MobilGrain Delisle Seed Cleaning Plant
KGS Group provided detailed structural design for the foundation and superstructure of a new seed cleaning facility for MobilGrain. The 140-foot-tall terminal features a unique design that maximizes the use of gravity and minimizes the need for maintenance-intense conveyance equipment to handle grain. The facility also includes a railcar loadout station with underground storage bins, a large storage bin covering the entire main floor, vibrating screens and an explosion-proof bucket elevator.
The proposed site was located within a geological zone that is challenging for foundation design and excavation works. In addition to a high-water table, neither piles or footings were found to be a clear choice of foundation. Through careful interpretation of geotechnical parameters and design simulations, the team determined concrete‑filled, steel‑driven piles as the appropriate foundation solution. A thick main‑floor concrete slab was designed to support the heavy bin loading and ensure the pile array acts uniformly as a group. Sheet piling was also installed between the main plant and loadout basement in order to speed up foundation construction. Draw wells were installed along the perimeter of the site in order to lower the water table during construction.
As a result of intense coordination efforts between the owner, engineering team and sub-contractors, the 3-year long project was successfully completed.
Project Highlights
- Detailed structural design for the foundation and superstructure of a new seed cleaning facility
- The 140-foot-tall terminal features a unique design that maximizes the use of gravity and minimizes the need for maintenance-intense conveyance equipment to handle grain
- Careful interpretation of geotechnical parameters and design simulations resulted in the chosen solution of concrete‑filled, steel‑driven piles
