When a dam across the Barren River near Bowling Green, KY, needed a new intake structure, workers first built a cofferdam to create a dry working environment. Once the water within the enclosure was pumped out, excavation phase of the dam repair project could begin. Unfortunately, water began leaking into the cofferdam enclosure very early into the project, penetrating through rock fractures in the surrounding hillside and mud seams in the working area itself. In the end, Harrison, OH’s T. Luckey Sons  was called in to ensure the success of the project.

The Barren River Cofferdam Project

Severe Water Penetration Problems

At the first signs of water infiltration, project managers installed several dewatering pumps, efforts that ultimately proved fruitless as water volumes steadily increased. As mud seams eroded further, the amount of water entering the cofferdam actually grew, with a flow eventually surpassing 15,000 gallons per minute. Unless the sources of water penetration were plugged, the dam repair project wouldn’t be able to continue.

T. Luckey Sons’ Innovative Solution

After a careful evaluation, the experts at T. Luckey Sons decided to drill a series of holes along the shore of Barren River, both downstream and upstream from the cofferdam. These holes, which were carefully placed to intersect rock fractures through which water flowed, were then fitted with inflatable injection ports. In a weeklong process, their team injected a carefully formulated grout mixture that would harden, permanently sealing the fissures and stopping the water intrusion. When the standing water was pumped out of the cofferdam, the project went ahead as planned.

The Bowling Green cofferdam project is just one of the many situations in which T. Luckey Sons was able to provide innovative solutions to even the most difficult geotechnical challenges. For more than 40 years, they’ve assisted clients around the world with everything from dam repair to waterproofing active mines and quarries. Visit their website to see some of their other projects, follow their Twitter for tips and advice, or call (513) 353-2345 to discuss your challenges with a member of their team.