A shoring cell was required in order to repair an existing 28” steel utility pipe. Driven wide flange beams were determined to be the most economical system for two primary reasons. One, when loose, wet caving soils are present the installer does not have to be concerned with the cost to case a drilled shaft. Secondly, because the beams are closely spaced, plywood was be used in lieu of timber lagging. Plywood may be installed quickly plus it provides a better barrier to water infiltration compared to traditional timber lagging.
McDowell NW Pile King installed 32 each W6x25 beams 20’ deep placed 2’ on center. Inch and a half plywood sheeting was placed between the beams in lieu of traditional timber lagging. The overall excavation was in excess of 12’ deep. The shoring system held back a 9’ deep cut and the remaining 3’-4’ excavation above the wall was sloped back 1H:1V.