• Numerical Modelling / Soil-Structure-Interaction
• Pipeline Research
• Measurement Instrumentation                            

Numerical Modelling

A major focus of our company is soil-structure-interaction analysis which is the combined study of geotechnical and structural engineering.  Soil-structure-interaction is a complex field of study and in many cases requires the application of computer aided design solutions such as the finite element method.  We have extensive experience in finite element analysis providing cost-effective solutions to our clients worldwide in the following applications:

• Soil-structure-interaction systems
• Buried pipes of all material types
• Metal and reinforced concrete culverts
• Cut-and-cover tunnels
• Settlement predictions

CandeCAD Pro (Culvert ANalysis and DEsign inside AutoCAD) is a specialized finite element software application developed specifically for the design, analysis and evaluation of buried pipes, culverts and other soil-structure interaction systems. CandeCAD Pro incorporates the widely used and accepted finite element source code of CANDE developed under sponsorship of the United States Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Pipeline Research

We are able to provide water utilities and pipeline manufacturers with unique services relating to pipeline research due to our extensive experience in the pipeline industry both from a theoretical and practical point of view.  Our company has conducted a state-of-the-art review for Rand Water as part of the proposed Clarens-Johannesburg Pipeline Project involving twin 3 130 mm O. D. Thin-walled steel pipelines each 250 km long approximately. 

The project focused on:

• Review of current state-of-the-art design and installation practice of large-diameter steel pipelines,
• Conducting extensive pre- and post-test numerical modelling using advanced finite different and finite element computer programmes,
• Investigating pipe manufacture, handling and transportation effects,
• Conducting and monitoring full-scale buried pipe tests on 3 130 mm O.D. test pipes of both plain wall and stiffened (i.e., circumferentially stiffened with trapezoidal stiffeners), and
• Developing recommendations for improved design and construction of large-diameter pipelines.

Earlier research conducted during post-graduate studies by the founding director involved investigations of buried flexible and rigid pipes and large-span flexible metal and rigid concrete culverts.  Research included soil-structure interaction under earth and live load conditions.

Recommended Specifications for Large-Span Culverts, (United States) 1996 – 1998,

The objective of this project was to develop reliability-based design specifications and construction criteria, for flexible and rigid large-span culverts. 

A comprehensive review was made of the design and construction of flexible metal and rigid reinforced concrete large-span culverts, past documented field experience of monitored culvert performance, and culvert failures.  Full-scale testing of a flexible metal and a reinforced concrete large-span culvert was conducted and the results compared with finite element computer analyses.  Based on this work recommendations for improved design and construction of large-span culverts were developed.

Fundamentals of Buried Pipe Installation, (United States) 1994-1996.

The project evaluated current installation procedures and specification practices for buried pipelines.  Laboratory tests and full-scale field tests were conducted on reinforced concrete, corrugated and profile wall polyethylene, and corrugated steel pipe.  The full-scale field tests (total of 14) were analysed with a finite element (FE) computer programme.

Measurement Instrumentation

Our company offers specialized services to develop, install and monitor state-of-the-art measurement instrumentation for the civil and mining engineering industries.  Measurement instrumentation, selected by a systematic planning process called an instrumentation monitoring programme, is an invaluable tool to monitor performance usually during the construction or operation phase of a project.

In general, measurement instrumentation provides the following benefits during any civil and mining engineering project:

a) Benefits During Design

• Defining the site conditions (i.e., groundwater, in situ stress)
• Proof testing to verify adequacy of design
• Fact-finding in crisis situations

b) Benefits During Construction

• Safety
• Construction control
• Providing legal protection
• Measurement of fill quantities on soft foundations
• Enhancing public relations
• Advancing the state-of-the-art
• Observational method utilizing advance planning for various anticipated outcomes

c) Benefits after Construction

• Long-term safety

d) Services Offered:

• Development of instrumentation monitoring programmes
• Installation and calibration of measurement instrumentation
• Data collection, processing, analysis and reporting
• Monitoring structural performance
• New instrument design