Transnet Capital Projects (TCP) was appointed by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to undertake a research and development study and structural assessment of Berth 208, Richards Bay harbour, to fnd out if the structure would be able to handle bigger vessels. Berth 208 was designed by TCP (Protekon) and constructed by Stefanutti Stocks Marine in 2008. Te structure was designed for a 50-year period based on a 50 000 DWT tanker. Te quay wall is an open, suspended deck on a piled concrete structure. Te assessment was based on visual observations, historical data and fnite modelling of the existing structure. Loads that would be imposed by bigger vessels (55 000 DWT to 75 000 DWT) were calculated and applied. Hollow steel sections with infll reinforced concrete were used to form composite piles. Te used beams were pre-stressed, due to their longer spans, to reduce the number of piles. Figure 1 shows a cross-section of the structure. Te research fndings indicate that the structure is in sound condition, and will be able to handle bigger vessels up to 75 000 DWT.
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