Equipment Powering the Raritan River Bridge Replacement Project
The Raritan River Bridge replacement project required heavy-duty machinery capable of handling the most challenging tasks, such as deep foundation work, pile driving, and handling complex structural components. For this, George Harms Construction Co. relied on advanced equipment from International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) and hydraulic systems powered by Hydrauli-Flex Hoses.
Here’s a breakdown of the key equipment involved:
ICE® 200C Vibratory Hammer
One of the core pieces of equipment used on the project is the ICE® 200C Vibratory Hammer. This powerful machine is designed for driving large piles and caissons into the riverbed, which is crucial for the deep foundation work required for the new bridge. For the Raritan River project, George Harms Construction used the ICE® 200C to drive 102" diameter caissons with lengths up to 140 feet. The ICE® 200C is known for its high efficiency and ability to handle the most demanding tasks in challenging conditions.
ICE® 33B Vibratory Hammer
For smaller pile applications, the ICE® 33B Vibratory Hammer was also used. This model is more compact but still provides the power necessary for driving pipe piles in tighter spaces. It’s an ideal piece of equipment for substructure work, where precision and maneuverability are key. Its versatility made it the perfect choice for various applications across the project site.
ICE® 7E Excavator-Mounted Hydraulic Vibratory Driver/Extractor
The ICE® 7E is an excavator-mounted vibratory driver/extractor. This equipment was particularly valuable for driving sheet piles, which were necessary for the construction of temporary trestles to support the bridgework. The ICE® 7E uses a high-performance hydraulic system that ensures the vibratory driver operates with maximum efficiency.
In addition to its impressive pile-driving capabilities, the 7E features a Gooseneck extension, which allows it to extend its reach and handle longer piles. This feature proved essential for tasks that required an extended boom, such as driving piles in harder-to-reach areas of the riverbanks.
Hydrauli-Flex Hoses: Ensuring Efficiency and Durability
Behind the operation of these machines were the Hydrauli-Flex Hoses from The Hose Company, which were essential for the hydraulic systems powering the vibratory hammers and excavators. These hoses are designed to withstand extreme pressures and harsh environments, making them a perfect fit for construction projects where machinery is pushed to its limits.
Hydrauli-Flex Hoses provide high flexibility, allowing the equipment to perform tasks like driving piles, drilling deep shafts, and lifting heavy components without failure. Their durability ensures that the ICE® equipment could keep running smoothly in demanding conditions, allowing contractors to maintain their project schedules and complete the work efficiently.
Equipment Role in Key Project Phases
Pile Driving: The ICE® 200C and ICE® 33B vibratory hammers were crucial in driving large and smaller piles into the ground. This process was essential for creating the solid foundations needed to support the new bridge. The equipment needed to be powerful enough to handle the dense, challenging soil and rock conditions found in the riverbed.
Sheet Pile Installation: The ICE® 7E Excavator-Mounted Driver/Extractor, paired with its Gooseneck extension, was used to drive sheet piles for temporary trestles that provided access to the construction site. The Gooseneck extension allowed contractors to work with longer piles and reach difficult spots along the riverbanks.
Substructure Work: For substructure installation, the ICE® 200C was used to install deep caissons up to 140 feet long. These massive piles form the foundation of the bridge’s support structure. The equipment’s reliability and precision in such deep and challenging conditions were essential to the success of this phase.
Conclusion
The Raritan River Bridge replacement project is a massive undertaking, requiring state-of-the-art equipment to complete the job. ICE® machinery, including the 200C, 33B, and 7E, has proven to be indispensable in performing critical tasks like pile driving, caisson installation, and foundation work. These machines, powered by Hydrauli-Flex Hoses, were key to the project's efficiency and effectiveness, allowing George Harms Construction Co. to meet the rigorous demands of this high-profile project.
If you’re looking for high-performance hydraulic hoses or reliable construction equipment for your next project, The Hose Company has you covered.
