3D Model Utilized for Large Box Culvert Project

Proform Construction Products

Springbank Hill Phase 3 is a new community in the City of Calgary that underwent large scale underground storm retentions at the design and construction stage.  This was done to mitigate future flooding and the need to upgrade existing underground infrastructure in the future thus saving costs and negative environmental impact. The use of underground, inline storage also avoided the need for the installation of a land intensive storm pond, thus keeping more of the land developable.

In order to maintain the community layout and clearances to sanitary and other services, the storm sewer lines were placed beneath the middle of a winding road. This resulted in requiring a 1200mm x 2400mm precast concrete box storm water retention line to follow the “s” curve shape of the road.  A large majority of the box units were beveled to produce the required curvature and ensure that they would follow the roadway centerline.  To help with logistical coordination, Proform's engineering team designed a digital 3D model.    

In conjunction with Blue-Con, the General Contractor of this project, Proform produced a digital 3D model showing the location of each of the 100 precast box units in the storm water retention system. This model utilized colour coding for each of the boxes belonging to their appropriate radius which was used to confirm that each beveled box was installed in the proper location and radius.  The model was also used to determine the location of each of the maintenance holes, ensuring that they would not be located between two ends of a box unit and provided the most effective use of each precast box unit.

Given the high production demands, Proform manufactured these boxes using the “dry cast” method which allows for higher production compared to wet cast. Approximately 4 to 6 boxes were produced per day. Proform also manufactured and supplied a number of beveled reinforced concrete pipe (1050mm inside diameter) for this storm sewer system.  

With the use of the digital 3D model, Urban Systems, Blue-Con and Proform were able to coordinate production, delivery and install of the required boxes without causing unnecessary delays on site and was key to ensuring that the project remained on schedule and in line with the design requirements.

Photo credit: Blue-Con Excavating Ltd.

This article is taken from the Fall 2021 Concrete Pipe and Precast Journal published by CCPPA. Read the original article.