March 14, 2024
An AIL Bolt-A-Plate Pipe Arch with fish baffle inserts was recently installed as a fish passage solution on Upper Booth Road in Kelowna, BC. The Pipe Arch shape was selected for its wider bottom geometry that allows for improved hydraulic flow rates, similar to another Pipe Arch we provided in West Kelowna.
Fish baffle inserts overcome high flow velocities, shallow water depths and lack of resting places or shelter that represent barriers to upstream fish movement through the structure. The result is a more environmentally friendly solution that supports stream habitat.
Pipe Arch culvert assembly sequence altered for baffles
The assembly of a Pipe Arch is a bit more complex than other shapes and installing fish baffle inserts adds another layer of complexity. These baffles were custom-fabricated to the shape of the Pipe Arch so their alignment needed to be very accurate.
Our Technical Sales Representative was on-site during the plate assembly to assist the contractor, R&L Construction, make the baffle installation easier. The structure was assembled in an atypical sequence with the baffles mounted to the bottom (invert) plates before the haunch and arch plates were added. This avoided awkward hand-lifting and installation inside the assembled structure and allowed for better accuracy.
Our project partners were pleased with the outcome and R&L Construction has since reached out to AIL on other projects.
Bolt-A-Plate: an effective culvert or buried bridge solution
For a strong, effective culvert or buried bridge solution, AIL’s Bolt-A-Plate is the product of choice for its light weight, strength and versatility. It is perfect for economical bridge and drainage structure construction or replacement, as well as many other applications. Bolt-A-Plate is available in spans of up to 12 m in our widest range of shapes and sizes: Standard, Low or High Profile Arches; Rounds; Horizontal or Vertical Ellipses; Pipe Arches and Pear Shaped.
More about Bolt-A-Plate Structural Steel Plate >>
More about AIL’s Wildlife Crossing and Fish Passage Solutions >>
