Caissons are specialized structures utilized in the construction industry, particularly for establishing stable foundations in environments where traditional methods are not feasible, such as underwater or in waterlogged areas. These structures are crucial in supporting the construction of bridges, piers, and large infrastructural projects by providing a stable base in otherwise unstable conditions. They are pivotal for projects requiring stability in challenging conditions.«Field trials of suction caissons in clay for offshore wind turbine foundations géotechnique»
A caisson foundation is a type of deep foundation that is constructed by placing a large, reinforced concrete cylinder or box into the ground and then filling it with concrete. It is particularly suited for underwater applications, such as bridges and piers, where it provides stability and resistance against hydrostatic pressure. The caisson is designed to reach down to a stable layer of soil or bedrock, ensuring a secure foundation that can support significant loads, including the dynamic forces exerted by water and traffic.«Applied sciences free full-text study of the lateral bearing capacity and optimization reinforcement scheme of an open caisson with consideration of soil disturbance»
In conclusion, caissons stand as a foundational engineering marvel, pivotal for constructing stable structures in challenging environments. These deep foundation elements are adept at providing the necessary support for large-scale constructions, particularly where traditional foundation methods falter. Caissons are especially beneficial in areas requiring robust underwater or soft soil support, making them indispensable in the construction of bridges, piers, and large buildings. Their versatility and reliability underscore their importance in modern engineering and construction projects.«Dynamic lateral response of suction caissons »
A caisson is kept free of water to ensure the stability and integrity of the construction site. This is crucial for creating a dry and safe environment for workers to operate in and for the concrete or other materials to set properly. Keeping water out helps in maintaining structural integrity and prevents the undermining of foundations, which could lead to catastrophic failures. The process involves sealing the caisson from water ingress, often through the use of pumping equipment and waterproofing methods.«Finite element modeling of the tensile capacity of suction caissons in cohesionless soil »
The major advantage of an open caisson is its flexibility in adapting to various underwater soil conditions. This type of caisson can be used in the construction of underwater foundations for bridges, piers, and other structures, providing a robust and reliable base. Its design allows for continuous inspection and adjustment during the descent to the desired depth, ensuring optimal placement and stability. This adaptability makes open caissons particularly valuable in challenging construction environments, where precise control over the foundation's placement is critical.«Interaction of caisson foundations with a seismically rupturing normal fault: centrifuge testing versus numerical simulation géotechnique»
Caissons can be both drilled and driven, depending on the specific requirements of the construction project and the site conditions. Drilled caissons, also known as drilled shafts, are created by excavating a hole and then filling it with concrete. This method is suitable for creating deep foundations that can bear large loads. Driven caissons, on the other hand, involve driving a prefabricated caisson into the ground using a pile driver. This method is typically faster and more cost-effective, ideal for projects where time and budget are critical factors.«Numerical simulation of caisson installation and dissipation in kaolin clay and calcareous silt bulletin of engineering geology and the environment»
Pneumatic caissons are typically used in situations where open caissons cannot be employed due to the presence of water or soft mud. They are most commonly applied in the construction of bridge piers and abutments in rivers or lakes. This technique is particularly useful in underwater construction where traditional methods are not feasible. By creating an air-tight chamber, workers can excavate and construct foundations under dry conditions, despite being below water level. The pressurized air prevents water from entering the working area, allowing construction to proceed efficiently and safely.«Numerical investigation of caisson with pad-eye stiffener installation into nonhomogeneous clay »