Flood Wall Testing: What is (FEA) Finite Element Analysis and Why It’s Important
The proper engineering of flood walls should be an essential factor in determining which type of flood protection system to implement.
The use of flood walls in flood prevention has become widespread due to the need for advanced flood protection solutions and the rise in frequency of severe storms and weather events. These flood wall systems differ in terms of materials, deployment, installation methods, and overall efficacy.
What is Flood Wall Testing?
The testing of flood walls encompasses a diverse range of methodologies aimed at comprehensively assessing the barriers expected performance under expected stressors. This process generally focuses on examining the characteristics of the materials used in the construction of the flood wall and its components, and utilizing knowledge about the material’s yield strength to determine its capabilities to resist flooding.
To thoroughly gauge the impact of hydrostatic pressure exerted upon the system, when confronted with rising floodwaters, one must calculate the materials poisson ratio and yield strength through physical testing and then compare that to the calculated pressure exerted by water at varying depths.
A basic calculation of yield strength to stress applied is important, but a comprehensive analysis needs to consider the specific geometry of the system. The entire system should be modeled to determine the specific effects of the stresses on different areas and components of the barriers.
Examination of the physical properties of the systems’ components, such as their durability, strength, and capabilities is vital. By subjecting these materials to meticulous testing protocols, engineers can accurately assess their material properties and when plugged into a model, can then determine their suitability for withstanding the harsh conditions that arise during flood events.
Hydrostatic pressures increase with the depth of the water and this increases the stress upon the flood barrier, however the stress may not be evenly distributed. Sophisticated models can, however, determine what areas of the system are affected by the hydrostatic pressure. Such analysis helps determine failure points and allow the manufacturer to adjust product designs accordingly. Simple calculations of yield strength aren’t enough as these don’t consider the specific geometry of the components and system.
What is FEA Analysis?
By utilizing advanced computer simulations called FEA Testing (Finite Element Analysis), engineers can simulate the effects of stress on various materials. These models are often complex and include millions of calculations that take hours to complete.
FEA uses the finite element method (FEM), a numerical technique that cuts the structure of an object into several pieces, or elements, and then reconnects the elements at points called nodes. The FEM creates a set of algebraic equations which engineers, developers and other designers can use to perform finite element analysis.
The physical experiences of a product, such as its structural or fluid behavior and thermal transport, are described using partial differential equations (PDEs). Finite element analysis emerged as a way for computers to solve both linear and nonlinear PDEs.
Using finite element analysis one can evaluate hydrostatic pressures impact on the structure of the barrier and reveal vital insights into the ability of the flood wall to resist the force of expected flood waters, and predict possible catastrophic breaches or failures. Conducting such an analysis helps provide confidence that the flood barrier will safeguard one’s property from the devastating consequences of uncontrolled flooding.
Why Is Flood Wall Testing Important?
At the heart and core of flood wall testing lies the fundamental principle of safety. Ensuring that flood walls are reliable provides those who purchase a system the peace of mind that the barriers can save their property. Beyond the immediate concerns of safety, there are broader implications to consider such as the economic toll from damage as a result of flooding, this includes the cost of repairing infrastructure, property and disruptions to day-to-day operations.
Garrison's Flood Wall System Ensures Your Preparedness
Garrison® Flood Control understands the importance of flood wall testing. Our mission is to provide durable, effective and reliable flood protection solutions to aid in your flood preparedness efforts.
The Hammerhead Aluminum Flood Panel System underwent extensive FEA (Finite Element Analysis) Testing by the State of Oregon’s/Texas’s Board of Examiners for Engineering & Land Surveying.
The objective through this simulation model was to assess for hydrostatic loading across different heights and widths of the Hammerhead System.
Learn more about the Hammerhead Flood Wall FEA Test Report:
Hammerhead™ Aluminum Flood Plank Barrier:
The Hammerhead™ Aluminum Flood Plank System is a durable “stop-log” flood barrier that enables the protection of doorways and other openings against flooding.
Aluminum planks are manufactured using 6063 T-5 Aluminum for high tensile and yield strength. U-Channel Posts are installed on either side of the opening to be protected. These unobtrusive posts can remain in place permanently and when flooding is expected are designed to receive a series of aluminum planks, which are stacked as needed to the height required. Hammerhead provides flood protection up to 6.5ft in height.
Client Success Stories:
The success of the Hammerhead system has allowed customers to have a trusted durable flood protection solution ready for whenever a flood threat or emergency arises. View how Hammerhead assisted clients in their flood planning and preparedness:
Benefits of the Hammerhead Aluminum Flood Plank System:
Hammerhead™ Aluminum Flood Wall system is also ideal for areas where high wind or debris is expected as the fixed posts and clamped planks are durable, rigid and designed to handle heavy stresses.
Hammerhead meets FEMA requirements in NFIP Technical Bulletin 3 for Dry Floodproofing, and Aluminum Flood Planks are reusable “stop-logs” customized to your specific length and height requirements.
Durable Construction: The system is made from high-strength aluminum, ensuring excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, even in harsh environments.
Customizable: The Hammerhead Aluminum Flood Plank System can fit a variety of widths with center posts allowing for the connection of elongated flood protection.
Aesthetically Appealing: The sleek design of the aluminum planks ensures that the system blends seamlessly with its surroundings, minimizing visual impact on the protected property.
Quick Installation & Accessibility: Hammerhead’s individual aluminum planks can slot in and out of the U-Channel Posts easily which keeps your entryways accessible.
Hammerhead Mounting Options
Choose between inside or outside mounted posts, depending on your specific installation environment, such as your threshold construction, window or door configuration, wall construction, or aesthetic preference. It is possible to make posts removable, using drop-in anchor bolts. The threaded sleeves are left in the wall and the flood barrier posts are able to be removed and reinstalled in advance of a flood event. It is important to confirm a good seal between the post, neoprene, and wall during each installation.
Learn More About the Importance of Flood Wall Testing:
Garrison™ Flood Control is a New York-based manufacturer and distributor of a complete line of flood control products. Garrison products contain, divert, and re-route water away from valuable property, equipment, infrastructure, and facilities and help prevent flood damage due to rising water levels.
When considering a flood wall solution, it is important to understand testing models to make an accurate decision for your flood control. Our team of Flood Specialists can help guide you through the process of protection, contact us today for a free consultation.
If you would like additional information about Garrison Flood Control Systems, please call 929-299-2099 or email sales@garrisonflood.com.
