The Backyard Shop
StartupPrototypeGrow

Startup prototype: modular floodgate system

A hardware startup built a floodgate prototype with our incubator mentors and fabrication shop.

Tools

  • Waterjet partner shop
  • CNC mill
  • Torque testing

Materials

  • Stainless steel
  • EPDM gasket
  • Powder coat

Outcomes

  • Prototype tested at 12 PSI
  • Design revisions logged

Channel Bridge joined the incubator to validate a modular floodgate that could be installed by a two-person crew. The team needed to test gasket performance and latch strength.

Prototype build

We coordinated with a local waterjet shop for the main panels and finished critical features on our CNC mill to maintain tolerance.

Testing results

The first build leaked at the latch seam under 10 PSI. We increased the gasket compression surface by 2mm and added a second latch.

What we learned

Field testing early reduces expensive iterations later in production.

Gallery

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