Silt curtains (also referred to as floating silt curtains, turbidity curtains, or silt booms) are floating containment barriers used to control the movement of suspended sediment in aquatic environments. They are commonly deployed during marine construction, dredging, piling, shoreline works, and excavation activities to limit sediment migration and protect surrounding waterways.
Silt curtains function by extending a weighted skirt below the water surface, allowing suspended particles to settle while maintaining water flow beneath the curtain.
Trusted by industrial operators across Australia
Available Silt Curtain Configurations
| Draft (Depth) | Float Size / Freeboard | Standard Length | Ballast Chain | Connector | Skirt Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 m | 100 mm PVC | 15 m | 6 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
| 2 m | 100 mm PVC | 15 m | 6–8 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
| 3 m | 100 mm PVC | 15 m | 6–8 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
| 1 m | 150 mm | 15 m | 8 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
| 2 m | 150 mm | 15 m | 8 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
| 4 m | 150 mm | 15 m | 8 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
| 3 m | 200 mm | 15 m | 10 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
| 4 m | 200 mm | 15 m | 10–12 mm | ASTM Z-Connector | Nonwoven 90 micron |
Standard configurations are available for a wide range of marine, dredging, and in-water construction conditions. Heavy-duty and custom options are available on request.
Technical Definitions
- Freeboard: Distance from waterline to top of float chamber
- Draft: Distance from waterline to bottom of curtain
- Skirt: Material between float and ballast chain pocket
- Ballast: Galvanised chain providing stability at the curtain base
- Connector: ASTM standard Z-connector system
Why Choose A Silt Curtain?
Effective sediment control
Designed to contain suspended silt and turbidity during in-water works, helping protect surrounding waterways.
Supports environmental compliance
construction costs and reuse the system across multiple sites.
Adaptable to site conditions
Available in multiple depths, float sizes, and ballast options to suit sheltered waters through to tidal and higher-energy environments.
Suitable for short or long-term deployment
Can be configured for temporary projects or extended installations depending on site conditions and program duration.
Types of Silt Curtains
Silt curtains are supplied in different configurations depending on water conditions, project duration, and sediment control requirements.
Standard silt curtains
Designed for general sediment control in sheltered or low-energy waterways. Suitable for many construction, dredging, and shoreline works where water movement is minimal to moderate.
Heavy-duty silt curtains
Built for higher-energy environments such as tidal waterways, exposed marine sites, and long-term deployments. These curtains typically use larger floats, heavier ballast, and reinforced skirts for added stability.
Custom silt curtains
Configured to suit specific site conditions, including non-standard depths, extended lengths, alternative skirt materials, or specialised ballast and anchoring requirements.
Typical Applications
Silt curtains are commonly used to control sediment migration during:
- Marine construction works
Jetty, bridge, marina, and shoreline construction activities. - Dredging operations
Containing suspended sediment generated during dredging to protect surrounding water quality. - Piling and marine excavation
Limiting sediment dispersion during in-water piling and excavation works. - Developments near waterways
Managing sediment runoff from construction activities adjacent to rivers, estuaries, lakes, and coastal areas. - Environmental and remediation projects
Isolating disturbed sediment during aquatic vegetation management or remediation works.
Need Guidance?
Speak with our team for clear, practical advice before making a decision.
- Unsure which option suits your site conditions
- Need confirmation before purchasing or installing
- Want clear, compliance-focused advice
No obligation • Compliance-focused advice tailored to your site
Design & Installation Considerations
The performance of a silt curtain depends on matching the curtain design to site conditions and installing it correctly.
Key design factors include:
- Float size and freeboard – affects buoyancy, visibility, and surface stability
- Skirt material and depth – determines sediment containment performance
- Ballast weight – provides stability and maintains curtain shape in moving water
- Connection method – ensures continuity between curtain sections
Installation considerations:
- Water depth, currents, and tidal movement
- Riverbed or seabed composition (sand, mud, rock)
- Anchoring and tension requirements in flowing or tidal environments
Proper assessment of these factors helps ensure the curtain remains effective throughout the project duration.
Why Trade Enviro?
- Project-appropriate supply
Silt curtains configured to suit site conditions, deployment duration, and water movement. - Built for Australian conditions
Designed for local waterways, tidal environments, and marine construction works. - Specification support
Practical guidance to help select curtain depth, ballast, and connections before deployment.