The self-closing barrier of the Steyl-Maashoek dike reinforcement has successfully passed the leak-tightness test. At the Hollandia Infra site, the operation of this barrier was extensively tested using a test rig, which is an important milestone within this innovative project.
The new barrier, with a length of more than 130 meters, consists of quarter-round segments that are raised by rising water. This will protect the hinterland of Steyl in Limburg, near Maashoek, from flooding during high water in the future.
Since March 2022, construction combination DijkzoneAlliantie, consisting of Ploegam, Dura Vermeer and Hollandia Infra, has been working in cooperation with Vlotterkering bv to further develop the plans for this self-closing barrier. This is being commissioned by the Limburg Water Board. The leak-tightness test is an important step in the development process of this innovative barrier.
During the test, the focus was on the sealing rubbers between the segments, which ensure sufficient leak-tightness between the segments. The material of these rubbers must meet specific requirements, such as flexibility and strength, withstand long-term immersion in water without drying out when exposed to air, and, of course, be wear-resistant and waterproof. Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has developed a seal especially for this barrier that meets all these requirements. After a thorough testing period, the desired result has now been achieved.