Numerical Modeling for Deepening in Front of Gravity Quay Wall
Case study: Alexandira port – Berth 65

Omar Gamal1, Yasser. El Sayed Mostafa2, Ayman Fayed3, Morad Hamed4
Page No. 1-27

The focus of this paper is on examining various methods of enhancing quay walls to support the handling of larger vessels with increased drafts. The emergence of bigger ships necessitates upgrades in ports, including improvements in infrastructure, berths, and navigation channels. The primary objective of this research is to investigate different structural options available for the deepening of existing quays to facilitate the accommodation of these new categories of sizable vessels. These alternatives aim to address the discrepancy in bed levels resulting from the deepening process while ensuring successful operation. A numerical modeling study (PLAXIS, 2020) was conducted to investigate the deepening of a block-type quay wall in Alexandria port, Egypt. The study focused on two different techniques and their effects on factors such as global factor of safety, straining actions (bending moment, shear, normal), and deformation of the proposed shoring system. Two solutions were explored to deepen the quay wall while ensuring its overall stability. The first solution involved an anchored diaphragm wall with a tie connected to a back barrette, while the second proposed solution featured a diaphragm wall anchored by a relief slab supported by two rows of piles and a barrette. A comparison between the two proposed solutions was conducted to evaluate their effectiveness. please rephrase and shorten this paragraph, from main conclusion of this comparison is that second alternative is recommended in case of high loads, especially high surcharge loads, or the presence of gantry cranes. This recommendation is based on the advantages offered by the second alternative, which include the ability to minimize the significant lateral pressure exerted on the diaphragm wall also first alternative has low cost particularly when compared to the second alternative. This cost advantage stems from the relatively lower construction expenses associated with the connecting elements between the diaphragm wall and the barrette. In contrast, the second alternative incurs significantly higher costs due to the construction requirements for elements such as the relief slab and the two rows of piles.
Keywords: quay wall, deepening, PLAXIS, Diaphragm, anchoring, F.O.S, Straining actions