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constrution technology lec 5

Uploaded by

Akum oben
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
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Institut Universitaire et Stratégique de l’Estuaire

(IUEs/Insam)

SPECIALTY: CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

COURSE: CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY


LECTURER: Mr. Akum Oben T.
LECTURE 5

PROCEDURE FOR EARTHWORKS


Excavation, Backfilling & Compaction

Objective
The objective of this lesson is to define the methodology for execution of earthworks particularly on
excavation backfilling and compaction. To describe the sequence of activities, utilization of resources to
meet project specifications & contractual obligations.
Earthworks Equipments
The following equipments are involved:
• Bulldozer
• Excavator
• Loader
• Grader
• Roller and blade Compactor
• Water tanker
• Dump trucks
• Backhoe
• Jack/ Hydraulic Hammer
Execution
Site Preparation
1) Clearing and Grubbing
Clearing and grubbing involves of the removal and disposal of trees, stumps, roots, vegetation,
logs, rubbish, and other unsuitable material.
2) Excavations
Excavation is the process of removing earth, rock, or other materials from a construction site to
create space, establish foundations, and install utilities. Excavation is a common part of
construction projects. It is performed after clearing and stripping has been completed. Excavations
begins from the setting out done by the surveyor in accordance to the horizontal and vertical control
points provided by the engineer. Excavation is performed as required by the design drawings to
the dimensions, grades, and elevations as noted and as required for formwork and allowance for
compaction equipment.
Types of Excavation
➢ Topsoil excavation: Removing the top layer of soil, which is often kept on-site for
landscaping
➢ Earth excavation: Removing soil beneath the topsoil and on top of rock
➢ Rock excavation: Removing hard, compacted, or cemented materials, which may require
specialized equipment and techniques like blasting or drilling
➢ Muck excavation: Removing soil and water from construction sites to ensure a stable
foundation
➢ Cut and fill excavation: Cutting down higher areas of the construction site and using the
material to fill lower areas to create a level surface
➢ Trench excavation: Digging long, narrow channels into the ground for laying pipelines,
cables, or conduits
➢ Basement excavation: Digging larger areas to create underground spaces, typically for
basements
➢ Dredging: Excavating sediments and debris from underwater to allow boats and ships to
pass
➢ Exploration Excavation: Used for exploration, environmental restoration, and mining.

Environmental Considerations
➢ Care and special treatment must be done for contaminated soils within the construction
limits. If unexpected soil contamination is encountered during the work, the Contractor
must make notification
➢ Ensure that all slopes and other areas subject to erosion shall be controlled during
construction using permanent support measures.
➢ Dust control measures during construction.
Safety Considerations
➢ Avoiding damage to all existing facilities. Unless otherwise specified.
➢ Maintaining in good condition temporary fences, guardrails, barricades, lights, shoring,
bracing, and other protective measures required for the safety of personnel
➢ Avoiding damage to all existing facilities. Unless otherwise specified, any damage by the
Contractor during performance of the work shall be repaired or replaced by the Contractor.
➢ Excavations adjacent to existing underground installations (e.g., piping, manholes,
electrical and duct banks) or sidewalks shall use bracing and shoring to protect those
installations during construction.
➢ Preserve and avoiding damage to trees, shrubs, and all other vegetation in the area beyond
the designated excavation area.
Fill and Backfill
Backfilling is the process of refilling an excavated area with materials to support and stabilize a
foundation or structure. It's an essential step in construction that takes place after the foundation
has been poured and utility lines installed.
Importance of Backfilling
Provides support: Backfilling strengthens the foundation walls and prevents the foundation from
shifting or settling.
Improves drainage: Backfilling can help improve drainage and soil compaction.
Insulates: Backfill can be used to insulate foundations.

Fill and Backfill Materials


The selection of the backfill material great importance and depends on various factors including:
• Soil type and properties: If the existing soil has poor drainage capabilities, selecting a
backfill material with good drainage properties, such as gravel or crushed stone, becomes
crucial to prevent water accumulation around the foundation.
• The load-bearing capacity of the backfill material is important. It should be able to provide
adequate support to the foundation and distribute the load evenly. Factors such as the type
of structure, soil conditions, and expected loads must be taken into account during material
selection.
. Fill Material shall consist of gravel, crushed stone, sand and/or marl and soil. Fill material must
be free of frozen lumps, organic matter, trash, chunks of highly plastic clay
Compaction Water
Water used for compaction of fill material shall be reasonably free of salts, oil, acid, alkalis,
organic matter, or other deleterious substances.
Preparation of Areas to Receive Fill, Pavement or Loads
Areas to receive fill, foundations, or pavement shall be free of organic material, trash, or other
unsuitable material with proper drainage maintained at all time so that the site is free of standing
water. Any soil that becomes saturated shall be removed completely and replaced.
Fill Placement and Compaction
Backfilling and compaction in construction eliminate air voids, increase soil strength, and reduce
the risk of settlement. The compaction process can be performed using various equipment, such as
vibratory rollers or plate compactors, which exert pressure on the backfill material to ensure
uniformity and stability. Proper compaction of the backfill material is essential to achieve the
desired level of soil density. The compaction effort required depends on factors such as the type
of backfill material, moisture content, and the desired level of compaction.
Period of Backfilling
The timing of the backfilling process in construction also plays a crucial role in the strength of the
building foundation. It should not occur immediately after the foundation is built. Instead, ample
time should be given for the foundation to gain enough strength to bear the load of the backfill
material. Moreover, it is suitable during dry periods.
Cleaning and Disposal
All excavated materials that are unsatisfactory for use as fill or backfill or that are surplus to that
needed for backfilling shall immediately be disposed to a suitable location.

Borrow Pit
Definition of Borrow Pit
A borrow pit is an excavated area where fill materials like soil, gravel, or sand are removed for use
in construction projects. Borrow pits are a common feature in construction. Borrow pits are used
for a variety of purposes in construction, including:
Creating foundations: Borrow pits provide materials to create stable foundations for buildings.
Leveling sites: Borrow pits can be used to level off building sites.
Landscaping: Borrow pits can provide materials for landscaping.
Raising platforms: Borrow pits can be used to raise platforms.
Land reclamation: Borrow pits can be used to fill low-lying areas, level land, or create new
landforms.
Importance of Borrow Pit
1) Reduces transportation costs:
Borrow pits are located close to where the materials are needed, reducing the need to transport
materials to the construction site.
2) Reduces environmental impact:
Borrow pits reduce construction traffic on public roads, which can reduce fuel use and carbon
emissions.
3) Provides a secure supply: Borrow pits provide a secure supply of construction materials
from local sources.
4) Saves costs: Borrow pits can save costs by sourcing materials on site.

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