Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) Techniques for Heavy Lift (HL) & Materials Off-Loading Facility (MOF)

Abstract

This paper explores how Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) strategies developed for regions of moderate to high seismicity are suitable for heavy-lift construction logistics wharves intended to serve new industrial projects such as LNG terminals in British Columbia. Many industrial facilities require a heavy lift construction logistics wharf for off-loading construction equipment and large preassembled process modules weighing thousands of tonnes each. The logistics wharf is often needed early in the project construction sequence, favouring the use of expedited construction techniques, consistent with maintaining suitable design and seismic performance criteria. This paper highlights aspects of the engineering design of the Heavy Lift (HL) Materials Off-loading Facility (MOF) to serve as a multipurpose deep water logistics wharf. The MOF will accommodate the simultaneous berthing of two large vessels: a RO/RO vessel, to accommodate multiaxle Self Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMT) off-loaded by the stern; and a heavy lift general cargo vessel berthed on its side. BACKGROUND Several new LNG export terminals are currently proposed along the northern coast of British Columbia. Most such projects require a logistics wharf or MOF for offloading prefabricated plant modules and construction equipment. The MOF is generally required early in the construction sequence and is often on the critical path, and therefore ideally suited for accelerated type construction techniques which optimize construction, schedule, supply and costs. This paper describes a general design criteria for a MOF facility and the principles of the design that may apply broadly to many other facilities facing similar requirements, and can thus be readily adapted to other projects. The design was completed in 6 months and the planned construction duration is 9 months. To maximize the flexibility of the logistics, the proposed facility needed to accommodate two large vessels simultaneously: a RO/RO vessel, offloaded by the stern; and a heavy lift vessel berthed on its side. In addition, the MOF needed to accommodate a range of smaller barges to offload construction supplies and equipment.