Balgkering Ramspol : modified design of abutments

In a previous scale model study for the inflatable rubber barrier Ramspol the design of the abutments appeared to be unsatisfactorily. Also questions remained concerning the influence of the crest elevation and the sheet stiffness. In order to improve the design modifications were carried through by Bridgestone Corporation, the subcontractor responsible for the design of the rubber membrane of the dams. The effectiveness of these modifications was checked in the present, follow-up scale model study. In addition, the effect of the sheet properties was examined and the effect of the crest elevation of the dam. The testing programme included wave tests for a closed barrier and opening tests.