Film solutions in effective water management
Heavy showers and waterlogging seem to be the new normal. During heavy rainstorms, a massive amount of water falls in a short period of time. The sewer systems cannot process this quickly enough, with all its consequences. Climate change and urbanisation are the main culprits here. Effective water management is therefore more crucial than ever. It helps relieve pressure on sewage systems and protects infrastructure and buildings.
NPI applies film solutions to manage rainwater in various systems, including infiltration systems and buffer systems.
Infiltration systems
Infiltration crates are water permeable crates that create underground spaces to store water temporarily, designed to gradually infiltrate rainwater into the ground. This helps maintain groundwater levels and reduces pressure on sewage systems. They are commonly installed in urban areas with extensive paving that inhibits natural infiltration.
Our partner Joosten Groep lines infiltration crates with geotextile to keep debris out while allowing water to infiltrate into the ground. When groundwater levels are high, NPI is requested to line an infiltration field with waterproof PVC film, creating a buffer field that captures and slowly drains rainwater to the sewer system. We apply a protective fleece to protect the PVC film.
Infiltration crates are installed in residential areas, under parking lots and artificial turf fields, among other locations.
Buffer systems
Buffer crates, also installed under the pavement, are designed to temporarily hold rainwater. These crates are covered with waterproof PVC film to create a reservoir. The stored water can be discharged to the sewer system or it can be reused. Water in buffer fields is often reused for irrigation or as flush water.
Buffer crates are frequently installed at sports fields, green roofs and in areas with high groundwater levels in residential areas, industrial areas and under parking lots.
The advantages of infiltration and buffer systems
In short, it is certain that due to climate change, heavy rain showers will become more frequent. Infiltration and buffer systems provide a solution to drainage problems by efficiently managing excess rainwater. They contribute to the reduction of flooding and they protect the sewerage system. The sewerage systems easily can become overloaded during heavy rainshowers, which can lead to blockages and damage to infrastructure. In addition, infiltration and buffer systems can help replenish groundwater reserves. It is also important to mention that infiltration crates are an invisible and a sustainable, long term solution!
NPI has collaborated with Joosten Groep for many years. Joosten Groep are specialists in infrastructure, water management and green solutions, and they are renowned for designing and installing infiltration and buffer fields. Would you like to learn more about infiltration and buffer systems or do you have a similar challenge?
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