Dewatering allows excavations to be made in both dry and stable conditions below the groundwater level, which is almost always required for construction projects. Pumping from wells or sumps and low permeability cutoff walls are both parts of a dewatering system, which is also known as groundwater control.
The reason optimization is necessary is because it will ensure that groundwater control will work effectively and only by proving this will the project be allowed to proceed. Groundwater control is one of the first geotechnical processes required for excavation projects, yet dewatering design does not provide many details in terms of geotechnical design codes, which is why optimization is necessary. Without it, groundwater control may not work the way you need it to and may cause delays, both of which can critically affect the construction of the project in its later stages.
When it comes to optimization, there are four approaches to dewatering design, and the first is known as empirical optimization used mostly for simple projects. This approach is based on experience as well as local knowledge that can be used for projects in which the hydrogeological conditions are pretty straightforward and environmental impacts are not really a concern. If the excavation is small and shallow, this approach is ideal and sewers, shallow basements, and pipeline projects are perfect examples where this method would be most effective.
The second approach is analytical optimization, which makes use of hydrogeological equations to estimate both pumped flow rates and drawdowns and is suitable for hydrogeological conditions that are simple and don’t have many complex boundaries. It’s important to note that if this method is used in the wrong conditions, it will result in very serious mistakes.
Numerical optimization is the third approach that uses two or three-dimensional numerical groundwater flow models that allows results to be demonstrated visually for clients who wish to get an idea of the project. This is possible through modern software and it allows the project manager to assess the effects that another dewatering project or nearby river can cause, for example. This approach will only be successful if all of the important features of the groundwater system are captured.
Observational optimization is the fourth approach that uses construction observations to design and refine a dewatering system. This approach is used during the construction process, which provides access to information that may not have been available to the initial designer. Dewatering well logs pumped flow rates and draw down water levels can all be reviewed to determine their effects on performance. It is essentially a way of troubleshooting to come up with an effective dewatering system that is suitable for both the conditions and the site.
Optimization helps reduce installation costs and allows projects to meet all of the regulatory requirements and Taber Solids Control in Edmonton can provide you with more information regarding this matter. Wastewater management, water treatment, and centrifuge rentals are just some of the things they can assist with, so give them a call to find out more!