Bunker performance is only as good as the sand that goes into it. But all sand is not created equally.
The wrong sand, or degraded sand can lead to a host of issues in golf course bunker performance. For superintendents who want help, or at least confirmation, in choosing the right sand for any of a variety of golf course projects, Capillary Flow recently launched an AI tool that helps remove the guesswork from the selection process.
Capillary Flow’s AI Sand Agent deciphers sand analysis reports, generates easy-to-read gradation curves and compares them to industry standards in a matter of seconds to help superintendents choose a product that meets the specific needs of any project.
Capillary Flow’s AI Sand Agent deciphers sand analysis reports to help make sand selection easier for superintendents.
Factors such as particle hardness and shape, composition and color greatly influence sand performance, stability and drainage. Sand analysis reports that quantify these factors come in many versions: metric or imperial, in passing particles or retained particles. This language can be difficult to evaluate. The Capillary Flow tool allows users to see the gradation curve, which makes it easier to compare a product to industry standards and other sands during the selection process.
The USGA guidelines for particle size distribution can be plotted on a curve that illustrates how any given sand compares to the range recommended, and therefore show the sand’s ability to drain or hold moisture.
Users can upload numbers manually, or drag and drop an analysis report into the calculator. In a matter of seconds, the calculator generates data to help superintendents make the correct sand choice.
The Capillary Flow tool compares specific sands to recognized industry standards.
Bunker performance hinges on precise sand management, with moisture content playing a pivotal role in playability and maintenance. Although USGA guidelines provide a framework for selecting and installing sand, maintaining its quality over time remains a significant challenge.
Sand performance declines over time due to the following factors:
- Sand movement within the bunker
- Contamination
- Natural degradation
Degraded sand or the wrong sand can lead to a host of performance issues:
- Wet floors
- Inconsistent moisture
- Layering within the bunker sand column
- Discoloration
- Poor playability
- Player dissatisfaction
- Increased maintenance costs
The tool stores previous analysis results for future reference and comparison.
Stop by booth 2014 at the GCSAA Conference & Show in San Diego to get more information about the Sand Agent.
Capillary Flow offers a variety of products and services and moisture-management solutions for a variety of markets including golf, athletic fields, equestrian facilities and public areas.
