Allelys made significant strides in the Grand Surrey Canal project in London by successfully transporting and installing 15 precast concrete arch sections. Each section, weighing 17.5 tons and stretching up to 11.4 meters in length, was meticulously handled by Allelys’ team using their advanced fleet of specialist equipment.
This project posed a unique challenge: installing the concrete sections beneath an existing historic railway bridge. Precision and careful planning were paramount. The engineering team at Allelys was tasked with developing a solution that ensured every arch section was placed with meticulous accuracy.
To tackle the challenge, the team identified Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs) as the best transport arrangement. These transporters provided the necessary flexibility and precision. A 160-ton mobile telescopic crane was employed to load each arch section onto a 6-axle SPMT. The hydraulic controls of the SPMT allowed for millimeter-level adjustments, ensuring that each arch section was perfectly positioned.
Maintaining the stability of the load during transport was crucial. To achieve this, bespoke timber packers were fabricated in-house to match the unique profile of each arch. This custom solution was vital for protecting the structural integrity of the arches throughout the transportation and installation process.
Neil Jones, Senior Commercial Manager at Allelys, highlighted the importance of teamwork and innovative problem-solving in this project. “Collaboration and innovative problem solving were key to developing this unique solution, ensuring that the project was executed as safely and precisely as planned,” Jones explained.
The completion of this phase marks a significant milestone in the Grand Surrey Canal project. The next step will involve removing the main bridge beam from the existing overhead structure. This will pave the way for constructing the new bridge deck section, further advancing the project’s progress.
Allelys’ involvement in the Grand Surrey Canal project showcases their expertise in handling complex logistics and engineering challenges. Their ability to deliver precise and innovative solutions ensures the successful execution of such intricate projects, contributing to the overall development and infrastructure enhancement in the region
