leakkanalen

Leakkanalen are drainage channels designed to collect and convey seepage water away from soils or structures. The term, from Dutch lek (leak) and kanaal (canal), is used in civil engineering and water management to describe channels that intercept and remove unwanted groundwater or leakage from foundations, embankments, tunnels, and other constructions. They help reduce pore-water pressure, prevent water accumulation, and protect built works.

In operation, leakkanalen are typically placed along known seepage paths or at the base of structures. They may run as shallow or deep trenches, lined with geotextile and filled with gravel or other media, and connected to a perforated pipe network that directs water to a discharge outlet or drainage system. Depending on head and drainage requirements, water may flow by gravity or be pumped to an external water body.

Applications of leakkanalen include seepage control for dams and levees, drainage around tunnel and subway linings, dewatering in open-pit mines or construction excavations, and management of moisture around basements or underground facilities.

Construction and maintenance generally involve trenching, installation of a filtration and drainage assembly, proper backfilling, and ensuring secure outlets. Regular inspection is recommended to clear sediment, verify integrity of joints, and prevent blockages that could compromise drainage capacity.

Variants and related concepts are often referred to as seepage drains, toe drains, or drainage trenches, depending on regional terminology and specific design practices.