FRP Bulkheads & Stop Logs

Fiberglass Bulkheads and Stop Logs

Stop logs are essential hydraulic control elements used in floodgates to regulate water levels and discharge in rivers, canals and reservoirs. Traditionally made from timber or concrete, stop logs are stacked horizontally to block or adjust water flow through a conduit. As modern hydraulic systems have replaced manual methods, the need for lighter, more robust materials for stop logs has become more critical. Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer (FRP) is an ideal solution, offering superior performance over conventional materials like wood, steel or concrete.

The Advantages of Using FRP for Stop Logs:

• Lightweight and Strong — FRP stop logs are significantly lighter than traditional timber or concrete logs, making them easier to handle, install, and remove with hydraulic lifters and hoists. The reduced weight also lowers operational costs and minimizes wear on machinery, increasing efficiency
• Enhanced Durability — FRP's corrosion-resistant properties ensure a longer service life, even in high-flow environments where stop logs are subject to constant water exposure and pressure. This durability makes FRP stop logs ideal for harsh or corrosive environments, such as seawater or chemically treated water systems
• Modular and Flexible Design — Like traditional stop logs, FRP stop logs are modular, allowing operators to control water levels by adding or removing individual logs precisely. The strength and flexibility of FRP enable the creation of custom sizes and designs to suit various gate structures and hydraulic systems, offering greater versatility

Improved Performance in High-Flow Conditions

Stop logs are often subjected to high-flow conditions, leading to wear and leakage over time. FRP's superior strength and water resistance minimize these issues, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ensuring a more reliable seal between individual logs. This results in better control over water discharge and lower maintenance costs in the long term.

Applications of FRP Stop Logs:

• Routine Maintenance — FRP stop logs are ideal for temporarily blocking water flow during maintenance operations on spillways or canals. Their lightweight nature allows easier placement and removal, reducing labor requirements and downtime
• Water Level Control — FRP stop logs can be used in smaller gates to control water depth in fields or reservoirs over extended periods. Their resistance to corrosion and long-term durability ensures they maintain performance even when left in place for extended periods
• Hydroelectric Power Plants — In hydroelectric facilities, FRP stop logs can effectively control water flow to turbines, offering a reliable solution in high-pressure environments while reducing operational stress on mechanical lifting systems

The Future of Water Control with FRP

As water management needs evolve, especially in environments requiring frequent adjustments to water levels, FRP technology provides a future-proof solution. The superior strength, lightweight design and corrosion resistance make FRP stop logs a valuable investment for routine and long-term water control operations.

By incorporating FRP stop logs into existing systems, agencies like the U.S. Army Corps can significantly improve operational efficiency, reduce maintenance and ensure long-lasting performance in water control structures.

Waterfront infrastructure must withstand weather events while maintaining operational functionality, which can be crucial in protecting buildings and preventing shoreline erosion. FRP composites have become a leading technology for resilient infrastructure that can protect coastal communities, ports, waterways, bridges and naval bases. FRP composites are corrosion resistant, have superior strength and energy absorption, have design flexibility and are lightweight for installation and mobilization. FRP stop logs and bulkheads are an excellent choice for protecting your assets. 

Creating Reliable Waterfront Infrastructure with Composite Stop Logs & Bulkheads

Agencies like the USACE are relying on FRP stop logs and bulkheads to meet the demands, as adding height to existing concrete barriers can be unsafe due to corroded rebar. With its unique properties, FRP is the solution for creating reliable, lasting seaside bulkheads and stop logs that protect people, homes, buildings, and infrastructure. 

Our Experts Help You Design for the Future

As sea levels rise and environmental changes continue, the need for resilient waterfront infrastructure becomes more pressing. Stop logs are designed for gradual water flow control in open waterways. Instead of using aluminum or steel, we specialize in FRP stop logs to prevent flooding in rivers, canals and reservoirs. FRP has a significantly longer service life than traditional stop log and bulkhead materials like vinyl, steel, concrete and wood and choosing FRP products means investing in the best-tested FRP on the market. CCG provides engineers with immense testing information and documentation to aid design efforts.

Our bulkheads are available in a range of profiles. The thickest was 1432, followed by 1610 and 1580, and the least dense, 1560, cater to various bulkhead builds and wall characteristics. These profiles meet specific needs such as exposure height, surcharge loads and tie-back conditions. Our CCG experts are also available to assist engineers in selecting the best size for the maximum moment required for the bulkhead.