Design Build Fender System and Panelized Construction

The Port Allen grain terminal on the west bank of the Mississippi was designed and constructed to operate at varying water levels and in changing river currents. Each year, the level of the Mississippi River fluctuates approximately 45 feet (nearly 14 meters) and wind speeds can reach 110 mph (177 kmh). This paper discusses the design, detailing, and construction of three fender systems that will enable the facility to continue to operate in this challenging environment. Each fender system designed for the terminal has a specific purpose. The first serves fully loaded barge berthing operations. This system uses timber beams spanning to driven-steel fender piles. This system absorbs the berthing energy of the tugboat-delivered barge. The second consists of barge slipway fenders located along opposing faces of the two support platforms. This system uses timber beams spanning to wide flange vertical strong backs supported by structural plumb piles and the support platforms. This system guides the barge through the unloading process. The third system provides berthing energy and mooring force resistance for the export vessel. This system is constructed of ultra-high molecular weight material fastened to a steel plate spanning to a pair of fender piles. Traditionally, when platforms are constructed or fender systems are assembled in this region, projects use barge-mounted cranes, man lifts, and in-water divers. Because all of three of these fender systems use panelized design and detailing techniques, the contractor can assemble their components on land or on a barge and attach them to the concrete support platform in large sections. This method all but eliminates inwater work by divers and minimizes the time required to erect the nearly 1,200 linear feet (365.7 linear meters) of the fender systems. All in all, this is an innovative way to deliver a constructible, cost-effective solution.