The fact that URETEK is a jack-of-all-trades is demonstrated by the repair of two level crossings in the Netherlands. If the concrete slab of a level crossing subsides, it is no longer safe. This causes severe disruption to both train services and other traffic. These projects were therefore urgent and were tackled swiftly and professionally by URETEK.
Rotterdam level crossing
VolkerRail approached us regarding an emergency on the railway line near Rotterdam that required an urgent solution. The so-called ‘harmelen’ slabs at a level crossing on Petriumweg had subsided significantly. A ‘harmelen’ slab is a concrete slab, 6 or 9 metres long, which bridges the difference in height between the road and the railway track. The cause of the subsidence: settlement of the Repac clay-sand soil. The underlying cause: the heavy load from rail traffic combined with a subsoil prone to settlement.
From disruption to resolution
Due to the subsidence, train services were almost subject to a speed restriction around the level crossing. This was causing delays to all train services. URETEK acted swiftly, assessed the situation and decided to apply the URETEK Floorlift® method. A height determined in advance by the surveyor was used as a reference point. In total, we raised an area of 37m² by injecting expansion resin into specially drilled holes in the concrete slab. The subsidence, which had reached a maximum of 90 millimetres, was thus literally rectified. And all in a single night’s work!
Zwolle level crossing
We were also called in to work on a level crossing on Ittersumallee in Zwolle. Here too, the sleeper slab had subsided due to settlement of the subsoil. Here too, the enormous load from passing trains proved too much for the subsoil. Strukton Rail Nederland called us in. Once again, we arrived in time and were able to prevent train services from having to slow down to protect the subsoil. Once again, the URETEK Floorlift® method was used.
URETEK: experts in every field
Whether you’re having a level crossing or a house repaired: when you choose URETEK’s foundation repair methods, you can be sure of a fast and cost-effective approach. Thanks to our injection methods, we can work very locally and precisely, and there is no need to break up floors. This minimises disruption. The work is completed within one or a few days. Furthermore, we work in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
Would you prefer to prevent damage caused by subsidence before it gets that far? Then request a no-obligation quote or contact us for more information.
