The Beaver Flood and Storm Protection System is a modular, inflatable hose dam designed for rapid deployment in flood and storm protection scenarios. It is available in various types, including M1, M1XL, H1, M50, MXL80, and H100, each with specific characteristics and applications.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Beaver hose dam is to create a temporary barrier against rising water. It consists of interconnected, inflatable elements that are filled with water to form a stable and effective flood defense. The system is designed for quick setup and takedown, making it suitable for emergency situations. Its modular nature allows for flexible deployment in various lengths and configurations to suit different topographical conditions and protection requirements. The dam elements are laid out, inflated with air, connected, and then filled with water, while air is simultaneously released to achieve the correct shape and pressure. After use, the water is drained, the elements are dried, folded, and stored.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Inflation Pressure (Air): Max. low pressure of 0.1 bar for initial inflation.
- Internal Water Pressure: Max. internal water pressure of 0.2 bar during filling.
- Water Fountain Height (for pressure check): Must not exceed 0.5 m when checking filling pressure by holding up the hose.
- Modular Design: The system comprises individual dam elements that can be connected to form longer barriers.
- Material: While not explicitly stated, the visual evidence suggests a durable, flexible, and waterproof material suitable for outdoor use and water containment.
- Types: M1, M1XL, H1, M50, MXL80, H100, indicating different sizes, capacities, or specific design features for various applications.
Usage Features:
Setting Up (Deployment):
- Lay Out/Roll Out:
- Place dam elements in the target location.
- Loosen straps on the rolled-up elements.
- Roll out the dam elements along the desired path.
- Inflate (Air):
- Inflate dam elements with a special pump to a maximum low pressure of 0.1 bar. This initial air inflation helps the elements take shape and facilitates connection.
- Connect Elements:
- Connect the dam elements using straps after letting out some air. The straps should sag slightly, indicating proper tension.
- Move the dam into the required position, ensuring it is not dragged over the ground to prevent damage.
- Fill with Water:
- Connect a fire brigade hose (or similar water source) to the dam elements.
- Fill with water while simultaneously letting air out from the top openings.
- Fill both hoses at the same time, especially on inclined surfaces, to ensure even filling of side-by-side elements.
- Ensure hoses do not roll away during filling; support them if necessary.
- During Filling (Monitoring):
- When the dam element is half full, leave the cap open until water starts to escape, then close the cap.
- Carefully observe the filling process and immediately stop when the filling pressure is reached.
- The dam element should adopt an oval shape during this process.
- Close the Caps:
- Once the desired filling pressure is achieved, ensure all caps are securely closed.
- Check Filling Pressure:
- The maximum internal water pressure is 0.2 bar.
- To check, hold up the filling hose, remove the cap, and observe the water fountain height. It must not exceed 0.5 m. This provides a visual indicator of the internal pressure.
- Hose Support: The single hose must be supported on the land side (e.g., by a wall) to withstand water pressure and prevent it from rolling away.
- Stability Enhancement: If a third hose is placed on top, the system's stability and resistance to tipping are impaired. In such cases, position a sandbag every 2 meters on the land side to boost resistance to tipping over. This configuration should ONLY be used in extreme emergencies.
Taking Down (Disassembly):
- Drain Water:
- Open the clamping plates on the dam elements to allow the water to drain away.
- Fold / Roll Together:
- Once the Beaver hose dam element has been completely drained, dried, and cleaned, it is folded up.
- Tie Together:
- Tie up the folded hose dam with the provided straps for compact storage.
Maintenance Features:
- Damage Check: After use and during takedown, check for any damage to the hose dam. Any damage must be professionally repaired to ensure future effectiveness and safety.
- Cleaning: The dam elements should be cleaned after use.
- Drying: Thoroughly dry the dam elements after draining and cleaning to prevent mold or material degradation during storage.
- Storage: For detailed information about handling, maintenance, and storage, users are directed to refer to a separate data sheet, indicating that specific guidelines exist for preserving the system's longevity and performance.
The Beaver Flood and Storm Protection System is designed for ease of use, rapid deployment, and effective flood mitigation, emphasizing careful setup and maintenance for optimal performance and durability.