TBS-SVA introduces innovative systems for water buffering and infiltration

At a time when extreme rainfall and periods of drought are rapidly alternating, smart water management is becoming increasingly important. Preventing flooding and replenishing groundwater reserves are important measures for climate resilience. Willy Bruckers, commercial director of the TBS-SVA Group, explains how the latest techniques for water buffering and infiltration - supported by the growing AquaCare product line - contribute to a sustainable future.

The power of water buffering and infiltration

"Water buffering and infiltration are two key processes in modern water management," Willy begins. "Whereas water buffering ensures that excess rainwater is effectively stored to avoid overloading the sewer system, infiltration ensures that groundwater is replenished to combat heat stress and dehydration." These processes play an increasingly important role, especially as we face more intense rainfall due to climate change. TBS-SVA therefore offers systems that support both processes. "Often we combine them to optimally support the water cycle," he explains.

The wadi dirt trap inflow gully allows water to flow cleaner into a wadi.

Water buffering: controlled handling of peak downpours

TBS-SVA's buffer solutions range from simple, concrete cisterns to high-end systems with submersible pumps and floats, ideal for watering gardens. "For single-family homes, we have systems that allow rainwater to be stored to water the garden, for example," Willy explains. "When the well is full, the excess water can be directed to the sewer system via an overflow or, even better, to an infiltration well that allows the water to drain into the soil in a controlled manner."

For situations where space is limited, such as under driveways or in densely built-up urban areas, TBS-SVA has developed the Infilo. "The Infilo pit is only 70 centimeters high and fits easily in narrow spaces," Willy said. "This compact solution makes it possible to store rainwater and dispose of it in a controlled way, without having to dig deeper wells."

The Aqua O slow cistern. The system has an outlet construction that can be built into a concrete well and is linkable, allowing multiple buffer tanks to be built.

Infiltration: returning water to the soil

In addition to buffering, TBS-SVA offers a wide range of infiltration solutions that allow rainwater to gradually infiltrate into the soil. This prevents dehydration and helps maintain groundwater levels, which are essential to combat heat stress during dry periods. Willy explains: "Our infiltration systems consist of perforated manholes and porous concrete structures that allow water to sink into the soil in a controlled manner. This not only relieves the sewer system, but also provides a stable replenishment of groundwater."

An innovation in the product offering is the combination well, which buffers water as well as infiltrates it. "The lower part of the pit acts as a sand trap and buffer volume, while the upper, porous part allows infiltration," Willy explains. "This combination well provides a robust solution for both urban and green environments - from private homes to government buildings - and can withstand heavy loads depending on the model."

A growing range of climate adaptive solutions

"Many people know us from gullies, manhole covers and gutters, but our range of climate adaptive solutions has now grown considerably," Willy said. The new AquaCare microsite offers architects and engineering firms a complete platform for climate adaptive products. "The goal is to offer a comprehensive package for buffering, infiltration and sustainable water management solutions that contribute to a climate-resilient environment."

AquaCare's distinguishing feature lies in its collaboration with specialists such as DDC AquaCare, who work closely with landscape architects. "We want these products to quickly find their way to the projects where they make the most difference. The collaboration with DDC has boosted the launch of AquaCare and ensures that we are strong within the civil engineering sector with our range."

Solutions for a wide range of applications

With products like the Perfo, a perforated pit that can store up to 20,000 liters, and more compact infiltration systems like the Infilo, TBS-SVA offers solutions for both private homes and large-scale infrastructure projects. "Our products are designed for a variety of applications, from green areas and parking lots to city parks and business parks," Willy says. "By buffering and infiltrating water, we contribute to the sustainable design of outdoor spaces, with solutions that fit every project and environment." TBS-SVA's products are designed to withstand heavy loads and are available in a variety of designs, ranging from light traffic to D400 ratings for more intensive use. "Whether it is a natural area, a busy downtown area, or a green park; we offer a suitable system for every application."

Looking ahead to InfraTech 2025

In January, TBS-SVA will present its latest solutions at InfraTech 2025, an important opportunity to showcase its extensive range of products. "This event gives us the opportunity to show how we offer sustainable water management solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges with innovative systems," said Willy. "We are proud of our contribution to climate-adaptive water solutions and look forward to presenting our latest developments to a wide audience."

With an ever-growing range of products for water buffering and infiltration, and continued innovation in climate-adaptive products, TBS-SVA remains committed to sustainable and effective water management - from home to large infrastructure project.