Corpus Christi, TX

Port of Corpus Christi, Dock Fender Optimization Study

Scope/Solutions

As part of a program intended to protect the existing marine infrastructure assets, the Port of Corpus Christi Authority (PCCA) wanted to upgrade the fender systems at twenty-one docks along both banks of the port’s inner harbor channel, which are equipped for a wide variety of vessels, ranging from barges to large 165,000 DWT tankers. SGH conducted a study to review the existing infrastructure and provide recommendations for improving the fender systems at eleven oil docks, three solid bulk handling docks, and seven general cargo docks.

SGH worked with PCCA to understand the existing conditions and berthing operations. We visited the site to observe the existing fender systems and the fender-supporting structures, reviewed a detailed vessel berthing data log along with inspection reports and dock designs by others, and identified deficiencies in the existing fender systems.

We then undertook an evaluation to help PCCA plan for the work. Highlights include:

  • Developing site-oriented fender design criteria specific to PCCA’s needs and operations
  • Performing berthing analyses to understand the demands on the fenders and supporting structures
  • Conducting probabilistic analysis of the vessel traffic and associated berthing energies to optimize our fender evaluation
  • Evaluating fender systems options for different dock typologies
  • Providing recommendations for fender repairs and replacements, helping PCCA to optimize the designs and plan for the work

Project Summary

Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation
Services
Structures
Markets
Infrastructure & Transportation
Client(s)
Port of Corpus Christi
Specialized Capabilities
Repair & Strengthening | Marine & Civil Works

Key team members

Carlos E. Ospina
Senior Principal
281.505.5559 ceospina@sgh.com

Additional Projects

South

Lake Livingston Hydroelectric Plant

East Texas Electric Cooperative (ETEC) commissioned construction of a new hydroelectric plant at the site of the fifty-year-old Lake Livingston Dam, an approximately 2.5 mi earthen embankment that impounds a water supply reservoir. The project included constructing an intake structure at the embankment, three reinforced concrete penstocks, and a powerhouse on the downstream side of the existing spillway and along the Trinity River. SGH provided engineering services during construction of the hydroelectric plant and continues to serve as the chief dam safety engineer, as required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
Explore
South

Precast Concrete Arch

A precast concrete arch allowed mine vehicles to pass over U.S. Highway 191. A few months after the buried bridge was put into service, the mine operator observed separation of the headwall panels and longitudinal cracks in the highway. They retained SGH to investigate the bridge's condition.
Explore
See All Projects