned via brake retarders to ground anchors grouted into the valley slopes.

Depending on the height of the barrier, intermediate cables are installed parallel to the load-bearing ones to reinforce the ring net. The brake retarders dissipate the kinetic energy of the initial impact wave and reduce the pull-out load on the ground anchors.

Operation and Maintenance

To protect against mechanical damage, the anchor heads are encased in a concrete shell. The ring structure of the net allows the liquid component of the debris flow to drain freely while retaining the solid component. In valleys wider than 15-20 m, additional intermediate supports are installed.

The main advantage of Geo-Barrier debris flow barriers is their quick and easy installation. The most complex stage is the drilling and installation of the anchors. Thanks to the transparent structure of the net, the barrier does not significantly detract from the visual appearance of the landscape. After a debris flow event, the deposits upstream of the barrier require clearing, and the barrier itself requires maintenance. As a rule, the brake retarders are completely replaced during maintenance.

Design

Flexible Geo-Barrier debris flow barriers are custom-made and built according to the project design. The design and structural calculations are based on properly conducted engineering surveys. In most cases, engineering protection of an area against debris flows involves a comprehensive set of measures: debris flow channels, stormwater drains, drainage systems, stabilizing retaining walls, and other solutions.

Geo-Barrier offers custom orders for a single debris flow barrier or a group of barriers, suitable for both small erosional gullies and wide mountain valleys.