What is a barrage in the context of hydraulic engineering?

A barrage is a type of low-head, diversion dam that features a series of large gates. These gates are designed to be opened or closed to control the amount of water passing through, which allows for the regulation and stabilization of river water elevation upstream for various purposes.

What is the primary function of the gates in a barrage?

The primary function of the gates in a barrage is to control the volume of water passing through the structure. By opening or closing these gates, operators can regulate the river's water elevation upstream, which is crucial for managing water resources.

What does the term 'low-head' signify when describing a barrage?

The term 'low-head' indicates that a barrage is designed to create only a small difference in water level between the upstream and downstream sides, typically raising the water level by just a few feet, as opposed to dams that create significant reservoirs.

From which language does the English word 'barrage' originate, and what does it mean?

The English word 'barrage' is borrowed from the French language. The French word 'barrer' means 'to bar' or 'to block'.

How did the term 'barrage' become established in the English language?

The English usage of 'barrage' originated from the Delta Barrage on the Nile River in Egypt. British engineers adopted the term when they took over management of these structures and subsequently used it for similar constructions, leading to its wider adoption in English through connections with British India and the Middle East.

Which specific structure in Egypt is cited as the origin for the English term 'barrage'?

The Delta Barrage across the Nile branches north of Cairo is cited as the origin for the English term 'barrage'.

Who were the key figures involved in the construction of the Delta Barrage?

The Delta Barrage was built between 1833 and 1862 by French engineers Linant de Bellefonds and Eugène Mougel, employed by the Egyptian Public Works Department. Barthélemy Prosper Enfantin also provided assistance.

Under whose authority was the Delta Barrage constructed?

The Delta Barrage was constructed with the blessing of Muhammad Ali, who was the Viceroy of Egypt at the time, serving under the Ottoman Empire.

What role did the British play in the adoption of the term 'barrage'?

After assuming responsibility for the Nile barrages in Egypt post-1882, the British adopted the term 'barrage' for these structures. They continued to use it for new constructions and their association with counterparts in British India helped popularize the term in English.

What are the main structural components of a barrage dam?

A barrage dam consists of a series of large gates that control water flow, set between flanking piers. These piers are essential for supporting the water load of the pool created upstream.

What are the primary purposes for which barrage dams are utilized?

Barrage dams are primarily used to divert water for irrigation needs or to limit the amount of water flowing downstream. They help regulate water levels for various water management systems.

Where are barrage dams typically constructed in relation to a river?

In most cases, a barrage dam is built near the mouth of a river.

What is a critical consideration for the foundation when constructing a barrage dam?

The site chosen for dam construction needs thorough investigation to ensure the foundation is strong enough to support the dam and has a low possibility of failing.

How are dams assessed for safety, and what do the ratings indicate?

Dams are given a safety rating from one to five, based on factors like type, location, and potential effects of failure. A rating of five signifies the highest danger, typically given to dams built upstream of populated areas where failure could cause significant injury.

What is an example of an advanced design technology mentioned for improving barrage dams?

An improved wedge-shaped block technology has been developed that enhances the ability of barrage dams to sustain greater amounts of water and withstand severe flooding.

Who developed the wedge-shaped block technology for dam construction?

The improved wedge-shaped block technology was developed by Rafael Morán and Miguel Toledo.

What are the main environmental impacts associated with dam construction?

Dam construction can affect the economy and the environment. Specifically, it impacts species richness, water volume, nutrient levels, and can interfere with the migration and reproduction of aquatic species.

How is the effect of a dam on its surrounding ecosystem typically measured?

The effect of a dam on its surrounding ecosystem is usually measured by assessing species richness. Scientists monitor fish and animal populations before and after construction to observe changes in population size and diversity.

What has been observed regarding species richness downstream compared to upstream of dams?

In some instances, it has been found that species richness is lower downstream from a dam than further upstream, indicating a potential negative impact on biodiversity caused by the dam's presence and operation.

How does inhibiting water volume affect species diversity and richness?

Inhibiting the volume of water flow due to a dam has been shown to be detrimental to species diversity and richness within the river ecosystem.

What is the effect of high water flow at the entrance of dams on the ecosystem?

High water flow at the entrance of dams can lead to reduced nutrient levels in that area, which negatively impacts the ecosystem's reproduction standard.

How can dams affect fish migration and reproduction?

Dams can significantly affect the migration and reproduction paths of fish. The physical barrier can lead to less reproduction and altered population dynamics.

What other factors, besides species richness and water volume, can dams influence in river ecosystems?

Dams can also affect nutrient levels in river ecosystems. Changes in water volume and flow can alter the distribution and availability of nutrients, impacting the overall health of the ecosystem.

Do all studies show significant negative environmental impacts from dams?

While substantial evidence points to environmental impacts from dam construction, some studies suggest less damage than expected. For example, plankton has shown resilience to changes in pH levels and habitat near some dams.

How do changes in pH levels near dams affect plankton?

Plankton has been minimally affected by recorded changes in pH levels near dams, indicating a degree of tolerance to these environmental shifts.

