Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Artist impression of Lamar Towers
February 2008 saw the first bi-directional load test performed in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Utilizing O-cell technology, two tests were undertaken at the site of the new Lamar Towers project in Jeddah, situated by the shores of the Red Sea.
Jeddah is situated on the West coast of the Arabian Peninsula and is nicknamed “The Bride of the Red Sea”. Jeddah also hosts the longest Corniche in Saudi Arabia.

Splicing the bottom cage
Lamar Towers will be the first of numerous high rise developments in Jeddah. Positioned on the Red Sea coastline along the Corniche, this $2.5 Billion SAR, 7 star luxury project will offer residential, commercial and retail space plus spa all as part of one project.

The O-cell assemblies, using two O-cells in each, were positioned within the 50 metre long piles (bored to 58 metres) at a depth of approximately 33 metres and within the coral strata. To provide more detailed information regarding skin friction distribution characteristics, twelve levels of vibrating wire strain gauges (Geokon 4911-4 model) were placed within the pile section, 7 levels below the O-cell assembly and 5 levels above.

Both test piles were base grouted to a depth of 6 metres below the toe before testing commenced.

The two prelimiary test piles, each mobilised 30MN, allowed the geotechnical design characteristics to be determined within the coral strata, previously unknown mobilised unit shaft friction values to be measured and successfully proved the piles could attain the factor of safety required.

In addition to the preliminary test piles, several working piles have also been completed sucessfully in each of the tower foundations.

Project Profiles:

Upcoming Conferences:

News:

Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia