What is Construction Dewatering? Methods & Benefits
Dewatering is the process of removing groundwater or surface water from a construction site using dewatering systems. The pumping process pumps water up through wells, wellpoints, eductors, or sumps installed in the ground. Temporary and permanent solutions are available.
Importance of Dewatering in Construction
Controlling groundwater in a construction project is critical to success. Water intrusion can threaten ground stability. The following are benefits of construction site dewatering:
Reduce costs & keep project on schedule
Prevents water from affecting jobsite and unexpected changes due to groundwater
Stable Worksite
Prepares soil for construction mitigating risks associated with running sand
Excavation Safety
Provides dry working conditions to ensure personnel safety
Dewatering Methods
Working with a groundwater control specialist is essential when designing a pump system for site dewatering. Improperly designed solutions can result in unwanted subsidence, erosion, or flooding. Professional engineers evaluate local hydrogeology and site conditions to engineer the most effective systems.
Wellpoint Systems
Consist of a series of wellpoints that connect to a common header pipe. The header system connects to a vacuum pump that draws groundwater up and discharges it.
Deep Well Systems
Consist of one or more individual wells. Each has a submersible pump that pumps out groundwater.
Eductor Systems
Wells are installed and connected to two parallel headers. One header is a high-pressure supply line, and the other is a low-pressure return line. Both run to a central pump station.
Open Sumping
Groundwater seeps into the excavation, where it’s collected in sumps and pumped away.
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