Which aquatic species are mentioned as being more sensitive to the effects of dams than plankton?

Species such as trout are noted as being more affected by dams, primarily because the physical structure of the dam impedes their migration and reproduction paths.

What are the potential consequences of reduced water flow downstream from a barrage dam?

Reduced water flow downstream can have varied effects on native species, potentially altering habitats and impacting populations that depend on specific flow regimes.

What issues related to water pressure can dams create upstream, and how does it affect fish?

Dams can create a buildup of water pressure that fish are not accustomed to. This can cause fish to migrate further upstream, leading to reduced population sizes in certain river sections.

What economic benefits are derived from building dams?

Dams provide significant economic benefits, particularly by enabling farming and livestock growth through advanced irrigation technology. The advantages gained from irrigation can often outweigh the risks associated with dam construction.

According to the World Commission on Dams, what is the fundamental difference between a dam and a barrage?

The World Commission on Dams distinguishes between dams and barrages based on their primary function: a dam is built for water storage in a reservoir, significantly raising water levels, while a barrage is built for water diversion, raising the water level only by a few feet.

How does the water level increase typically differ between a dam and a barrage?

A dam is designed to create a reservoir by significantly raising water levels, whereas a barrage is designed for diversion and only raises the water level by a few feet.

On what type of terrain are barrages generally constructed?

Barrages are typically constructed on flat terrain, often across wide and meandering rivers.

How is the distinction between a 'dam' and a 'barrage' defined in the Egyptian context?

In Egypt, a 'dam' is defined as a structure creating a reservoir for water storage to supplement river flow during low periods. A 'barrage' in Egypt is a structure that merely raises the river or canal level to ensure adequate flow into canals taking off above it.

What is the typical size comparison between barrages and the headworks of irrigation canals?

Barrages are usually larger than the headworks of the irrigation and navigation canals with which they are associated.

What are tidal barrages, and what is their purpose?

Tidal barrages are a specific type of barrage used to dam a tidal lagoon or estuary. Their purpose is to capture energy from tidal flows and generate tidal power.

What related structures or concepts are listed in the 'See also' section of the article?

The 'See also' section lists related concepts such as diversion dams, head (hydrology), the Nampo Dam (West Sea Barrage in North Korea), and weirs.

What is the role of flanking piers in a barrage structure?

The flanking piers in a barrage are structural components responsible for supporting the water load of the pool created upstream by the barrage's gates.

How did the British Public Works Department in Egypt contribute to the term 'barrage'?

The British Public Works Department adopted the term 'barrage' when managing the Nile barrages in Egypt. Their continued use of the term and connections with British India helped spread it into the English language.

What specific advantages does the wedge-shaped block technology offer for dam construction?

The wedge-shaped block technology allows dams to sustain greater amounts of water, withstand severe flooding, and reduces production costs by using fewer materials.

What is the significance of plankton diversity in assessing dam impacts?

Plankton diversity can serve as an indicator of an ecosystem's ability to adapt to changes caused by a new dam, as plankton has shown resilience to habitat and pH level alterations near some barrages.

How can dams affect nutrient levels in river ecosystems?

Dams can impact nutrient levels; for instance, high water flow at the entrance of dams can lead to reduced nutrient availability, affecting the ecosystem's reproductive capacity.

What is the primary functional difference between a dam and a barrage regarding water storage?

A dam is primarily designed for water storage, creating a reservoir by significantly raising water levels. A barrage, conversely, is designed for water diversion and only slightly raises the water level, typically by a few feet.

What specific type of barrage is designed to harness energy from tidal movements?

Tidal barrages are specifically designed to dam tidal lagoons or estuaries to capture energy from tidal flows for the generation of tidal power.

What does the term 'head' refer to in the context of hydraulic structures like barrages?

In hydraulics, 'head' refers to the difference in water elevation or pressure. A 'low-head' barrage, therefore, operates with a minimal difference in water level between its upstream and downstream sides.

What are the 'flanking piers' in a barrage, and what is their function?

The flanking piers are vertical structures within a barrage that support the gates and bear the load of the water impounded upstream, helping to maintain the structure's integrity.

How did the term 'barrage' spread geographically from its origins?

Originating in French and adopted in Egypt, the term 'barrage' entered English through British engineers. It subsequently spread to British India and the Middle East, becoming a common term in the English language.

What are the potential consequences of dams on fish migration and reproduction?

Dams can act as physical barriers that inhibit the natural migration routes of fish. This disruption can lead to reduced opportunities for reproduction, potentially impacting fish populations.

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What is a Barrage?

Core Function

A barrage is a type of low-head, diversion dam characterized by a series of large gates. These gates are designed to control and regulate the amount of water passing through, thereby stabilizing river water elevation upstream for essential uses like irrigation and other water systems.¹

Structural Design

The gates are supported by flanking piers, which bear the significant water load of the impounded pool. This structure allows for precise management of water flow, differentiating it from structures primarily built for large-scale water storage.

