Filter Diaphragm Exhibits

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Message: Place as far downstream as possible, extending up to the normal reservoir elevation

A filter diaphragm is a designed zone of filter material constructed around a conduit. This zone can act both as a drain to carry off water and as a filter to intercept soil particles being transported by the water. A filter diaphragm is an important component of design for both new construction and the renovation of older embankment dams.

Content From Conduits through Embankment Dams (FEMA)

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  Typical Configuration for filter diaphragm used in the design of an embankment dam.

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  Typical configuration for filter diaphragm used in design of an embankment dam. The filter diaphragm should extend into the foundation soils, where an excavation is made for the conduit.

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  Typical configuration for a filter diaphragm used in the design of an embankment dam. The figure shows the location of the filter diaphragm as far downstream as possible, leaving adequate cover over it.

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  Construction of a filter diaphragm within an embankment dam.

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  Filter diaphragm trench excavated and backfilled with sand

Note: The content on this page was originally created as part of DamOutletWorks.org (DOWL, 2018). It has subsequently been updated and reformatted as part of the Dam Safety Toolbox.
Revision ID: 4749
Revision Date: 12/02/2022