Technical Commentary

The staff of Consult Marine have made some interesting observations over the last two decades, mostly with regard to the correlation of theory & practice.
Some concise technical commentary & photos are presented below. They bring to light a few quirks from the unique & wonderful world of marine construction.

Underwater Concreting

The tremie method is a simple, yet effective way of placing concrete underwater. A gravity-fed tremie consists of a rigid

Underwater Inspection of Piles

Sometimes defects in either steel or timber piles are not evident above water (refer to photos – courtesy of Polaris

Underwater Vacuuming

During underwater foundation preparation, it is sometimes necessary to provide a perfectly prepared and clean surface. This may require bulk

Underwater Power Tools

Underwater construction requires the use of specialised tools. Hydraulic-powered tools are often used due to their relative longevity and safety.

Plastic Bar Chairs

Use of either steel or plastic bar chairs is generally avoided in reinforced concrete marine structures. Plastic is generally difficult

Pile Splice Connections

Splicing is a common method used to repair defective timber piles in the marine environment. A pile splice involves replacement

Stainless Steel Reinforcement

Stainless steel reinforcement is sometimes used in marine structures. Often when a long service life is desired, or where the

Raking of Sandstone Seawalls

Raking of sandstone seawalls may be readily achieved by stepping the courses. Each successive course of blockwork is back-set some

Marine Borers – Teredinids

Arguably, the most destructive marine borer is the Teredinid (also known as Ship worm). Evidence of Ship worm is sometimes

Marine Borers – Pholads

Pholads are marine borers from the mollusc family. Martesia Striata (refer to photo) is a commonly found Pholad. It is

Marine Borers – Isopods

The destructive work of Isopods is one of the most easily recognisable of marine borers. Examples of Isopods are Limnoria

Inorganic Coating of Steel Piles

Cathodic protection (CP) may be used on immersed steel piles to protect them from corrosion below mean sea level. A

Accelerated Low Water Corrosion

Accelerated Low Water Corrosion (ALWC) can affect unprotected marine steelwork within the lower portion of the tidal zone. It is

Timber Piling into Rock

Driving timber piles into rock can be problematic. There is usually no option but to displacement drive the pile into