The Vertical-Wall Inflatable Rubber Dam (commonly referred to as the Pillow-Type Rubber Dam) is engineered for hydraulic structures where both riverbanks are designed with vertical concrete sidewalls.
Unlike slope-type configurations, this model connects directly to straight abutments, allowing the dam body to expand in a smooth and symmetrical profile with reduced structural stress concentration.
The dam bag consists of:
High-tensile synthetic reinforcement fabric (load-bearing skeleton)
Vulcanized EPDM or Chloroprene rubber layers (sealing and protection)
Anchoring plate system integrated into foundation slab and sidewalls
It operates through air inflation, water inflation, or a combined system depending on engineering design.
When deflated, the membrane collapses flush to the riverbed, restoring the full flood discharge section without obstruction.
Structural Characteristics
Optimized for Vertical Abutments
This configuration is recommended when:
- Riverbanks are constructed with straight concrete walls
- Multi-span layout is required
- Bi-directional water retention is necessary
- Maximum discharge section is a priority
The internal stress of the rubber membrane remains perpendicular to the dam axis, meaning span length does not significantly affect structural behavior. Span dimensions are typically determined by transport, installation, and operational considerations rather than stress limits.
Key Performance Advantages
1️⃣ Smooth Inflation Profile
- Fewer wrinkles during expansion
- Reduced stress concentration points
- Improved long-term fatigue resistance
2️⃣ Large Flood Discharge Section
In multi-span projects:
- Smaller intermediate piers
- Larger effective overflow section
- Improved flood safety performance
3️⃣ Flexible Water Level Control
Water-filled systems allow:
- Adjustable overflow height
- Stable upstream level regulation
- Controlled flood release
4️⃣ Fast Construction Cycle
Typical installation time: 3–15 days
No need for:
- Heavy hoisting bridges
- Mechanical gate systems
- Large steel structures
Medium and small projects can often be constructed and commissioned within the same year.
Engineering Components
A complete vertical-wall rubber dam system includes:
- Rubber dam body
- Anchoring and sealing system
- Inflation / deflation system
- Monitoring and control system
Control modes can range from manual valve operation to fully automated PLC-based remote monitoring systems.
Simple Technical Specification Table
|
Item |
Specification |
|
Dam Type |
Vertical-Wall (Pillow Type) |
|
Structure Style |
Straight Abutment Connection |
|
Inflation Medium |
Air / Water / Hybrid |
|
Dam Height |
0.5 m – 7.0 m (Custom Design) |
|
Single Span Length |
Up to 120 m |
|
Rubber Material |
EPDM / Chloroprene |
|
Reinforcement Layer |
High-Strength Synthetic Fabric |
|
Anchoring Method |
Embedded Anchor Plate System |
|
Control System |
Manual / Semi-Automatic / PLC |
|
Installation Period |
3 – 15 Days |
|
Service Life |
20 – 30 Years |
Typical Application Areas
- River regulation projects
- Irrigation control systems
- Urban landscape water management
- Small hydropower diversion works
- Ecological restoration projects
- Municipal flood control engineering
Comparative Benefits Over Traditional Gates
|
Item |
Inflatable Rubber Dam |
Traditional Concrete / Steel Gate |
|
Structure |
Flexible rubber body |
Rigid concrete or steel structure |
|
Material Use |
Lower |
Higher |
|
Construction |
Simple foundation |
Complex civil works |
|
Installation Time |
Short |
Longer |
|
Project Cost |
Lower |
Higher |
|
Mechanical Parts |
Very few |
Many moving components |
|
Maintenance |
Easy |
More complex |
|
Flood Discharge |
Fully collapses to riverbed |
Structure remains in channel |
Request Engineering Proposal
We provide:
- Project-based structural design
- Dam height and span optimization
- Complete inflation and monitoring system
- Installation supervision
- After-sales technical service
Contact us for customized hydraulic engineering solutions tailored to your river structure.
FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between vertical-wall and slope-type rubber dams?
A: Vertical-wall dams connect to straight sidewalls and provide smoother expansion with reduced stress concentration. They are better suited for multi-span and bi-directional water control projects.
Q2: What inflation medium is recommended?
A: Air inflation is common for rapid response systems, while water-filled systems offer adjustable overflow control. Selection depends on project requirements.
Q3: What is the typical lifespan?
A: Under normal hydraulic conditions and proper maintenance, service life ranges from 20 to 30 years.
Q4: Is installation complicated?
A: No. Compared to steel gates, installation is simpler and faster. Most projects can be completed within two weeks.
Q5: Do you provide overseas technical support?
A: Yes. We offer remote engineering consultation and on-site technical guidance when required.
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