What is a Wick Drains?

Prefabricated Vertical Drains (PVDs) are one of the most widely and commonly applied geotechnical materials. So, what are Wick Drains typically used for? How do PVDs work? Let’s explore more information about the working principle of PVDs in the following article from Phú Thành Phát!

What are Wick Drains used for?

Wick Drians (or PVDs) function to drain pore water from the water-saturated mud pockets of weak soil foundations up to a thin sand blanket, approximately 50-60 cm thick, for discharge. This accelerates the consolidation process of weak soil foundations. PVDs come in two forms: vertical PVDs and horizontal PVDs.

PVDs have high applicability in port, highway, airport, and railway projects. They help reinforce soft soil foundations, stabilize the ground, and effectively treat environmental pollution. They are extremely important for reinforcing and stabilizing infrastructure.

Using PVDs is three times more effective than other reinforcement methods, such as surcharge loading and sand drains. PVDs offer numerous advantages and superior benefits. They are simple and convenient to install.

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Working Principle of PVDs

PVDs work based on the capillary action (reverse osmosis) principle. They absorb water from the subsoil into the filter jacket and flow into the core of the PVD. The grooved core facilitates reverse osmosis up to the sand blanket and discharges the water (the water transmission method varies depending on the type of PVD).

With a low permeability coefficient, PVDs easily control the water flow rate and force, reducing the movement of surrounding materials. This limits the clay film from adhering to the outer jacket of the PVD.

PVDs have good tensile strength and high elongation. Fixing the movement speed of the jacket or core does not affect their performance. They can drain water in any terrain and under any construction conditions.

Thus, PVDs can operate effectively in various terrains, including fine sand, clay, ponds, swamps, and mud.

Conclusion

PVDs are geotechnical materials that offer numerous superior benefits in soil reinforcement. PVDs operate based on the capillary action (reverse osmosis) principle. To purchase PVDs at a preferential price, please leave your contact information or contact Phú Thành Phát immediately. We will promptly answer your questions and provide you with a quote.


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