Wide range of hydraulic engineering structures

Hydraulic engineering comprises all the structures of our waterways, such as locks, weir systems and bank slopes as well as over and underpasses crossing canals. Furthermore, structures in harbours and on coasts, such as quays, are typical hydraulic engineering structures.

Long lifespan of hydraulic engineering structures

These are often very solid reinforced concrete constructions which, in contrast to normal reinforced concrete structures, have been built to last for a much longer time or are currently being built or planned accordingly.

Concrete compositions decisive for the durability of the structures

When building new hydraulic engineering structures, the concrete-related challenges are great with regard to the large component sizes, for example in the choice of concrete composition to limit the formation of cracks due to the development of hydration heat. With regard to the demands on durability, the challenges faced by hydraulic engineering structures are primarily frost and, in the seawater area, frost/thawing salt (sea salt).

Adjustment of old-aged and present-day building materials

When planning the repair of existing hydraulic engineering structures a special feature worth noting is that we are dealing with much older structures than usually found in most other areas of construction. The properties of these old building materials may differ from those of present-day building materials. Based on exemplary tests on the existing structure the new repair materials therefore have to be adjusted carefully to the characteristics of the aged building materials.