Geotube questions

From the GMA Techline

Subject: GeotubeI refer to the article “Saving Yucatan’s Coast” published in the September 2005 issue of GFR (now Geosynthetics), pages 34-39.

Can you please let me know the following:

1. What mathematical calculation was used to derive the appropriate ground level?
2. What was the length of each tube and the filling port diameter and spacing?
3. What hydraulic equipment was used to fill the submerged portion of the tube? Was it a small dredger or some other equipment? What was the maximum distance between the filling port and the hydraulic equipment? What pumping pressure was maintained and what was the delivery rate of the slurry?

A reader from West Bengal, India

Reply: In reply to your query, we offer the following:

1. The best reference to mathematical formulations for geotextile tubes is the book by K. W. Pilarczyk, “Geosynthetics and Geosystems in Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering,” A.A. Balkima Publisher, Rotterdam, 2000, ISBN 90 5809 302 6. It covers the area excellently.
2. Typical lengths of geotextile tubes are 30-45 m in length, with 400 mm fill ports at about 8-10 m spacing.
3. For the actual construction equipment used, you should contact the author of the paper directly. His e-mail address is given at the end of the article: www.axisingenieria.com.

Bob Koerner | GMA Techline