Wharf Bulkhead Behavior at Fulton Terminal 6

Abstract

Observations on a new cellular wharf bulkhead adjacent to an older similar structure provide the opportunity to assess the suitability of a newly proposed design procedure. Data are obtained that justify the use of the new procedure and demonstrate its importance through the savings of 272 Mg (300 tons) of steel on the project. The observations add significantly to the store of performance data for cellular bulkheads and cofferdams. It is shown that cellular structures can accommodate relatively large settlements and lateral movements and that a stiff concrete deck substantially minimizes differential lateral movement. Deep underwater compaction of cohesionless cell fills essentially eliminates settlement due to fill compression. Adequate forecasts of deflection of cells can be made by relatively simple methods; however, settlement forecasts on sands are less reliable.