What is the role of drainage filters in the construction of a bridge?

What are drainage filters and what are they used for?

The main function of drainage filters is to collect water from waterproofing levels on flat surfaces of engineering structures. A proper drainage filter plays a key role in keeping the structures in an optimal technical condition, ensuring the bridge load-bearing capacity, and thus the safety of the building. The SYTEC's bridge drain is designed as a water point drainage placed at the waterproofing level, collecting water that penetrates through the bridge upper layers. It is mostly used in the construction of road and railway engineering structures.

SYTEC filter features

Our filter is made of a resin laminate reinforced with glass fiber, being resistant to aggressive chemicals in temperatures ranging from -35 ° C to + 230 ° C. It consists of two elements: an outflow funnel with stabilizing wings and a strainer mounted on the plate. The funnel is made of a plate and a discharge tube. Filter dimensions are standard according to Bridge Elements Catalog. The drain pipe can be extended to the required length by means of PVC, PE or stainless steel 50 mm diameter pipes, depending on the project requirements. The filters are installed on the bridge infrastructure before pouring top concrete deck. In the case of structures undergoing modernization, the filter should be embedded inside the drilled hole and the joint should be supplemented with non-shrinkage mortar.

What is the effect of proper drainage on the durability of bridges?

A proper drainage of engineering structures is crucial to keep them in correct technical condition. The MTiGM ordinance dated May 30th, 2000 about technical conditions to be met by road engineering structures and their location specifies all requirements for the complete drainage arrangement. Additionally, It specifies the principles on drainage devices designing and presents all requirements for the entire rainwater drainage system.