A cofferdam is a temporary structure that cleanly blocks flowing water, providing a safe, dry, and clean working environment.

PVC temporary water-retaining bags, also known as PVC inflatable water barriers, are flexible, portable structures designed for temporary water containment and diversion in various emergency and construction scenarios.

Constructed from high-strength, waterproof PVC (polyvinyl chloride) fabric—often reinforced with polyester mesh or fibers for enhanced tear resistance and structural stability—these bags typically feature a hollow, cylindrical or rectangular design with inlet valves for filling and outlet valves for drainage. Their robust material composition ensures resistance to UV radiation, abrasion, and mild chemical exposure, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor us.

The operational mechanism is straightforward: the empty bags are deployed in the desired location, then filled with water (or sometimes sand, depending on the model) using standard pumps or hoses. As they fill, they expand to form a rigid, contiguous barrier that effectively blocks, diverts, or retains water. Sizes vary widely, from small units for localized flooding to large, interlocking models that create extensive temporary dikes.

These versatile barriers find extensive application in emergency flood control, where they can quickly protect residential areas, infrastructure, or construction sites from rising waters. They are also used in civil engineering projects to isolate work zones in wet environments, manage stormwater runoff, create temporary reservoirs, or facilitate dewatering operations. Additionally, they serve as temporary barriers in environmental remediation efforts to contain contaminated water.

Key advantages include their portability (they can be folded compactly when empty for easy storage and transportation), rapid deployment (requiring minimal labor and equipment), and reusability across multiple projects. Unlike permanent concrete or earthen barriers, they cause little to no environmental disruption and can be easily removed once their purpose is served.

Proper deployment involves ensuring a level base, securing the bags to prevent displacement, and verifying full inflation to maintain an effective seal. When used correctly, PVC temporary water-retaining bags provide a cost-efficient, flexible solution for managing water in dynamic, time-sensitive situations.