Project Scope

Soletanche Bachy Canada partnered with Pomerleau Inc. to deliver the foundation works for a new deep-water, multi-use marine dock at the Port of Sept-Îles. Designed to accommodate two Chinamax vessels simultaneously, the project formed part of one of the largest deep-water port developments of its kind in North America.

Solution

Soletanche Bachy Canada delivered large-diameter driven piles, up to 1.8 m in diameter and 63 m in length, installed from marine plant and socketed into bedrock to achieve the required capacity. Both vertical and battered piles were used to support the dock structure.

When the actual rock strength exceeded initial assumptions, the team quickly designed and manufactured custom drilling tools and adapted the drilling system to maintain progress. The rock interlocking was achieved using a Berminghammer BHD-80 reverse circulation drilling system, capable of applying the high thrust forces required in extremely hard rock.

The work continued through two challenging winter seasons. To meet environmental requirements during whale mating seasons, the team implemented a custom air bubbler system and underwater noise monitoring system, allowing the work to proceed safely and responsibly.

Owner:
Port of Sept-Îles

Dates of work:
2012

Location:
Sept-Îles, QC

Market:
Marine

Techniques:
Driven Piles

Bored Piles (Caisson)

Project Outcome

This project demonstrates our ability to deliver critical foundation and shoring works within a large, fast-paced energy infrastructure program.

By integrating safely into a complex construction environment and coordinating closely with the project team, Soletanche Bachy Canada supported efficient excavation and construction while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and execution.

Key takeaways