sediment bypass tunnel
From Underfoot
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USACE staff investigate the Pfaffensprung sediment bypass tunnel in Switzerland. This critical piece of infrastructure flushes material from the dam’s pool, which can include sediment and larger matter.
The Pfaffensprung sediment bypass tunnel is visible from above the dam and the outlet. This infrastructure has been in use for over 100 years and continues to provide flood protection and hydropower for the surrounding communities.
Wear can be seen on granite pavers in the Pfaffensprung tunnel where the movement of particles through water has caused a groove to form in the material.


