Floating Baffle Curtains

A baffle curtain is a vertical geosynthetic barrier suspended in a lagoon, pond, or basin to control water flow patterns. The curtain hangs from a flotation system at the surface and extends to the bottom using ballast weights, creating a physical barrier that redirects flow. Baffle curtains are used in wastewater treatment, potable water systems, and industrial basins to improve hydraulic efficiency and treatment performance.

Baffle curtains create a serpentine flow path through a lagoon or basin, eliminating short-circuiting where water takes the shortest route from inlet to outlet. By forcing water to travel a longer, more uniform path, baffles increase effective hydraulic retention time (HRT) by 50-80%, improve contact with treatment processes, and enhance solids settling. This means better treatment performance from your existing infrastructure without building additional capacity.

EFI fabricates baffle curtains from reinforced polypropylene (RPP) or PVC materials, depending on the application. RPP provides excellent UV stability and chemical resistance for wastewater applications. PVC offers superior flexibility for complex installations. All potable water applications use NSF 61 certified materials. Curtains are factory-fabricated with heat-welded seams for maximum strength and longevity.

Yes. EFI regularly installs baffle curtains in existing lagoons and basins that are in active service without draining or dewatering. The curtains are deployed from the surface using flotation systems, and weighted bottoms ensure the curtain hangs vertically in the water column. Most installations are completed in a few days with minimal disruption to ongoing treatment operations.

EFI baffle curtains are designed for 15 to 20 years of service life with UV-stabilized materials that resist degradation from sunlight exposure. Reinforced construction provides resistance to wind, wave action, and debris. The curtain materials and stainless steel hardware are selected for long-term compatibility with the specific chemical environment of each installation.