ARTIFICIAL TUNNELS WATERPROOFING and DRAINING

These kinds of tunnels are very common constructions in civil engineering. The waterproofing process requires a good previous analysis and an excellent setting up.

The later refilling with material coming from the excavation makes it very important to consider the impact penetration hardness of the whole system.

We commonly use bituminous materials, or synthetic ones such as polyvinyl chloride or high-density polyethylene sheets. We combine them with geotextile fabrics with high impact penetration hardness to avoid damages during the refilling activity.

We are experts on the previous analysis and implementation of this kind of systems, therefore we can guarantee we will sort out and propose the best solution in each case.

In many constructions, it is very usual to find draining systems made of geosynthetic fabrics.

This kind of sheet membranes, quickly drain water and moisture from the surface of the tunnel, preventing water ingress. It is absolutely necessary to treat all the seams to get a good watertightness. For that sealing work, we commonly use bituminous sheets and mastics.

It is extremely important to previously calculate the volume of water to be drained per unit of time, as well as the weight of the cover upon the geosynthetic material. Not all membranes support the same pressure, and not all of them drain the same flow of water according to the pressure supported. Not considering this important matter could lead to a failure of the whole system.