Two specialists present total package

At InfraTech 2019, BodemBouw, specializing in Cutter Soil Mix (CSM) technology, and Key Staal, manufacturer of steel outrigger frames, shared a booth not entirely by accident. In fact, both companies work closely together on many projects, but also each have their own firsts in store for InfraTech. Or rather, two world firsts!

As a specialist in making CSM walls especially for building pits in an (inner) urban environment, BodemBouw relies on Key Staal's expertise for the supply of outrigger frames in nine out of ten projects. "This combination means that a construction pit can be safely excavated without groundwater inflow or any soil displacement," says Djordy van den Eijnde of BodemBouw. "We both focus on only one technique, but combine it in a total package to achieve an optimal result with only one point of contact for the client. In this combination we have realized some wonderful projects. But our scope extends further. The infrastructure sector beckons."

Construction pit with CSM walls all around, one side grout anchors and a horizontal outrigger frame on Scheveningen Boulevard. (Image: Mijntje Wismans)

Dike reinforcement
BodemBouw dominates the real estate market with the CSM technique, but meanwhile has a strong focus on the infrastructure sector as well. "We have developed a concept for improving and strengthening dikes using a SoilMix technique," explains Van den Eijnde. "Several (pilot) projects have already been carried out by competitor companies in this field, applying different techniques, but the best solution both practically and economically, is not there yet. Especially the hard gravelly soil layers are a concern for many of the current techniques. We have developed a machine that is capable of using the SoilMix technique to economically improve dikes. Using this machine, we can create seepage barriers from cement and bentonite at the toe or on the dike to prevent 'piping'." Piping is a common failure mechanism in dikes, in which water flows through a sand layer under the dike to the other side of the dike, with all its consequences. "On the other hand, the SoilMix technique also lends itself to reinforcing dikes by applying a structural wall on the dike or in the toe of the dike completely vibration-free with a cement product and a certain type of reinforcement." 

Modular stamping frames
Van den Eijnde does not reveal the composition of the structural wall in the dike. "During InfraTech we will further reveal the latest techniques. The combination of techniques and machines means we can improve and reinforce dikes much faster and more effectively." The knowledge of reinforcement is not only present at BodemBouw, but also very emphatically at Key Staal. "We specialize in designing and manufacturing outrigger frames, from small to very large projects but especially outrigger frames with larger outrigger forces," says Jan van de Coterlet of Key Staal. "With that, we take away a lot of headaches for contractors. Personnel (welders) are becoming increasingly scarce and the requirements are constantly increasing. With this in mind, we are presenting at InfraTech the world's first modular outrigger frame with outriggers up to 900 tons. We deliver it to the construction site as a kit and build it together, saving the contractor considerable time. There is almost no more welding on the construction site. The modular outrigger frame is CE approved and manufactured under execution class 3." In addition to the modular outrigger frame, Key Staal will also present a prototype modular anchor purlin at InfraTech that Van de Coterlet says is flexible enough to accommodate varying center-to-center distances and slope angles.

In addition to these spectacular innovations, the two specialists will present what they can offer in the field of underground construction in such areas as sewage projects, underpasses, tunnels, wind farms, etc.

Construction pit with surrounding CSM walls and a horizontal outrigger frame in Amsterdam's Houthaven. (Image: Mijntje Wismans)