Origin of the Term

The term "barrage" is derived from the French word "barrer," meaning "to bar" or "to obstruct."¹ This linguistic root aptly describes its function in controlling water passage.

Etymology and Historical Roots

Egyptian Origins

The English usage of "barrage" gained traction through structures like the Delta Barrage across the Nile River in Egypt. Constructed between 1833 and 1862 by French engineers Linant de Bellefonds and Eugène Mougel under Muhammad Ali, these early barrages served as crucial water management tools.

British Adoption

Following the British occupation of Egypt in 1882, the term was adopted by British engineers managing these structures. They continued to use "barrage" for similar constructions, such as the Zefta and Assiut Barrages, completed in 1902.⁷

Global Spread

Through connections between British engineers in Egypt and their counterparts in British India, the term "barrage" subsequently found its way into common usage in India, Pakistan, the Middle East, and eventually into the broader English lexicon for similar water control structures.

Dam Construction & Innovation

Foundation and Safety

The successful construction of a barrage dam hinges on thorough site investigation to ensure a stable foundation capable of supporting the structure and minimizing failure risks. Dams are assigned safety ratings (1-5) based on location and potential impact, with higher ratings indicating greater risk in case of failure.

Technological Advancements

Modern designs focus on enhanced resilience and cost-efficiency. Rafael Morán and Miguel Toledo developed an improved wedge-shaped block technology for barrages. This innovation allows structures to withstand severe flooding while utilizing fewer materials, thereby reducing production costs.³

Gate Mechanisms

The core of a barrage's function lies in its series of gates. These gates, typically large and robust, are operated to precisely manage water flow, enabling diversion for irrigation or controlling downstream levels. The piers supporting these gates are critical structural elements.

Environmental & Economic Impacts

Ecosystem Effects

Barrages significantly alter river ecosystems. Studies often measure species richness, observing impacts on fish and animal populations. Inhibited water volume and flow downstream can be detrimental to biodiversity and reproductive success. Changes in pH levels and nutrient distribution also affect aquatic life.⁴

Species Richness: Reduced downstream flow can decrease diversity.
Fish Migration: Physical barriers inhibit natural migration and reproduction patterns.⁵
Water Flow & Nutrients: Altered flow regimes and nutrient levels impact ecosystem health.
Plankton Resilience: Some studies indicate plankton can adapt to habitat changes near barrages.⁴
Upstream Pressure: Increased pressure upstream can affect fish populations.

Economic Considerations

Despite environmental concerns, barrages offer substantial economic benefits. The controlled water supply is crucial for agriculture, enabling irrigation that supports farming and livestock. In many contexts, the economic advantages derived from enhanced agricultural productivity and reliable water resources can outweigh the ecological risks.⁴

Irrigation: Essential for crop cultivation and livestock farming.
Water Supply: Provides stable water resources for various uses.
Flood Control: Helps manage river levels, mitigating flood damage.
Power Generation: Tidal barrages can harness energy from tidal flows.

Balancing Act

The construction and operation of barrages necessitate a careful balance between human needs for water and energy, and the preservation of riverine ecosystems. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies are vital to mitigate negative impacts and maximize benefits.

Barrage vs. Dam

Key Distinctions

According to the World Commission on Dams, a primary distinction lies in their purpose and scale. Dams are typically built to create reservoirs for significant water storage, substantially raising water levels. Barrages, conversely, are primarily for diverting water and raise the water level only slightly, often by just a few feet.⁶

Geographical Context

Barrages are commonly situated on flat terrain across wide, meandering rivers. Their design facilitates efficient water diversion into associated irrigation or navigation canals, often being larger than the headworks of such canals.⁶

Tidal Barrages

A specialized type, known as a tidal barrage, is constructed across tidal lagoons or estuaries. These structures are designed to capture energy from tidal flows, converting the natural ebb and flow of tides into usable power.⁷

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References

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River's Gatekeepers

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What is a Barrage? ℹ️

🌊 Core Function

🏗️ Structural Design

💡 Origin of the Term

Etymology and Historical Roots 📜

🇪🇬 Egyptian Origins

🇬🇧 British Adoption

🌍 Global Spread

Dam Construction & Innovation ⚙️

📐 Foundation and Safety

💡 Technological Advancements

🔗 Gate Mechanisms

Environmental & Economic Impacts ⚖️

🐠 Ecosystem Effects

💰 Economic Considerations

⚠️ Balancing Act

Barrage vs. Dam ↔️

📚 Key Distinctions

🏞️ Geographical Context

⚡ Tidal Barrages

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is a Barrage?

Core Function

Structural Design

Origin of the Term

Etymology and Historical Roots

Egyptian Origins

British Adoption

Global Spread

Dam Construction & Innovation

Foundation and Safety

Technological Advancements

Gate Mechanisms

Environmental & Economic Impacts

Ecosystem Effects

Economic Considerations

Balancing Act

Barrage vs. Dam

Key Distinctions

Geographical Context

Tidal Barrages

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice