SALEM BRIDGE CENTRE PIER

EBS HELPS BRIDGE THE GAP IN SALEM

 

EBS Geostructural Inc. was awarded the micropile scope of work for the new Salem bridge spanning the Grand River being constructed by Maclean Taylor.  The micropiles were designed to support the centre pier of the bridge located in the river.

 

WSP the structural engineer determined quantity and load requirements of the micropiles while Thurber the geotechnical engineer provided the shale bedrock characteristics.

 

The general contractor diverted the river to one side and cast a mud mat to allow access for EBS’s micopile equipment.  EBS Geostructural used it ‘s limited access micropile rig to minimize the size of mud mat and impact to the environment.

 

The structural engineer for the bridge WSP specified a total capacity in compression and lateral load for the bridge pier and EBS Geostructrural designed the micropiles to resist the required loads.

 

Sixteen (16) micropiles were installed to resist a total of 20,000 kN ULS in compression and 1,100 kN ULS in lateral load for the pier.  The micropiles were installed through the soil and embedded into the shale bedrock 4 meters (13 feet) to achieve the required capacities.  Micropiles were installed on a batter to help resist the lateral loads.  Loading capacity of the micropiles were verified with one (1) sacrificial load test to 3,000 kN.  All micropiles were completed in seven (7) working days.

 

Our experienced design team, talented crew, limited access equipment and working closely with our partners at Maclean Taylor, WSP, Thurber and Triton helped complete the project on budget and ahead of schedule.