Debris Free Sweepers: A solution to drift induced scour

Mike Collier, President, Debris Free, Inc

Debris Free Inc., has developed and is presently marketing its Debris Free sweeper ("Bridgeshark TM"), as a positive and fact based solution to (a) drift accumulation on bridge piers and box culverts; (b) drift induced scour; (c) reducing the impact of drift removal projects; and, (d) mitigating factor in solving certain environmental concerns caused by drift accumulation in threatened and endangered species habitats.

The Bridgeshark sweeper is a hydraulic driven turbine that is powered by the natural flow and hydrology of rivers and streams. The rate of water velocity causes a right or left hand rotation of turbine depending upon the application. It will deflect drift and debris away from piers and diaphragm walls to open span and down river.

The Bridgeshark sweeper is attached to a tracking system, which mounts on a bridge pier or box culvert diaphragm wall. The cross-linked polyethylene Bridgeshark sweeper maintains a resilient, high strength and corrosion resistant outer wall. The sweeper's lightweight and controlled ballast capabilities support a positive or negative flotation. It has vertical tracking capabilities in excess of twenty-five feet during high water events.

Debris Free Inc. (generation 1) sweepers are installed in California, Oregon, Washington, Virginia, Louisiana, Alabama and Oklahoma.

The newly designed Bridgeshark provides enhanced rotation for flat to steep slope conditions by virtue of its computer generated finning design and polyethylene construction.

Debris Free Inc., offers the Bridgeshark as a real solution to interrupting the cycle of drift removal, and a respite in maintenance due to drift accumulation.

A short video will demonstrate the turbine designed sweeper at work in the environment.