“The challenge with this project – in addition to working in a
riverbed – is that 64 of these piles need to be installed under
the existing bridge deck in a ‘low headroom’ condition.”
– Jeff Bird, Forefront Deep Foundations
“Due to the fact that there was only 23 feet of headroom to
install 55-foot-long piles, we had to think ‘out of the box’ to develop
a method that would allow the piles to be installed in the least
amount of pieces possible,” he said.
The solution was to utilize a combination of methods. For
example, a “fin” was welded on the side of the beams so that the
vibratory hammer could grab the pile from the side to be driven.
A specialty hydraulic hammer was utilized to drive the piles that
have significantly less height than a typical diesel impact hammer.
Forefront also custom fabricated a “jib” with a winch to hang off
the end of the forklift, which held the vibratory hammer.
“Thanks to the creative minds of the Forefront team, we were
able to come up with an innovative and successful solution,”
said Bird.
Additionally, in order to construct new footing under the existing
bridge footings, the bridge had to be temporarily supported
by an engineered support system that was also supported on
driven piles.
“After this was installed, the ‘new footing’ was excavated, which
was four feet below the existing footing,” said Bird. “This resulted in
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
a 10-foot excavation from original grade. Due to the excavation, we
had to come up with a way that allowed low profile equipment to
be extended out over the excavation to install the new HP 14x117
piles. Our solution was to custom fabricate a ‘jib’ for this.”
Dynamic testing was also utilized to confirm the capacity
and validate the method of pile installation at the beginning of
the project.
Additionally, Forefront Deep Foundations hired several apprentices
on the project, which allowed them to “get their feet wet in
driving piles in challenging conditions,” adds Bird.
“We understand the importance of training apprentices and are
honored to aid the apprentices and our industry in this manner.”
What’s next?
As a new PDCA member – having joined just a year ago – Bird is
excited about what the future holds.
“We see that being involved in the PDCA allows us to learn and
share with others in our trade on various techniques, methods and
issues. It also allows us to contribute what we can that we hope will
benefit our industry as a whole.” t
/ Superior Service
/ Competitive Rates
/ Open Communication
Robert Loyde, CTB
Owner/Managing Member
0: 888-627-1367
F: 888-383-5712
M: 985-264-6720
robert@poydraslogistics.com
www.poydraslogistics.com
4430 S I-10 Service Rd W, Ste 208
Metairie, LA 70001
USA
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