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Debris control for hydropower
Published on 10 Mar ‘25
Debris Control at Barrage de la Plate Taille hydropower installation
Debris control for hydropower

Barrage de la Plate Taille, the largest dam in Belgium, plays an important role in the country’s renewable energy production, as part of the Lacs de l’Eau d’Heure. In addition to its purpose for hydroelectric power generation and water management, it also serves as a recreational hub. However, the presence of floating debris created a significant challenge for the Eau d’Heure hydropower station. To address this challenge, an effective solution was needed to protect the infrastructure, ensuring effective debris control for the hydropower infrastructure.

Improving operational efficiency 

To keep the Eau d’Heure hydropower station operational, a specialized solution was required. The primary objective was debris control, with no specific safety requirements outlined in the project scope. However, the proposed solution had a dual function, addressing both debris control and public safety. It integrates a protective net along with a fully customized boom system, providing an efficient and reliable barrier. The boom system effectively prevents swimmers, divers, kayakers and boaters from accessing hazardous, restricted areas near the dam, intake structures or strong currents.

Preventing debris accumulation

Debris accumulation poses a major risk to hydropower facilities worldwide. Floating logs, branches and other materials can obstruct intake structures. This reduces efficiency and increases maintenance requirements.

The customized barrier system ensures effective debris control, intercepting both floating and submerged debris before it reaches the hydropower installation. It comprises of both a boom and an attached underwater net. This net acts as an additional layer of protection. It captures smaller debris that might otherwise pass through the boom, further ensuring the continuous operation of the hydropower station.

Boom adaptability to water level variations

A critical aspect of the project was ensuring that the solution could adapt to fluctuating water levels and changing flow directions caused by hydropower station operations. Since piling and pile floats were not feasible due to water depth, angled concrete walls and a concrete floor, we implemented our unique I-beam roller system, specially designed for these kinds of situations. This system enables the boom to dynamically adjust to operational water level changes, ensuring reliable performance.

Engineering for performance

For this installation, Bolina Log Screen Booms were selected due to their durability and effectiveness in hydropower environments and customized. These booms have been successfully deployed at major hydropower sites worldwide, including top-10 plants in Africa. The booms ensure continuous plant operation by intercepting floating – and at times submerged – debris before it reaches critical infrastructure.

To ensure reliability, the booms undergo detailed physical testing. This includes Buoyancy Tests, Connection Flexibility Tests and Traveller Tests. While these were conducted internally, the Pull Test – which was critical for determining the barrier’s strength – was independently verified by Lloyds British.

Canoe pass

Customization options for site-specific needs

Bolina Log Screen Booms are designed with flexibility in mind, offering configurations that can be adapted to site-specific requirements. Options include but are not limited to:

40T fuse link – A controlled safety mechanism to prevent overloading.
Canoe passes – Optional openings to allow small watercraft passage when required.
Multiple end-connection options – Customizable solutions to align with site constraints and operational needs.

Common challenges in hydropower and safety management

Workboat navigation

Ensuring accessibility for workboats is a key consideration when installing safety barriers. To address this, the barrier system can be equipped with gated passages. This allows workboats to pass through efficiently without compromising the protection of infrastructure or safety zones.

Fluctuating water levels

Water levels in hydropower reservoirs vary significantly, affecting the effectiveness of the barriers. The inclusion of a traveller end connection enables the booms to adjust dynamically. This helps the system maintain its functionality even during periods of high or low water levels.

Conclusion

The installation at Barrage de la Plate Taille hydropower plant provides a robust and adaptable solution for debris control for the client. By integrating a protective net with the boom, this system not only ensures the interception of floating and submerged debris, but also enhances safety by preventing unauthorized access to restricted areas. Through rigorous testing and adaptable configurations, this dual-function solution continues to support hydropower facilities worldwide, optimizing both operational efficiency and public safety.

Looking for reliable debris control and safety solutions for hydropower facilities? Get in touch with our team to find the right solution for your site.

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