GA Port Authority
Anchored CFRP strengthened selected crane rail beam surfaces at Georgia Port Authority container berths 7–9.
Delta Structural Technology completed crane rail beam strengthening for Georgia Port Authority container berths 7–9. The package placed CFRP on selected top and bottom beam surfaces and used composite anchors to develop the reinforcement into the concrete members. Marine access, inspection and testing were planned alongside the reinforcing work, creating a coordinated specialty scope for the waterside structure.
- Market
- Ports & Marine
- Services
- Crane rail beam CFRP strengthening
- Location
- Georgia
- Structural members
- Concrete Beam Strengthening
Project challenge
The design varied by location, with multiple reinforcement layers and anchors at selected details. Both upper and underside surfaces required treatment, making access equipment and work platforms part of the construction method. The composite installation also had to be coordinated with special inspection, field testing and the port’s working conditions rather than considered only as a material application.
Project approach
Delta’s proposal called for stamped shop drawings, calculations and product submittals, followed by access setup and layout. The sequence included drilling and cleaning anchor holes, mechanical substrate preparation, priming and application of Simpson CFRP fabric and anchors. After curing, the scope addressed adhesion testing, inspection and any needed remediation, followed by a cementitious finish coating. The system was tailored to the supplied crane-beam details.
Delivery and coordination
The installation plan included marine work platforms, daily reports and witness panels for laboratory testing. Surface preparation was to be reviewed by the owner’s special inspector. The general contractor’s support covered access clearance, traffic and pedestrian management, utilities and occasional forklift use. These interfaces linked the reinforcing operation to the port construction team and the quality requirements of the project.
Project significance
The Georgia Port Authority project demonstrates an anchored CFRP package for existing marine infrastructure. Its technical emphasis is the coordination of top and bottom reinforcement, anchorage and verification in a waterside setting. The case shows how a specialized beam-strengthening system can be organized with the access and inspection provisions needed for installation at a working port.
