A quay wall project at a glance

The HZ®-M/AZ® Combined Wall System is a high-performance combi-wall primarily used for port structures, and deep excavations where exceptional strength of the retaining wall is required.

King piles

HZ-M king piles are the main structural components which carry most bending of loads due to arching effect. In addition, the HZ-M king piles can also act as bearing piles.

Infill piles

AZ® steel sheet piles serve as secondary or infill sheet piles in the HZ-M combined wall system. The infill sheet piles ensure a continuous wall, retaining the soil and transfering loads to the HZ-M king piles. These lighter elements allow for economical design.

Installation in water

Installation of the HZ-M system is fully possible in open waters, making it ideal for marine and fluvial environments. The sheet piles can be driven using suitable methods for submerged conditions, with sealing options available for watertight applications. Additional measures such as coating and cathodic protection could ensure a long lasting structure.

Barge for installation on water

A barge is commonly used as a floating platform for installing HZ-M/AZ combined walls in water, allowing positioning, driving, and alignment of piles from the water side. It supports cranes, driving equipment and templates for safe and accurate installation.

Template for driving

A driving template ensures precise positioning, spacing, and verticality during HZ-M combined wall installation. It initially guides the king piles, then supports the placement of infill sheet piles. Templates are temporarily used and  essential for guaranteeing the geometry and verticality of the combi-wall.

Pilgrim's step driving sequence

This is a staged installation method where piles are driven in steps or "pilgrim steps" to maintain alignment and minimize driving imperfections. It involves partial driving of king piles and infill sheet piles alternately, to ensure verticality and proper interlock engagement. This technique is particularly useful for HZ-M/AZ combined walls to achieve accurate positioning in challenging soil or water conditions.

Tie rods (anchoring system)

Tie rods are tension elements transferring the forces from the main retaining wall to the rear anchor wall (or Deadman). Their main purpose is to reduce bending moments and deflections of the front wall.

Backfill

Backfill is placed behind the sheet piles wall to create the retained soil mass and apply design loads. Backfill is typically compacted in layers to achieve the required density and stability. Adequate backfilling ensures long-term performance by distributing pressures evenly to the retaining structure.

Capping beams

Capping beam is a structure on top of the sheet pile wall to distribute loads, stabilize the wall, and create a level platform. They also protect against corrosion in marine environments especially at the splash zone. Contact ArcelorMittal Sheet Piling for technical support and download design software like AMRetain™ on our website.

Picture courtesy of Pomerleau.
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