ABSTRACT
Rijkswaterstaat stimulates innovation by use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites in civil waterway works in cases where there is a material property advantage.
As FRP Composite is strong, durable, lightweight, low-maintenance, and easily fitted; the use of FRP Composite instead of classic steel or wood was chosen for new large Mitre Gates in the Wilhelmina Canal, The Netherlands.
Each leaf of the bottom gates has a dimensions of 6.3 x 12.3 meters and are designed to resist a hydraulic head of 7.8 meters.
Because of the less intensive maintenance regime also low hindrance for water traffic during the 100 years of the intended design life is expected. Also the use of tropical wood will be avoided, which contributes to one of the Rijkswaterstaat general environmental objectives.
This paper describes aspects of designing, building, installing and the performance after more than one year of service of the largest FRP Composite Mitre Gates in the world today in the Wilhelmina Canal, The Netherlands.
The design approach for this hydraulic FRP Composite structure is discussed, based on the functional requirements in conjunction with the hinges, the quoin blocks, gate paddles and the sealing requirements.
Extra specific requirements and testing of the FRP Composite material ensure the structural safety and durable performance. This creates consensus among designers, operators and users to accept the use of FRP composite as an innovative and reliable material for this relatively large hydraulic structure.
End.
Note:
Presentation of this paper will be given as part of the SHORT COURSE: Miter Gates, Rolling Gates and Operational Machinery Process Design.
This presentation helps the world wide discussion to make the use of FRP in hydraulic structures acceptable among designers, operators and waterway users.
In general, by using FRP Composites in hydraulic structures all stakeholders can benefit because of the reduction in maintenance costs and hindrance.