Construction projects near water have a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to protecting marine life and maintaining water quality. Some of the most effective solutions for managing sediment runoff are silt curtains - a floating barrier designed to contain disturbed particles and prevent them from spreading into surrounding waterways.
What is a Silt Curtain?
Also known as a turbidity or sediment curtain, a silk curtain consists of a robust floating boom at the surface and a weighted skirt that extends below the water to trap suspended particles. Its function is to slow the flow of water, giving sediment time to settle naturally and preventing it from spreading to surrounding areas.
Where are Turbidity Curtains Deployed?
Turbidity curtains are commonly used in the following industries that involve work near or in water, ensuring environmental regulations are met while protecting aquatic ecosystems.
- Marine construction: Preventing sediment disturbance during dredging, piling, or coastal development projects.
- Civil engineering: Protecting water quality during bridge, port, or dam construction.
- Dredging operations: Containing sediment during the removal of underwater materials.
- Coastal restoration: Preventing erosion and protecting sensitive marine environments.
- Oil spill response: Containing spills and preventing contaminants from spreading.
Understanding the Different Classes of Sediment Curtains
Different classes of sediment curtains are available to suit specific conditions depending on the environment and level of water movement.
Class 1: Low-Risk Applications
Class 1 curtains are designed for short-term use in calm waters with minimal wind or wave activity. They’re ideal for low-risk projects where sediment control is needed in still conditions, such as small ponds or enclosed marina areas.
Class 2: Medium-Risk Applications
Class 2 curtains are used in environments with moderate wind and water forces, such as rivers or calm harbours. They’re more durable than Class 1 and can handle skirt depths of up to 6 metres, making them practical for larger construction and dredging projects.
Class 3: High-Risk Applications
For projects exposed to stronger currents, open harbours, or river mouths, Class 3 curtains offer greater strength and durability. These curtains are built to withstand rougher conditions, with skirt depths extending up to 20 metres to contain sediment in high-energy environments.
Heavy Duty: Long-Term and Extreme Conditions
Heavy-duty sediment curtains are designed for long-term deployment in high-risk environments where strong winds, waves, and tidal forces are constant challenges. These curtains are built to endure harsh conditions while maintaining sediment containment for extended periods of time.
Sustainability Benefits
Turbidity curtains offer more than just sediment control; they play a vital role in long-term environmental sustainability. Preventing sediment from spreading helps safeguard delicate marine habitats, maintains water quality, and supports healthier aquatic ecosystems. Their use also ensures compliance with environmental regulations, allowing industries to operate responsibly while minimising their impact on surrounding waterways.
Why Turbidity Curtains are a Must-Have for Protecting Waterways
When selected and deployed correctly for the environment they are designed to manage, turbidity curtains provide a highly effective solution for sediment control. From small-scale civil projects to large marine developments, they help minimise environmental impacts while keeping waterways clear. Whether used for short-term containment in calm waters or long-term protection in more extreme conditions, the right solution allows construction and industrial projects to move forward without jeopardising the health of the marine environment.
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