Published: 06/11/2024

Leading manufacturer of flexible thermoplastic products, Structure-flex, are celebrating 10 years manufacturing the fast flood defence system, Mobildeich, in the UK.

The Anglo-German flood defence system, originally developed in Germany, has partnered with Norfolk-based Structure-flex to manufacture its core components since 2014.

“10 years ago, Mobildeich turned to our specialist knowledge of flexible thermoplastics and high frequency welding techniques to manufacture their innovative flood defence system. We’re proud to play our part in helping save people and property from the effects of flooding across Europe” says Paul Reeve, Managing Director of Structure-flex.

Mobildeich consists of a series of flexible tubes that are filled with water and positioned against any area that flood water threatens, providing a barrier for flood waters up to 3.5m high.

The patented orange membrane holds the filled tubes together and in place by utilising the weight of the flood water itself, ensuring the barrier remains firmly in place even if the water level rises above it.

This is where Mobildeich’s unique design differs from similar systems, since many competing flood defences can be at risk of floating away if water levels exceed 70% of the height of the barrier.

“Mobildeich is used by environment agencies, local authorities and emergency services because it's far easier to deploy, use and store than sandbags. It’s delivered rolled-up on a metal frame and can be established in under an hour by rolling it out and filling it with mains water or flood water using a pump” adds Paul.

Since its introduction in 2002, Mobildeich has been widely used across Europe for its efficiency and effectiveness. It’s now being considered by local authorities in Britain for use alongside their existing flood defence strategies. 

With more heavy rainfall forecast across England over the autumn months, the need for reliable flood protection has never been more urgent.

“It has been a year for wet weather and, with warnings of more rain on the way, flooding is more of a risk than ever. It seems fitting that we celebrate 10 years of this innovative flood defence system at a time we need it most” concludes Paul.

Structure-flex manufacture a diverse range of products from flexible thermoplastic, such as bulk packaging, proof test bags and air lift bags, which are bonded together using high frequency welding.

As well as being the UK’s leading supplier of lorry tension curtains, Structure-flex also deliver a wide range of digital printing from vehicle graphics, to wallpaper wraps and advertising boards.

More details of Structure-flex can be found at https://www.structure-flex.co.uk/