The Value of Gabion Barriers in Flood Control

Introduction to Gabion Barriers

Gabion barriers, also known as gabions, are wirework containers filled with rocks, concrete, or other robust materials. Often built using galvanized wire for added durability, these barriers have been used in various civil engineering applications for decades, particularly in flood control and erosion mitigation.

Benefits of Galvanized Wire Welded Gabion Barriers

1. ​High Permeability:

Galvanised wire welded gabions offer excellent permeability thanks to the stone fill used within the gabion, which allows free drainage of water while retaining soil or fill. By reducing the speed of the floodwaters, the gabions minimize the erosion impact on nearby riverbanks or embankments, helping protect land and property.

2. Inherent Flexibility:

Unlike rigid structures, gabion barriers can yield to ground shifts and movements without losing their structural integrity. The flexibility of these barriers makes them ideal for use in flood-prone regions where the ground is often unstable.

3. Prevention of Erosion:

Gabions serve as effective deterrents against soil erosion, a common issue during floods. By preserving soil through the reduction in water forces, gabions indirectly assist in preserving local ecologies associated with riverbanks and soakaways.

4. Economically and Environmentally Efficient:

Made from locally-sourced materials and often filled with reclaimed stones or other inert waste materials, these barriers are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Energy Dissipation through Gabion Barriers

Rough Surface Texture:

Combined with the use of large stone fillings, the rough surface texture of gabion barriers has a high friction factor. As the speed of water flow is directly proportional to this friction factor, gabions effectively slow down water flow which results in energy dissipation.

High Permeability and Energy Conversion:

Gabion barriers' porosity allows water to flow through, reducing the impact force. The water's path is interrupted and diverted while flowing through spaces in the gabion, thereby reducing both its speed and kinetic energy.

Absorption:

The stones used in gabions can absorb a significant amount of water energy. In contrast, solid concrete structures might rebound the water's energy, enhancing erosion risk.

Gabions as a solution to the growing problem of flooding

Global warming has caused sea levels to rise and weather patterns to change, increasing the risk of heavy rainfall and resulting in more frequent, severe floods. As a consequence, efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solutions like gabion barriers are becoming more essential every day. 

Conclusion

Gabion barriers are an innovative solution to maintain and safeguard our landscape from the destructive powers of moving water. Despite their simple design, the way they dissipate the energy of water is highly effective and efficient. Their benefits extend beyond flood control and prevention of soil erosion, providing a sustainable solution to preserve natural habitats and protect against global climate change.