VesaliusLeuven

What was the customer’s request?

A large construction pit with a circumference of about 400 m had to be realised by means of secant pile walls with excavation depths from 10 to 11.5 metres. Also, a further 75 foundation piles had to be constructed for the sections with no cellars underneath.

What technical challenges did the project pose?

Only a limited soil survey was available, with insufficient depth with respect to the excavations and foundations that were to be realised.

Moreover, the pile wall had to be constructed in tightly compacted, highly draining sand. This soil type makes the installation of reinforcement very difficult indeed.

Furthermore, considering the scope of the project, only a limited period was available for executing the earth-retaining structures.

How did CVR tackle it?

On commencement, CVR advised on the necessary additional soil surveys and coordinated them. This provided more clarity regarding the dimensions of the earth-retaining structures and foundation piles, and the risk areas could more easily be kept to a minimum. This enabled us to limit project costs significantly.

To counter the possibility of installing reinforcement, CVR used its years of experience on sites in the surrounding area. In close consultation with the concrete mixing plant, the concrete recipe was perfected to allow quick installation of the reinforcement.

In order to meet the tight execution period, we employed two pile drilling machines and in constant and close consultation, we collaborated closely with the other parties to limit the duration to a minimum.

What was the end result?

Thanks to the close collaboration, the foundation and sheeting activities could be completed within a period of three and a half months. Our secant pile wall was also executed well within the applicable execution tolerances.

This all resulted in a satisfied customer.