Protecting your storm drain outlets is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your overall stormwater drainage system. During periodic inspections, it is essential to monitor these critical components and address any issues that may arise.
During periodic inspections pay close attention for stormwater bypassing or damaging established energy dissipators such as riprap that may need maintenance. Additionally, it is important to look for any scouring beyond the outlet that can create unwanted erosion.
Beyond the outlet itself, it is also crucial to inspect the area beyond the outlet for any signs of scouring or erosion. This type of damage can undermine the stability of the outlet and lead to larger problems down the line. By addressing these issues early on, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your storm drain system continues to function effectively.
Outlet, or outfall area Protection should be considered the last spot to ensure everything is working to minimize unwanted erosion and sediment leaving a construction site. During a heavy rainstorm in Florida, stormwater flows into a drainage inlet and the momentum forces the stormwater through a pipe or culvert and could cause major damage.
The high velocity of flowing water released to bare soils or steep slopes can cause harmful erosion. Permanent or temporary energy dissipators installed properly can dramatically reduce erosion where stormwater discharges to unprotected areas and outfall locations.
Energy dissipators are devices designed to protect downstream areas from erosion by reducing the velocity of flow to acceptable limits.
Here are some examples of effective outfall energy dissipators.
- Riprap is a layer of crushed stone placed on the bottom and sides of the channel protects the channel and dissipates the energy of the high velocity flow.
- An outlet weir can be designed and used to prevent flooding, measure water flow, and hold water.
- A stilling basin provides a means to absorb or dissipate the energy from the spillway discharge and protects the spillway area from erosion and undermining.
Call KCI, we can help you plan and prepare. Together, we can minimize the potential for downstream erosion as a result of high velocity concentrated stormwater flows. KCI is a leading environmental stormwater management firm specializing in sustainable stormwater management solutions for construction sites and industrial facilities. With a team of experienced environmental consultants, KCI provides innovative and effective solutions for erosion control, and water quality management. Contact us on 888-346-7779.
