Suction Caisson Technology
Suction caisson technology has been around for many years and is one of the most
environmentally friendly forms of marine foundation as there is no piling or dredging
required. It is also very easy to decommission, which is essentially just the reverse of
installation.
These qualities were proven by CLP in May 2008 when a full scale suction caisson
tension test was performed at the proposed site.
Suction caissons only work in certain ground conditions. Our investigations into the
ground conditions at the proposed site revealed that the site is suitable for suction
caisson technology.
How does it work?
The caisson is essentially an inverted can, which goes into the seabed through a
combination of gravity and water pressure. Water is slowly pumped out from the caisson
and this creates a pressure difference between the inside of the caisson and the outside
water, which acts to push the foundation into the seabed.
This pumping happens slowly, at the rate of approx 2-10meters per hour, the upshot of
which is very little sediment disturbance. To remove the caisson the pump is re-applied,
water is pumped back into the caisson and a crane is used to then pull the caisson back
to the surface, ensuring easy decommissioning and no residual impact on the
environment.
Suction Caisson Installation
Suction caisson technology has been around for many years and is one of the most
environmentally friendly forms of marine foundation as there is no piling or dredging
required. It is also very easy to decommission, which is essentially just the reverse of
installation.
These qualities were proven by CLP in May 2008 when a full scale suction caisson
tension test was performed at the proposed site.
Suction caissons only work in certain ground conditions. Our investigations into the
ground conditions at the proposed site revealed that the site is suitable for suction
caisson technology.
How does it work?
The caisson is essentially an inverted can, which goes into the seabed through a
combination of gravity and water pressure. Water is slowly pumped out from the caisson
and this creates a pressure difference between the inside of the caisson and the outside
water, which acts to push the foundation into the seabed.
This pumping happens slowly, at the rate of approx 2-10meters per hour, the upshot of
which is very little sediment disturbance. To remove the caisson the pump is re-applied,
water is pumped back into the caisson and a crane is used to then pull the caisson back
to the surface, ensuring easy decommissioning and no residual impact on the
environment.
Suction Caisson Installation
A suction caisson
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