Main Requirements for Caisson Construction

Caisson construction is primarily used in underwater construction projects. The caisson is a watertight structure that acts like an anchor for the foundation of the project. For building a fixed structure that has its foundation underwater, for example, a pier, a caisson is used at the base of this structure on the floor of the water body.

It is critical in construction because a caisson provides stability. The ground shifts under the weight of a new structure and a caisson is used to distribute the weight of this structure evenly. Caisson construction is usually done with the help of concrete, steel or wood. The material used to build the caisson is based on the type of caisson being constructed. Types of Caissons There are two main types of caissons used in construction: Open Caissons These are open at the bottom as well as the top. Open caissons have heavy walls with sharp edges. They help with the facilitation of the sinking process. They can be constructed to the depths of 50 metres or more. Pneumatic Caissons They are closed at the top but open at the bottom. Compressed air is used to throw the water out. This creates an airtight working chamber to execute excavation. Pneumatic caissons work best when excavating wet ground in the open is not possible.They are constructed when the depth is more than 100 metres. Conditions Involved in Caisson Construction The main factors of consideration involved in the construction and transfer of caissons include the form of the caissons, the method of installation being used as well as the structural behaviour. The engineers and designers involved in the construction process are concerned with these factors when it comes to foundation conditions. There are also other issues that need to be addressed regarding the structural component design, construction and installation, such as: 1. The level of the water table 2. The nature of the soil 3 .Maximum depth of scour 4. The geometry of the caisson based on the mass that facilitates the sinking as well as the configuration of the substructure components that need to be supported 5. Overall stability of the caisson 6. Bearing capacity of the strata 7. Durability Requirements for Caisson Construction There are various requirements for caisson construction,, including their sinking, sealing and filling. Factors like the height of the concrete lifts and length of the vertical reinforcement bars and splices need to be decided. This should only be done after consulting with the contractor to ensure optimal facilitation of operations. There are a lot of stresses, forces and dangers that the personnel face during the sinking and when they are in service. This means that the monitoring staff needs to pay special attention to the quality of materials used, as well as ensure they meet all the contractor’s specifications. The main requirements that need to be paid attention to are: 1. Concrete mix design in reference to early strength 2. Concrete cover for reinforcement on the outsides of the shaft 3. Quality and compliance with the formwork on the outer surfaces of the shaft. They can reduce or increase skin friction resistance to the soil significantly 4. Quality of the joints in the concrete that can be subjected to stresses at beginning stages of concrete strength gain There are many standards involved in caisson construction to ensure employee safety. These standards are usually governed by the contractor with the engineers and designers, and implemented by the monitoring staff.

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