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Inner-city construction sites can be quite a challenge when it comes to foundation techniques. Limited space, existing buildings, listed buildings and strict requirements in terms of vibrations and noise require customization and specialism. It is precisely in this type of environment that Franki Grondtechnieken shows what it is good at: specialized foundation techniques that go beyond standard pile driving.
For example, Frank Grondtechnieken used an uncommon technique in the dyke reinforcement in Tiel. Here, a sheet pile wall had to be installed right through an existing reinforced concrete culvert - something not feasible with traditional techniques. The solution, according to Jan-Wim Verhoeff, director of Franki Grondtechnieken, lay in applying overlapping bored piles. “By drilling several holes side by side, a trench was created through the concrete structure, so to speak. This trench was then filled with soil, after which the sheet piling could still be installed.”
Another great example is the work near the monumental building De Botanist in the center of Breda. On a site of only a few square meters, Franki realized a pile wall with bored piles of 80 centimeters in diameter. Verhoeff: “The challenge was not only in the limited space, but especially in the conditions underground. The piles had to be installed vibration-free and drilled through an existing foundation. But equipment and technology were such that even hard layers or rocky structures were no obstacle.”
Although the focus is often on complex and specialized projects, Franki is also active in more regular construction assignments. For example, the company is currently collaborating on a housing project in Tholen, Zeeland.
Franki Grondtechnieken is part of BESIX Group and operates within the Franki Foundations network, with branches in Belgium and France, among others. In these countries, specialized foundation techniques are often the rule rather than the exception. The international cooperation offers great advantages. For example, the company can make use of its own engineering department in Belgium, which means that smart and feasible solutions are considered at an early stage. Verhoeff: “This is an important added value. Because we have so many techniques, we offer solutions that often fit better and provide more efficient and often safer implementation methods.”
Verhoeff emphasizes the increasing importance of collaboration. Within complex projects, different parties are working together, each from their own expertise. “By joining forces, each company can do what it does best. This not only increases the quality of execution, but also makes it possible to successfully complete large and technically challenging projects.” In addition, Verhoeff sees the role of Franki Grondtechnieken increasingly shifting from executor to full-fledged construction partner. “Instead of only realizing the foundation work, we take care of the execution of the total construction pit.” The realization of the complete construction pit for the new nuclear reactor in Petten is an example of this. “Here we took on the complete coordination of the construction pit with diaphragm walls, anchors, concrete work, pile foundations, earthwork, underwater concrete and structural floor. We were able to do this thanks to the good cooperation with BESIX Nederland. This integral approach makes it possible to better manage especially complex projects and optimally align with the environment.”
