RamArch
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Project: Drumlanrig Railway Tunnel Stabilisation
Owner: Network Rail
Designer: MHB Consultants
Contractor: AMCO
Purpose: Stabilisation of a brick-lined railway tunnel lining.
RamArch Type: Plain steel 16 & 10mm RamArch mesh, manufactured to BS standard.
Backing Mesh: Plain steel 50x50x5mm mesh
RamArch finish: Galvanised
Date: 2014.
Opened in 1850, the 1,280-metre (1,400 yards) long twin-track Drumlanrig Tunnel is located on the Kilmarnock/Dumfries railway, Scotland. This historically significant structure has served as a key transport route for over 170 years, accommodating both passenger and freight services. In 2014, remedial works were carried out over a 20-metre-long section of the tunnel. This is where severe loosening, deformation, as well as spalling of the brick lining were observed, particularly in the tunnel crown, posing a risk of collapse.
The works comprised the installation of RamArch as temporary support to the tunnel lining to stabilise the crown as well as the haunches. The mesh comprised welded Grade B500B 16mm main reinforcing bars at 100mm centres. They also had 10mm distribution bars at 200mm centres.
The fully galvanised RamArch panels were fitted with a 50x50x5mm galvanised steel backing mesh also. The RamArch array was fixed to the existing lining using Hilti resin anchors. This was after being expanded to closely fit the tunnel profile, bearing on steel footing lintels fixed to the lower sidewalls. This intervention has significantly enhanced the structural resilience of the affected section. It is intended to complete the tunnel lining with shotcrete in the near future to provide a 120-year life permanent as well as strong structure. Meanwhile, the fully galvanised system will continue to arrest further delamination of the brick lining. This will ensure continued safe operation of the railway.
Interested in learning more about how RamArch can enhance your project?