COS Access Tunnel Strengthening Frames
Project: The strengthening of the existing access tunnel to prevent further collapse due to the impact of stockpile loading and machine movement overhead by designing, fabricating and installing metal frame supports.
Problem: Over time, the corrugated sheeting walls forming the 2.4m Dia., 66m long Access Tunnel from the Feed Conveyer to the outer edge of the stockpile had become distorted by +300mm in places due to loading and movement of overhead traffic. Untreated, the tunnel walls would eventually weaken to the point of collapse rendering the tunnel inaccessible and/or seriously harming or causing death to any person within the tunnel.
Solution: To fabricate a series of steel structural frames to be inserted at set points along the entire length of the tunnel in order to bear the weight of the overhead loads. The frames required pre-fabrication to a specific size to enable galvanising prior to installation. Once installed, all frames would be grouted in place to ensure no future movement of the tunnel walls and ensuring a safe passage way was maintained between the conveyor and safe exit.
Tunnel Reinforcement
Tunnel Reinforcement
Tunnel Reinforcement
Tunnel Reinforcement
Tunnel Reinforcement
Tunnel Reinforcement
Tunnel Reinforcement
Tunnel Reinforcement