Technical concrete innovation as a solution

Within the combination Kade 2.020, Koninklijke Oosterhof Holman contacted Sterk Beton to participate in the concept phase for the application of so-called Easy Flow precast concrete elements for renewal of the quay walls in Amsterdam. Director Hennie Smit explains.

Sterk Beton embarked on a preparatory process with the client to come up with a concrete element that matched the wishes and needs as closely as possible. Hennie: "For two years we went through an intensive process of far-reaching cooperation on a technical level. A complicated process that posed an enormous challenge for us. Different technical solutions had to be brought together in the elements. After all, they had to be able to absorb large forces, but at the same time also be manufacturable and manageable."

Thinking about installation

Sterk Beton's Easy Flow concrete elements are a structural element. The company realizes and delivers the elements, but also thought about the installation. Hennie: "Our job is also to keep watching and, within the LEAN concept of Kade 2.020, to get better every 5 meters. If wishes arise during the process, we adjust the elements. And so there is a lot of expertise behind the new masonry quay walls."

During the replacement process, piles are first drilled into the quay. Then a slice of the existing masonry is cut off at the waterfront. For the quay wall, new piles are straightened on which the concrete elements are placed. Brace piles are also installed to transfer the horizontal forces to the foundation.

Hennie: "We deliver the concrete elements made in our factory to Amsterdam-North. From there, they are transported to the project site by electric ship. A special lifting pontoon was developed for this purpose, aptly named Powerhouse. This pontoon pushes element by element against the quay and places them on the piles. An innovative technique from offshore is applied to connect the piles and elements."

If the process goes off without a hitch, no one from Strong Concrete needs to be on the job. However, the company has been asked to monitor the whole thing with some regularity and to contribute its thoughts. But basically Sterk Beton is merely the supplier of the specially constructed concrete elements.

Special elements

"Custom work," Hennie emphasizes, "which we apply in construction, civil engineering, industry and every conceivable structure we can hoist. We often make special elements and this quay element is a good example of that. Regardless of the client, we use our experience to arrive at the best technical solution."

From its expertise, Sterk Beton was approached by Oosterhof Holman. The proposals for the concrete element turned out to be the most realistic and the feeling with the method was good, so the contractor drew the conclusion that Sterk Beton was the right party for him to realize the concept. The rough outlines of the elements were conceived, but a suitable supplier was sought for the detailing.

Hennie: "This is the way we are involved in many projects. Providing knowledge and products that are not standard. For example, we also make bridge piers and facade elements for construction; I often compare it to Lego on a large scale."

About Quay 2.020: "I think it's a revolutionary approach to making quay solutions. A traditional method causes a lot of nuisance in the city. Nuisances that are largely prevented by technical innovation. Furthermore, we meet ecological requirements by making holes of different diameters in the elements for various animal species."

Amsterdam has stuck its neck out to enter into innovative partnerships with market participants.