SNOW RETENTION PROTECTION BARRIER

Avalanche Protection Strategies Currently, various methods exist for avalanche protection. The simplest solution is land-use planning—avoiding hazardous areas during the initial development phase. Another effective measure is the implementation of early warning systems to alert the population of impending events. However, the most widely adopted strategies are active measures (artificial triggering) and passive measures (engineering structures). Among all structural protection types, snow retention barriers are the most cost-effective solution.

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Operating Principle Snow retention barriers are installed in the avalanche starting zone and act against static loads exerted by the full depth of the snow cover. The ring net mesh forms a plane perpendicular to the direction of the snow gliding down the slope. Consequently, the entire snow mass is held stationary within the starting zone, preventing avalanche initiation.

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Design & Placement Barrier height is determined based on the mean maximum snow depth for the specific area. It is crucial to account for starting zones subject to wind transport (snow drift); in these areas, the barriers also function as snow fences, potentially causing snow accumulation to exceed calculated or observed values. Barriers are installed in continuous rows from edge to edge of the starting zone. The spacing between rows is calculated based on snow depth, slope steepness, and the glide factor of the underlying surface.

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Geobarrier Structural Features The core element of the Geobarrier system is a trapezoidal ring net panel, woven from rings with diameters of 250 mm and 350 mm. The panels are secured to the tops of hinged posts and tensioned via guy ropes attached to anchors with flexible heads. The hinged connection between the post and its base plate ensures the flexibility and elasticity of the entire structure.

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Compliance Standards The Geobarrier design incorporates best international practices and fully complies with the "Guidelines for Avalanche Prevention Structures in the Starting Area" (Edition 04/2007) issued by the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL).

Dual Protection (Rockfall Resistance) By utilizing flexible ring nets rather than traditional cable net panels, Geobarrier engineers have achieved maximum structural resilience against impact loads from rockfalls. These often originate from the rock-and-ice cornices located above the barrier installation zone in standard avalanche catchments. This durability significantly reduces maintenance requirements in difficult-to-access terrain—a factor of paramount importance.