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How to Install Dam liners
Dam liner installation is such a simple yet complicated task. Proper dam liner installation will guarantee good water collection and liner longevity. During dam liner installation, maximum care is needed to avoid damaging it. It requires proper coordination so as to achieve the intended objective.
Steps on How to Install a Dam liner
1. Dam Excavation.
This is the first step and usually takes the longest time. Excavation can be done manually where jembes and hoes are used or with a machine. Most common machines for dam excavation are backhoe loaders, bull dozers and caterpillars. During excavation, the side walls are inclined at an angle to prevent collapse of the dam.
2. Smoothening of the dam.
This is done to remove any sharp objects that may damage the dam liner. You may be forced to pour in water on the floor and sides to soften it.
3. Trench making
Trenches are dug round the dam where the dam liner will be installed. The size of the trench will depend on the size of the dam and the dam liner thickness. The most popular trench sizes are 1ft deep by 1ft wide and 1.5ft deep by 1.5ft wide.
4. Dam liner Installation
During installation, the dam liner is inserted in the reservoir, to take the shape of the reservoir. The liner must have an allowance for overlap. This allowance is inserted in the trench and covered with soil so as to have a smooth finish. Several casual labourers are needed to ensure the process becomes as smooth as possible. Note that you have to install an inlet and an over flow. The inlet can be a pipe from a river, borehole or from the roof gutter section. Dams that trap run off water must have a silt trap with several chambers to trap stones, mud and other debris.