DESIGN OF FOUNDATIONS AND SUPPORT STRUCTURES

The design of foundations and support structures such as retaining walls is a frequent component of D'Appolonia engineering projects. We routinely design shallow and deep foundations to fit subsurface conditions. We devise and conduct field exploration programs to obtain data to guide foundation selection, and our experience with construction schedules and labor and materials costs enables us to select constructable, cost-effective foundation alternatives considering the design loading, subsurface conditions and schedule and cost constraints. We routinely design retaining walls to for temporary excavation support and for long-term stabilization of embankments and cuts. We are familiar with a wide spectrum of retaining wall options utilizing anchors, soil nails, geosynthetic reinforcement and other technologies. We have worked closely with specialty contractors in the design and construction of these structures. Our experience with retaining wall design and construction enables us to develop economical solutions that accomodate difficult site conditions.



Temporary foundation support designed by D'Appolonia for large-diameter piping at a hydroelectric plant.



Descriptions of D'Appolonia projects related to design of foundations and support structures are provided in the following:


EXAMPLE PROJECTS


Excavation Support Systems for Saluda Dam Rehabilitation (PDF-1558K)

D'Appolonia was retained to design temporary retaining structures related to construction activities at Saluda Dam. Work performed by D'Appolonia included (1) design of two anchored tie-back wall sections totaling nearly 500 feet in length, (2) anchoring of an existing concrete retaining wall located behind the hydroelectric plant, (3) support for two anchor blocks supporting the circulating water lines for the hydroelectric plant, (4) design of two temporary cut-off walls, and (5) design of two temporary soil nail walls.

Emergency Foundation Support and Long-Term Stabilization (PDF-993K)

Following the failure of some major facility foundations at an electric power plant due to the collapse of a large-diameter subsurface pipe, D’Appolonia was retained to develop and manage the implementation of emergency remedial measures to temporarily support and in the long-term to restore the function of affected structures.

Engineering for Low-Head Hydroelectric Power Installations (PDF-718K)

D'Appolonia was retained to assess the site development requirements for low-head hydropower installations at two lock and dam sites on the Allegheny River near Pittsburgh, PA. The work included flood routing studies to evaluate the effects of temporary river restriction resulting from temporary cofferdams and permanent facility construction.

Consulting Services for Innovative Lock and Dam Replacement (PDF-1138K)

D'Appolonia was responsible for design of foundations, an under-base drainage system, and alignment mooring elements for the new Braddock Dam, which was constructed using innovative float-in construction technology.


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