The journey to construct our 10 metre pedestrian bridge has reached an exciting milestone as we complete the crucial foundation phase, following the successful installation and concrete filling of our piles. Our team has now moved onto developing the solid foundations that will support the entire structure for years to come.
Creating a solid foundation
After thoroughly preparing the site and filling the holes with high quality concrete, we begin the important process of pouring the concrete base. This foundation serves as the bridge’s back bone, distributing the weight evenly across the piles and providing stability against lateral forces such as wind and water current. The base required precise measurements and careful implementation to ensure perfect alignment with the planned bridge positioning.
Custom cage and shuttering system
One of the unique challenges of this project has been the consistently high-water levels at the site. Our engineering team designed a specialised reinforcement cage that provides optimal structural integrity while working within the constraints of the environment. The custom shuttering system we’ve implemented deserves a special mention, it was engineered to be completely watertight, preventing water infiltration during the crucial concrete curing process.
Precision under pressure
The installation process demanded extraordinary precision. Our experienced team carefully positioned each component of the reinforcement cage, ensuring perfect alignment with the previously installed piles. The shuttering system was meticulously sealed and braced, to withstand the pressure from both wet concrete and the surrounding water.
Quality control
Throughout the entire process, our quality control measures remained rigorous. We conducted continuous testing of the concrete mixture to verify its strength properties and workability. The shuttering system underwent multiple inspections to confirm its watertight integrity, before any concrete was poured.
Looking ahead
With the foundation now in place and curing to its full strength, we are preparing for the next exciting phase of the project, the installation of the bridge superstructure. This will transform the site from a construction zone into the beginnings of a recognizable pedestrian crossing.
At Rhino Piling, our commitment to quality precision and overcoming environmental challenges, is what sets us apart as we proudly say “we get you out of the ground”.
