Gabion bridge bulkhead
Gabion bridge bulkhead
(OP)
we are consdiering a gabion bulkhead (6'w x 21' L x 9'h) to support a rail car bridge. Rock may not be available. Will gabion strength be compromised if gravel (2" minus) is used with reiforcement grade geotextile basket lining? Max truck load is 100 tons. Most loads under 50 tons.





RE: Gabion bridge bulkhead
A large part of the strength of gabions (in that type of application) is the interlocking between the crushed rock fragments. Using sub-rounded gravel that is smaller than 2 inches (50 mm) won't give you anywhere near the same performance.
Please see FAQ731-376 for great suggestions on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.
RE: Gabion bridge bulkhead
Keithe J. Merl
RE: Gabion bridge bulkhead
Please see FAQ731-376 for great suggestions on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.
RE: Gabion bridge bulkhead
Keithe J. Merl
RE: Gabion bridge bulkhead
I'd be very concerned about the friction between the gravel and geotextile. It might work, but would take an awful lot of geotextile - particularly for a 9 foot high wall. Too bad the gravel isn't larger; I'd suggest running it through a crusher first.
I also thought about setting up a pug mill on-site and producing low-grade concrete (like RCC.) But round rock might not work too well, and the cost would be pretty high. Still, it might be cheaper than importing more appropriate materials, or constructing an inverted T retaining wall.
Please see FAQ731-376 for great suggestions on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.
RE: Gabion bridge bulkhead
Keithe J. Merl
RE: Gabion bridge bulkhead