Those who work in the marine construction industry know the importance of boathouses. These structures provide ample space for the storage of equipment and a social gathering area. These spaces are usually built as a second story so that they do not increase the footprint of the building while still affording stunning views of the water. However, boathouses are not the only type of marine construction that can be complex. For example, docks and solid fill piers are different from boathouses, which are typically smaller and have lower footprints.
Ports
The role of ports in marine construction is growing with the global economy. More vessels are coming into the world, which increases the demand for larger and more efficient ports. KCC’s expertise spans early advisory, project development, and management, encompassing all aspects of port operations. We have completed numerous marine projects throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, including new ports and significant expansions. Here’s how we can help you with your next port project.
Ports are strategic geographical locations that serve various purposes, such as a transport hub. They facilitate the loading and unloading of cargo ships and are also the confluence point for multiple modes of transport. Ports may be either large seaports or smaller inland waterways. Their purpose is to facilitate shipping and commerce, and their depth is crucial in determining their use. Ports are often equipped with specialized fixtures such as gantry cranes to help with the loading and unloading cargo and passengers.
Docks
There are many types of docks in marine construction. For example, a pier extends into navigable water and serves as a dock, a promenade, or a harbor. Another type of dock is a swim platform, a free-floating dock used for swimming. Various machines, including a winch, are used to install or remove the dock, and one of these machines has a drum on which rope is coiled.
Floating docks are usually constructed in a protected area with calm water. Floating docks are easy to install and are typically used at marinas in safe areas. On the other hand, piling docks are built by hammering beams into the ground. Piling docks are designed to withstand substantial waves and are appropriate for tumultuous waters. Docks are a necessary part of Florida marine construction.
Dry-docking platforms
Floating dry docks are similar to big platforms, but they are constructed with special compartments filled with water and air. The vessels are then held in place by the floating dock’s operator, who opens valves to allow water into the chambers and pumps it out once the pier is underwater. Depending on the size of the vessel, several of these “U” structures may be joined together to accommodate a larger container.
In the Navy, dry docks are fortified with a roof to prevent spy satellites from taking pictures. In the case of a modern shipyard, dry docks are used to ensure uninterrupted work regardless of the weather. The cost of a covered dry dock is half that of a floating dock, but the economic life is comparable to that of a basin dock. As long as the work is done correctly, a dry dock can be cost-effective and maintain efficiency for many years.
Solid fill piers
Solid fill piers are those structures constructed to support a fill of earth behind them. These structures do not allow water to flow under them. Solid fill piers are often built on land on the sea’s edge. The fill is supported behind the structure using concrete sheet piles. A mole pier is an example of a solid fill pier. This type of pier is often used in large harbors.
Piling is another essential component of marine construction. Piling is an integral part of all structures, whether piers, docks, or other waterfront features. Piling is a common material for marine systems, but it is prone to environmental attacks. A pier’s piling is either concrete, steel, or all three. The material used should be clean and granular for a solid fill pier.
Electronic survey equipment
The seabed is a vast expanse of water. Commercial entities perform hydrographic and geophysical surveys for various purposes, from installing power cables to submarine communications. They increasingly use electronic survey equipment and acoustic imagery to determine water depth. Commercial entities may also contract with specialized survey companies to conduct the survey. This article will discuss some of the significant components of the marine construction industry and how they can benefit from using these products.
Electronic survey equipment for marine construction has dramatically simplified setting out control of marine construction projects. Accurate mapping of seabed features has made it possible to plan and execute construction projects more precisely than ever before. Multi-beam survey equipment combined with GPS systems is precise, giving the client complete peace of mind. Many of these tools are …