Overview of AquaComp

The AquaComp computer program was designed to simulate the behavior of Aqua-Barrier™ tubes when placed in their intended environment. The program is a FORTRAN language Distinct Element Method formulation.

The Distinct Element Method is a numerical technique which originated in the mid 1970s. This technique has been applied to a wide variety of problems encountered in the field of civil engineering, particularly soil and rock mechanics. This technique is applicable to flexible tube analysis because it is suitable for situations involving large displacements and de-formations.

In order to apply the Distinct Element Method, the Aqua-Barrier™ system is visualized as a collection of closely spaced connected "elements" comprising the tube and the baffles. The base on which the tube rests is represented with a long slender element (which is normally, but not necessarily) placed horizontally beneath the tube.

These elements, when in contact, are connected with "springs" which are capable of transmitting both tension and compressive forces. The transmission of tension forces is especially important between elements comprising the tube and baffles. In the situation of tube to base contacts the elements transmit only compressive forces. The "springs" are capable of transmitting both normal and shear forces.

The amount of shear force transmitted is controlled by the coefficient of friction presumed to apply between contacting elements. In the case of contacting tube elements, the coefficient of friction is set to zero: therefore, the tube and baffles remain completely flexible. In the case of a tube element to base element, shear forces between these elements are permitted. The coefficient of friction (or friction angle) is set to a large value in the AquaComp program; therefore, the tube system may not slide on the base - it can only roll.

In reality, the tube system may slide whenever an unbalanced force (such as a pool level load) exists if the coefficient of friction (or angle of friction) is low along the tube to base contact or low within the foundation materials. The user of this program is requested to provide an estimate of the appropriate actual friction angle. This value is used to compute a factor of safety against sliding.

Call 1-800-245-0199 to receive a FREE copy of the AquaComp program today!

We at Hydrological Solutions would like to recognize the contribution of our late friend and colleague, John Palmerton PE, for his participation in the development of our Aqua-Comp program. John worked for 30 years with the US Army Corps of Engineers at the Vicksburg, MS office and was a pioneer in development of the distinct element modeling program. His invaluable involvement in the design of our systems has culminated in the safest and most stable water inflatable dam on the market today.