Program Summary
Jet Filter System’s maintainable weep hole filters tackle the difficulties inherent in conventional drainage systems for earth retaining structures (ERS). Traditional drainage systems fail over time. Horizontal drainage pipe with geotextile wrap or weep holes with geotextile backing, clog or tear. This can result in soil voids and possibly sink holes. Jet Filters provide a third options that allows water to flow from behind the ERS preventing wall stress and deterioration, while stopping soil loss thereby preventing soil voids. Jet Filters are mounted through existing or new weep holes. The conical shape maximizes the surface area of the bult-in geotextile cartridge that can be cleaned or replaced as needed. Jet Filters meet the four goals of drainage: water flow; soil stability; maintainability; and cost effectiveness. Repairing a traditional drainage system can cost well over $100,000. Using Jet Filters could be less than 10%.
Documents:
Program Application: Maintainable Weep Hole Filters – IDP Application
Final Report: IDP Final Report – Culvert Maintainable Drain with Appendixes
Additional Daily, Weekly and Quarterly Reports can be found at: https://jetfiltersystem.com/michigan-dot-tsp2-demonstration/
Contact Info:
Greg Heilman
Jet Filter System, L.L.C.
gpheilman@jetfiltersystem
(248)563-1958
Detailed Description of Program
Describe your product/technology:
The JET Filter System’s Maintainable Weep Hole Filters address the challenges faced by conventional drainage systems in earth retaining structures. These filters allow water to drain while preventing soil erosion, reducing hydrostatic pressure, and preventing retaining wall failures. They can be installed in new or existing walls made of concrete, sheet pile, MSE, or wood, and are suitable for various applications including box culverts, bridge abutments, retaining walls, tunnels, seawalls and stormwater channels.
Why is it innovative?
The innovative aspect of the JET Filter System lies in its maintainable design, which allows for easy installation and maintenance from the front side of the earth retaining structure without the need to remove material or replace erosion control fabric. This reduces maintenance costs and ensures long-term effectiveness. The system effectively mitigates hydrostatic pressure and prevents soil loss, which conservatively extends the lifespan of structures.
What would a field demonstration entail?
A field demonstration would involve showcasing the installation of the JET Filter System on a retaining wall, box culvert or bridge abutment, or tunnel, illustrating the ease of front-side installation. The demonstration would include a step-by-step guide on fitting the weep hole filters into new or existing structures. It would also simulate various conditions to demonstrate the filters’ effectiveness in reducing hydrostatic pressure and preventing soil erosion, highlighting their benefits for different applications.