Case Study: Piling & Allied Works in Kamrup, Guwahati – Ocean Non Wovens’ Contribution

Introduction

In the field of civil engineering, effective piling solutions are critical to the stability and longevity of large-scale infrastructure projects. For the Piling & Allied Works project under GSCL (Guwahati Smart City Limited) in Kamrup, Guwahati, our company, Ocean Non Wovens, played a pivotal role. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of geosynthetic solutions, we contributed our expertise and supplied 1000 Sqm of 13mm Drain Board, an essential component that ensures proper water drainage around the piling areas, enhancing soil stability and project durability. This case study delves into the specific needs of the GSCL project, the role of drain boards in piling, and the unique aspects of our approach that made this project a success.

Understanding Piling and Allied Works in GSCL Projects

Piling forms the backbone of structural stability, especially in areas with challenging soil conditions. For urban development projects like those overseen by GSCL in Guwahati, piling is critical to ensure the load-bearing capacity of foundations, supporting structures like buildings, bridges, and roads. It involves driving large columns, typically made of concrete, steel, or wood, into the ground to reach stable soil or bedrock.

In addition to piling, the “allied works” encompass activities like soil excavation, retaining wall construction, and ground improvement techniques to prepare the site for further construction. The primary goal is to create a firm base for the infrastructure to withstand external forces like groundwater pressure and seismic activity.

Challenges of Piling in Kamrup, Guwahati

Kamrup’s terrain presents unique challenges for piling works, including high rainfall, fluctuating water tables, and soil prone to erosion. Excess water accumulation around the piling zones can compromise soil integrity, potentially causing settlement issues or structural failures over time. Thus, efficient drainage solutions become vital during the piling process to maintain soil stability and prevent waterlogging.

Role of Drain Boards in Piling and Allied Works

Drain boards are geosynthetic materials designed to facilitate controlled water flow, playing a crucial role in the drainage system of construction projects. They are composed of a structured core, often made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), with a filter fabric layer. This design allows water to pass through while preventing soil particles from clogging the drainage channels.

For the GSCL project in Kamrup, we supplied 1000 Sqm of 13mm Drain Board. These boards were installed adjacent to the piling structures to provide a seamless drainage pathway for any water accumulating around the foundations. This solution ensured that water seepage from surrounding soils was managed effectively, thus reducing hydrostatic pressure on the piling structures and preventing soil erosion.

Key Benefits of Using 13mm Drain Boards

1. Enhanced Soil Stability: The 13mm Drain Board ensures that water does not accumulate around the piling zones, preventing soil loosening and maintaining compaction.
2. Longevity of Structures: By managing groundwater movement, these boards contribute to the longevity of structures built on piles, reducing the risk of water-induced damage.
3. Cost Efficiency: Effective drainage reduces the need for expensive dewatering processes and additional soil stabilization techniques, making it a cost-effective solution for large-scale projects.

Unique Insights: Why Drain Boards Are Often Overlooked in Piling Projects

While drain boards are a critical component in many construction projects, they are often undervalued or overlooked due to a focus on primary materials like piles or retaining walls. However, the importance of managing subsurface water cannot be understated, especially in regions like Kamrup where the soil composition and high water table pose persistent challenges. Here’s why drain boards should be a priority in piling projects:

1. Impact on Groundwater Movement: A well-designed drainage system, including drain boards, can alter the way groundwater moves around the piling area. This is crucial in areas where fluctuating water tables can exert pressure on the foundation, potentially causing structural shifts over time.
2. Prevention of Soil Erosion: When water is not properly managed, it can carry away fine particles from the soil, leading to erosion. Drain boards mitigate this by allowing a controlled path for water, preserving the soil structure and reducing risks of subsidence.
3. Minimizing Waterlogging Issues: Waterlogged soil can increase the load on piling structures, leading to uneven settlement. Our 13mm drain boards helped ensure that water was efficiently channeled away from the piling zones, maintaining uniform load distribution.

The Installation Process of Drain Boards

For the GSCL project, the installation of our 13mm Drain Board was carried out meticulously:
1. Preparation of Substratum: Before the installation, the substratum was prepared by leveling the soil around the piling area.
2. Placement of Drain Boards: The boards were placed with the filter fabric facing the soil, allowing water to enter the structured core while keeping soil particles out.
3. Overlay with Geotextiles: To enhance durability, we overlaid the drain boards with geotextiles, adding an extra layer of filtration to prevent clogging over time.
4. Inspection and Testing: Post-installation, we conducted water flow tests to ensure the efficiency of the drainage system, ensuring that the boards performed to their optimal capacity.

Data-Driven Insights into Drain Board Performance

Studies have shown that drain boards can reduce the hydrostatic pressure on retaining walls and piling structures by up to 30% in high-rainfall areas. In similar projects, effective drainage solutions have been linked to a 20-25% increase in the lifespan of the structural foundation. By reducing water retention in the soil, drain boards contribute significantly to maintaining the load-bearing capacity of piles over time.

In the GSCL project, the use of our 13mm Drain Board allowed the construction team to manage water flow effectively, reducing downtime caused by water-related issues and ensuring that the project remained on schedule.

Why Ocean Non Wovens Stands Out in Geosynthetics Solutions

At Ocean Non Wovens, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, tailored geosynthetic solutions that address the specific needs of each project. Our 13mm Drain Boards have been engineered to provide superior drainage performance, contributing to the overall stability and durability of the Piling & Allied Works in Kamrup, Guwahati.

Our expertise extends beyond just supplying products; we provide on-site support and guidance to ensure that our materials are utilized effectively. This approach ensures that our clients, like those working under GSCL, achieve optimal results in terms of performance, durability, and cost-efficiency. Whether you’re working on a large infrastructure project or a smaller construction initiative, Ocean Non Wovens has the geosynthetic solutions you need to succeed.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about how our innovative geosynthetics products, like the 13mm Drain Board, can elevate the quality and durability of your next construction project. Trust Ocean Non Wovens for reliable, efficient, and sustainable solutions tailored to your project needs.

References

1. Hydrostatic Pressure Reduction in Retaining Walls Using Geosynthetic Drainage Solutions – [Journal of Geotechnical Engineering]
2. Effects of Groundwater Management on Foundation Stability – [Construction Materials Review]
3. Improving Soil Compaction through Geosynthetics – [Civil Engineering Insights]