Canal Lining:
Canal lining refers to the practice
of adding a protective layer to the inner surfaces of a canal. This layer or
lining serves to reduce seepage, prevent erosion, and improve the flow of
water.
Purpose of Canal
Lining:
The primary purposes
of canal lining are:
- Reduce Seepage: Unlined canals can allow water to seep
into the surrounding soil, leading to water loss. A lined canal helps to
reduce this seepage.
- Prevent Erosion: Flowing water can erode the sides and
bottom of an unlined canal. A lining protects the canal from this erosion.
- Improve Water Flow: A smooth, hard lining can reduce friction
and improve the flow of water in the canal.
- Reduce Maintenance: A lined canal requires less maintenance
compared to an unlined canal as it is less prone to erosion and weed
growth.
Materials Used
and Their Properties:
Several different
materials can be used for canal lining, each with its own properties:
- Concrete: Concrete is durable and provides a very
low permeability. It is also resistant to erosion. However, it can be
expensive and may crack due to temperature changes or ground movement.
- Clay or Soil: Some canals are lined with compacted clay
or other types of soil. This is less expensive than concrete but can be
more susceptible to erosion and may not reduce seepage as effectively.
- Plastic or Synthetic Membranes: These materials can provide a very low
permeability and can be less expensive than concrete. However, they can be
susceptible to damage from exposure to sunlight or from punctures.
- Asphalt: This is a bituminous material, usually used in combination with
other materials like concrete or bricks. It provides good impermeability
and flexibility.
- Stone or Brick: These materials are durable and resistant
to erosion but can be expensive and may not reduce seepage as effectively
as some other materials.
Advantages of
Canal Lining:
- Water Conservation: By reducing seepage, a lined canal can
conserve water.
- Increased Capacity: A lined canal can carry more water
because less is lost to seepage and because the smoother surface can
reduce friction and increase flow rates.
- Reduced Maintenance: A lined canal is less prone to erosion
and weed growth, reducing maintenance requirements.
- Improved Durability: Lining materials can protect the canal
and make it more durable.