COFFERDAM Meaning and
Definition
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A cofferdam refers to a temporary enclosure or barrier constructed around a submerged or partially submerged area to allow for underwater construction or repair work. It is predominantly used in civil engineering and construction projects that involve working on or within water bodies such as rivers, lakes, or oceans.
The primary purpose of a cofferdam is to ensure that the work area remains dry and isolated from the surrounding water, enabling workers to perform their tasks in a controlled environment. Typically, a cofferdam is built by driving vertical sheet piles or constructing a temporary wall made of steel, concrete, or earth materials. These walls form a watertight seal and prevent water from entering the enclosed space.
Cofferdams are commonly employed in various construction activities, including bridge building, dam construction or repair, pier and dock construction, pipeline installation or maintenance, and underwater salvage operations, among others. They provide a safe and dry working condition for activities such as excavation, concrete pouring, welding, or installation of support structures.
Once the construction or repair work is completed, the cofferdam is usually removed or dismantled, and the water flow is restored to its original state. However, in some cases, cofferdams may be intentionally left in place as a permanent part of the structure, such as around bridge piers or other submerged supports.
Common Misspellings for COFFERDAM
Etymology of COFFERDAM
The word "cofferdam" originated from Middle French "coffre", meaning "box" or "chest", and Old French "dam", meaning "destruction" or "stoppage". The term "cofferdam" was first used in English in the mid-19th century to describe a watertight structure built in the water to temporarily isolate a construction area. This isolation allows for construction or repair work to be conducted in dry conditions. The term combines the idea of a "box" or "chest" structure with a "dam" that prevents water from flowing into the designated area.
Similar spelling words for COFFERDAM
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