Planar and horizontal drainage

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Planar and horizontal drainage

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Planar and horizontal drainage is a useful technique to consolidate soils weakened by the presence of water. Removing the water, by inserting a suitable drainage path can provide long-term improvements to that soil. Traditionally, drainage was provided by gravel or other natural materials. However, the long-term performance of gravels can be unknown or compromised. 

Modern solutions and materials. The modern solution is to use a drainage geocomposite; MacDrain® drains fluids underground from one place to another. Geotextiles attached to the drainage core on one or both sides stop the materials or soils from being drained and as a result, potentially clogging the drainage core or collection pipes. They are designed to replace traditional drainage materials such as gravels and sands.

Factors to consider. The selection of an appropriate MacDrain® for ‘horizontal’ or planar drainage geocomposite depends on a number of factors: 

  • The overburden expected 
  • The expected flow discharge required 
  • The type of material / soil to be drained (clean, contaminated etc.) 
  • Hydraulic gradient 
  • Dimensions of the area to be drained 

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Our state of the art software for resolving water-management challenges. Using our state of the art design software, MacFLOW, we assist clients in overcoming their water-management problems, helping to consolidate soils, and reducing settlements. The best value solution should not only address technical and economic problems, but also the installation speed and efficiency.