Bureau of Reclamation A competition seeking innovative designs for a rapid-deploying, high-pressure seal capable of controlling failed dam conduits is underway, with the goal of turning potentially catastrophic emergencies into manageable incidents.
On behalf of the Bureau of Reclamation and with the support of the NASA Tournament Lab, HeroX launched the “Seal Team Fix Challenge” last month, with $575,000 in prizes at stake.
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When primary gates controlling large water conduits fail – whether due to mechanical issues, debris, or system faults – thousands of cubic feet of water can surge uncontrolled, threatening public safety, storage, and power generation.
The challenge calls on engineers, fabricators, inventors, and creative problem-solvers to design a temporary seal that can be deployed underwater in conduits ranging from 3 to 25 feet in diameter. The solution must withstand high differential pressures and reduce flow by 95%–98% – all without relying on trash racks or other nonstructural surfaces for support.
"When a gate fails, rapid, reliable intervention is critical to protect downstream communities, conserve water resources, and maintain control of vital infrastructure," said Christine VanZomeren, the prize competition administrator for Reclamation, in a news release.
