Type 1 Turbidity Curtain
DOT Turbidity Curtains for Protected Waters
Texas Boom Company's Type 1 turbidity curtains provide reliable sediment and silt control for calm water applications throughout the Gulf Coast and nationwide. Engineered for construction sites in protected areas exposed to light winds and current velocities of less than one foot per second, our Type I barriers meet DOT specifications while delivering the durability that marine contractors demand.
Quick Product Specifications
- Section Lengths: 50 ft and 100 ft sections
- Skirt Depths: 3 ft to 20 ft (custom depths available)
- Skirt Type: Both permeable and impermeable options
- Fabric: PVC-coated polyester fabric with EPS flotation
- Applications: Ponds, shallow lakes, small streams, and marshes
When to Use Type 1 Turbidity Curtains
Ideal Water Conditions
Type 1 turbidity curtains are specifically designed for calm water environments where environmental forces are minimal. These barriers are suitable for use in protected waters where the effects of wind, waves, and current are minimal.
Perfect for:
- Pond dredging operations
- Bridge pier maintenance in calm waters
- Pipeline crossings in protected areas
- Shoreline restoration projects
- Small stream construction sites
Key Features & Benefits
- Superior Sealing: Constructed using RF Welds, with flotation chambers being individually sealed for maximum durability and water containment
- Universal Connection: Reinforced end seams with grommets allow for seamless connection with other Type I turbidity curtains to create longer barrier systems
- Easy Handling: Flotation segments are 3 ft long for superior wave conformity, ease of handling & storage
- Cost-Effective Solution: Economical option designed for deployment in a wide range of applications while maintaining professional-grade performance
- Custom Sizing: Skirt height can be customized and tapered to conform to the bottom profile of the body of water for optimal sediment control
- Enhanced Stability: Ballast chain provides strength and stability to maintain proper curtain position in varying water conditions
- Color Options: Typically made with fabric color of orange or yellow for high visibility, with other colors available via special order
Compliance & Certifications
Our Type 1 curtains meet Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements and ensure compliance with the Clean Water Act and National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), protecting your project from potential fines and delays.
Installation & Deployment Guide
Pre-Installation Planning
Proper installation is critical for effective sediment control. A successful turbidity curtain installation requires proper planning and implementation.
Site Assessment Checklist:
- Measure water depth at high and low tide
- Determine current speed and direction
- Identify anchor points on shoreline
- Allow for an additional 10-20% deviation in straight line measurements to compensate for measuring errors and reduce stress from potential waves
Installation Best Practices
Anchoring Requirements:
- Maximum span of 100 feet between anchor points for stability
- Stakes, concrete blocks, or Danforth-style anchors for position maintenance
Deployment Steps:
1. Connect sections on shore using nuts and bolts or durable zip ties
2. Attach tow bridle to leading edge
3. Deploy curtain parallel to water flow direction
4. Secure to shoreline anchor points
5. Deploy curtain by cutting reefing twine after anchoring
Depth Considerations
In tidal situations, maintain a minimum of 1 foot of clearance between the skirt and bottom to prevent sediment disturbance.
Maintenance & Longevity
Regular Inspection Protocol
Inspect turbidity curtains daily, with additional monitoring during storms or increased flow events. Any visible plume passing beyond the curtain requires immediate modification or repair.
Monthly Maintenance Tasks
- Check for UV damage or fabric wear
- Remove excessive marine growth
- Inspect flotation and ballast chain
- Verify anchor point security
Storage & Care
After project completion:
- Rinse salt water deploy
- ments with fresh water
- Clean marine growth with pressure washer
- Dry completely before storage
- Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
Technical Specifications
| Standard Type I (DOT) | Economy Type I | |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | 18 oz per sq ft PVC | 14 oz per sq ft PVC |
| Floatation | 6” closed cell foam in sealed pockets | 4” closed cell foam in sealed pockets |
| Top Tension Cable | None | None |
| Ballast | 1/4” HDG steel chain | 3/16” HDG steel chain |
| Skirt Height | 3 ft – 20 ft Skirt height can be tapered to conform to bottom profile | 3 ft – 20 ft Skirt height can be tapered to conform to bottom profile |
| End Connection | Lacing Grommets on reinforced ends on both ends of curtains. Rope, strong zip ties or nuts and bolts can be used through the grommets. Ballast chain connected end to end with shackles | Lacing Grommets on reinforced ends on both ends of curtains. Rope, strong zip ties or nuts and bolts can be used through the grommets. Ballast chain connected end to end with shackles. |
| Section Lengths | 50 ft, 100 ft | 50 ft, 100 ft |
DOT Type 1 Specification Sheet
Economy Type 1 Specification Sheet
Why Choose Texas Boom Company?
Extensive Expertise
With experience serving marine contractors throughout the Gulf region and the greater U.S., we understand the unique challenges of coastal construction. Our Type 1 turbidity curtains are engineered to withstand the necessary conditions while meeting regulatory requirements.
Competitive Advantage
- In-stock availability for immediate shipping
- Bulk pricing for large projects
- Technical support from sediment control experts
- Proven track record with DOT projects
- Made in USA quality assurance
Fast, Reliable Delivery
We maintain an extensive inventory of 50 ft and 100 ft sections in popular skirt depths, ensuring rapid deployment to your job site. Most orders ship within 24-48 hours.
Request a quote on Type I turbidity curtains today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine the right skirt depth?
Measure water depth at mean high tide and subtract 1-2 feet for bottom clearance. For tidal areas, consider water level fluctuations.
Can Type 1 curtains handle boat traffic?
Type 1 curtains can handle occasional small boat passage in calm conditions. For areas with regular boat traffic, consider Type 2 or Type 3 curtains.
How many sections do I need?
Measure the perimeter and add 10-20% for proper deployment. Our team can help calculate exact requirements.
What's the typical lifespan?
With proper maintenance, Type 1 curtains typically last 6-12 months in continuous deployment, or several years with intermittent use.
