loosen and unwind under wave agitation. Eventually, an end unit may fall away if the nut unwinds
completely.
The structure performs best at a site with a firm bottom and generally not only protects the
shoreline from high waves, but also builds up the beach. of course, potential downdrift damages should
be carefully considered. Also, the six-foot height of the panels limits them to relatively shallow water.
Surgebreaker. A Surgebreaker is a modular device constructed with 3,700-pound, precast,
reinforced concrete modules with vent holes to release wave pressure buildup. The patented triangular
modules are 4 feet high x 7 feet wide. They are designed to be placed side-by-side on the existing bottom
with the flatter sloped face of the device toward the waves (Figure 41). Installation must be performed
by a franchised contractor.
Sandgrabber. A patented configuration of interconnected concrete construction blocks, a
Sandgrabber is a device that allows for some differential settlement of the blocks by using U-shaped,
galvanized-steel connecting rods (Figure 42). The hollow blocks allow waves to wash sand through,
trapping the coarser water-borne particles behind the structure. The Sandgrabber must be installed by a
licensed-franchised contractor.
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