4 Underwater Construction Methods That Changed the World We Live In

Structures and roadways under water require a highly specialized type of construction. Deep-sea construction may have a long history, but with the highly innovative techniques of today, some of the most cutting-edge structures are possible.

1. Pneumatic Caissons

These pieces of equipment are submerged onto the floor of the water and work to pump pressurized air from the surface. These structures allow workers to construct at incredible depths under great levels of pressure. This underwater construction technique is used for work on ship repairs, dams, and bridge piers.

2. Immersed-Tube Tunnels

The parts of these tunnels are sunk into their appropriate locations separately, and then put together underneath the water. The pieces are prefabricated and sealed to allow them to float to their proper spot and then be connected. Since they can be assembled together extremely quickly, this underwater construction method has become among the most cost-effective means of creating underwater train rails and highways. Special care is taken with the joints of these tunnels, which require additional waterproofing.

3. Suction Dredgers

These vessels can move material from water utilizing a tube and suction technique. A number of dredging techniques exist, but the most ideal ones are cutter-section dredgers that use cutting equipment at the suction inlet. Other forms of dredges utilize grabbing techniques, while others use dragging methods to move the earth. There are so many uses for this technique, making it among the more innovative.

4. Offshore Oil Drilling

Perhaps the most influential underwater construction method is offshore oil drilling. Drilling can occur at depths as much as 8,000 feet. There are currently 10 types of platform and rig systems in place, which include some that are totally submersible and others that float. Once these systems are in place they can conduct state-of-the-art projects such as 3-D seismic imaging, horizontal drilling, and enhanced oil recovery processes.

Underwater construction is truly an innovative science that can only be conducted by those with extensive training and experience in the industry. At American Underwater Services, we’re fully licensed and certified to perform a variety of commercial underwater and diving services for bodies of water large and small.

What to Keep in Mind Before Starting an Underwater Construction Project

Underwater construction takes on a much different spin than typical above-ground construction projects. There are plenty of things to consider before commencing an underwater construction project, including the service you use to tackle your specific job. The condition of water-based structures and the methods of constructing and inspecting them should never be taken for granted. Proper construction methods and equipment are critical to ensuring the structures are safe and dependable. 

Be certain that the team you are working with has the experience and expertise to provide you with all the information you need to ensure a safe and effective construction project.

You Need Experienced Divers in the Underwater Construction Industry

Not all divers are created equal. In fact, there are many different tasks divers can do. For this reason, each set of divers is trained specifically to tackle a certain job. What you need are divers that are familiar with underwater construction projects and the structures that typically need to be dealt with. Ideally, any divers hired will need to have some level of experience working with underwater structures such as pipelines, discharge systems, hydroelectric systems, traveling water screens, and much more.

Consider Multiple Solutions Before Choosing the Right One

Much like any other problem or issue, there’s often more than one solution for it. Our company has divers who have lots of underwater construction experience that can help you identify all the necessary information for the solution. After the inspection has been completed, we’ll create a report with suggestions outlining how to approach the job at hand. Ideally, we’ll recommend one solution out of all the ones listed.

When it comes to underwater construction, you can reduce the number of unknowns by using an underwater diving company that can actually carry out the project successfully. Many companies may have experienced divers, but not necessarily with underwater construction. Save yourself the hassle and headaches and choose American Underwater Services.

How to Keep Your Backyard Pond in Good Condition Year-Round

With each season of the year comes a different level of maintenance and care for you pond. Having a regular pond maintenance schedule in place can help you stay on top of any changes that might suggest a breakdown of the pond environment. Follow these suggestions to keep your pond healthy and beautiful every month of the year.

Spring and Summer

Aerating your pond during the hot months of the summer is important because oxygen tends to be depleted more in warm water. This can be done by adding an air bubbler or a second or third pond pump.

The filters should ideally be checked on a weekly basis, and the water should be topped up on a regular basis to avoid salt and mineral build-up. The pond water’s ammonia and chlorine levels should be checked weekly, and algae should be removed on an as-needed basis to prevent its growth.

Fall

Falling leaves is part and parcel with the fall months of the year, which means dead leaves can build up in your pond. These leaves can clog up your pond’s filter many times a day. You should be vigilant about removing these leaves to make sure they don’t accumulate. Leaf netting can make this task a lot easier.

Once the temperature of the water drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, start feeding the fish (if present) only once daily, and switch to a wheat germ-based food that’s easier to digest. Remove any fish or plants from the pond that won’t be able to survive the cold months of the winter. Disconnect and drain out the pump and filters, and drain the fountain and water lines if present.

Winter

There’s little pond water maintenance that needs to occur in the winter, as much of the work is done during the warmer months. The main goal in the winter is to prevent the water from freezing entirely. This can be done by installing an aeration pump or floating pond de-icer to keep an air hole open once freezing starts. Toxic gases will be able to escape through this hole. Leave a piece of wood to float on the surface of the water to prevent expanding ice by absorbing pressure.

Keeping your pond healthy throughout the year doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does require vigilance. Rather than doing the work yourself, hire the experts in this field. At American Underwater Services, we offer convenient, affordable and comprehensive pond cleaning services. Contact us today so you can enjoy the beauty of your pond without having to do the work yourself.