Sheet pile walls are retaining structures designed to hold back earth, water, or other fill materials. Constructed from rolled steel, they are quick to install, durable, and can be made watertight, making them the preferred choice for port and harbour walls.
Advancements in the marine industry during the 1960s led to widespread updates of the nation’s infrastructure. Much of this is now reaching the end of its design life, meaning many UK ports and harbours are faced with the need to repair or replace their structures.
If you manage a port or marina, it is important to monitor the condition of your sheet pile walls so you can plan effectively for remedial works or eventual replacement.
AWA’s experienced marine engineers carry out inspections both above and below the waterline. During a sheet pile wall inspection, our service includes taking ultrasonic thickness readings to determine how much steel remains compared with the original specification. This allows us to assess the wall’s current capacity and advise on the appropriate remedial works.
With extensive knowledge of corrosion mechanisms that can rapidly deplete steel, our engineers know exactly what to look for. For example, Microbiologically Induced Corrosion (MIC) can cause almost 1 mm of steel loss per year — if missed, this can prove extremely costly.
Following inspection, clients receive a clear overview of the wall’s condition and the recommended next steps.
Wherever possible, our approach is to prioritise remedial solutions that extend the lifespan of a structure at a fraction of the cost of full replacement.
One common point of failure in sheet pile walls is the tie rod connection, which is highly exposed to the marine environment. The tie rod connects back to a ground anchor, helping to hold the wall at the correct angle.
Following an inspection of a marina’s sheet pile wall on the South Coast, AWA designed a new tie rod connection. Our engineers confirmed that the wall itself retained sufficient structural capacity, meaning only the tie rod required replacement. This solution cost the client approximately £50k — far less than the estimated £700k needed to replace 80 metres of sheet pile wall.
As with any structure, regular protection and maintenance will help extend the life of sheet pile walls. By engaging a marine engineer to carry
out dive surveys, you can schedule routine inspections, identify required maintenance, and put effective care measures in place.
For increased protection:
Sacrificial anodes can be installed to reduce corrosion. These safeguard the steel by corroding in its place, forming part of a cathodic protection system that exploits the natural potential difference between two metals.
Protective coatings applied to the steel form a barrier against the harsh marine environment. Our team can recommend reputable products suited to your site conditions.
AWA provides a complete inspection, specification and remedial design service for existing marine infrastructure. With long-standing relationships with manufacturers and contractors, we can help ensure the entire project is delivered successfully.
Our highly qualified engineers have delivered projects for clients including the RNLI, Boatfolk, and Wightlink. Whatever the scale or complexity, you can be confident your marine structures are in safe hands.
AWA Consulting Engineers is a structural, civil, and marine engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.
Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.
AWA has technical teams in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients typically across the South, South East and South West.
Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.
To find out more about how AWA Consulting Engineers can help with your project, get in touch today. Email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team.
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