TERRAFIX BLOCKS (Temporarily discontinued)
Please contact us for specified requirements.
Terrafix is an interlocking environmentally acceptable element made of high strength concrete. It was specifically designed to provide a flexible lining where cost-effective protection against wind and water erosion is required. Terrafix blocks are available in three different thicknesses and can be laid in a variety of configurations to suit most site conditions.
Type 100, 120, 150 | SPECIFICATIONS |
---|---|
Blocks per square meter | 4-10 |
Weight (kg) | 13, 16 AND 21 |
Block infill volume/cubic meter | 0.004, 0.005 AND 0.006 |
Avg. constructed mass kg per square meter of wall | 190, 235 AND 300 |
Block wall thickness | 40 |
100, 120 AND 150
1. Embankments and slope stabilisation:
Road and railway bridge abutments can be protected against wind and water erosion with good effect, and erosion problems or aesthetic considerations of embankments and cuttings can be effectively countered with the TERRAFIX system. Protection is offered to a varying degree by allowing the choice of appropriate laying patterns and thicknesses.
2. Riverbank and shoreline protection:
Sites subject to wave erosion may be protected with TERRAFIX. The lining can be strengthened with ground anchors or made impervious by employing partial or total concrete or mastic grouting. Hydrostatic pressure relief openings must be provided where necesarry.
Riverbank and shoreline protection | Slope protection and rehabilitation |
The system lends itself to providing an effective lining for river banks, canals, reservoirs and lakes. Under such circumstances it is essential to carefully design a suitable filter underneath each structure in order to prevent leaching of fine soil particles. Woven or non-woven geotextiles are considered to be most suitable.
Erosion at the toe of the bank is prevented by continuing the lining to below the anticipated depth of scour. Below the waterline, cells should be filled with coarse material and, above normal waterline, with topsoil. Graded rock or woven/non-woven geotextile filters are to be provided where necessary, to prevent leaching of fine soil particles.
3. Stormwater control and spillways: The elements are used for lining dam spillways and sloping weirs, storm water attenuation ponds or downstream aprons. They are also ideal for lining water courses of varying sizes from small ditches to large canals. In designing such structures a roughness coefficient of 0.04 (CERC 1984) has to be assumed.
Dams and Spillways | Storm water control |
Design Considerations
A feasibility study into the hydraulic applications of the TERRAFIX system by the division of Earth, Marine and Atmospheric Science and Technology of the CSIR has revealed very positive characteristics. A copy of this report is available on request. Information contained in this brochure is furnished as a guideline only. The responsibility for correct utilisation, design and construction shall rest with the controlling engineer or contractor. For best results and technical advice, contact our recommended contractors. For hydraulic applications, the CSIR can also be approached.
Listed below are contributing to the growing popularity of Terraforce among architects, engineers, developers, contractors and home owners. Terraforce blocks are manufactured under controlled conditions in factories on five continents and may be employed to solve from light erosion control applications to heavy composite earth retaining requirements. Our consultants will gladly share their experience of many years with you to maximise the environmental and aesthetic opportunities that exist on your site.
Hollow core reversible units.
Chose between round face,
(plant supportive) or flush face (smooth or split version) to suit your requirements. Units are light weight for easy delivery, handling and installation, yet heavy in mass when filled with soil, gravel, or concrete. Set fence and handrail posts within blocks.
Unique Horizontal Interlock
With optional vertical interlock allowing for seamless variations of wall inclination (90-35 degrees). Eliminate the use of geogrids in many cases. Convex and concave corners and curves of unrestricted radius allow complex designs to suit site conditions.
DESIGN CHARTS for the smaller units are provided to suit most sites where relatively light retaining walls are required. Where medium to heavy retaining walls are necessary, other Terraforce products are available to provide lasting solutions. Extended applications must be individually designed by a qualified engineer. These will include composite structures with geogrid or cement stabilised backfill, or when double / single row designs are to be combined with reinforced concrete infill. The comprehensive guide to the design of Terraforce L13 retaining walls and the Terraforce design and installation manual for geosynthetic reinforced soil applications will provide the necessary information. (Design Options).
CONSTRUCTION must be carried out in accordance with practical installation guidelines and details as contained in our construction manuals. The units are light and easy to handle before filling. No special construction skills are required.(Installation Guides).
COST EFFECTIVE Terraforce walls may now be turned into a growing investment by your creative choice of plants.
Benefits
Aesthetics
- Obtainable in different sizes and colours.
- Reversible units for variations on elevation.
- Variable setback allows featuresque appearance.
- Design flexibility – corners, curves and stairs.
- Plant supportive rounded or rock – face elevation
Transport
- Low transport cost – light weight hollow units.
- Easy handling for remote site applications.
Installation
- Installed using standard industry procedures.
- No intricate installation manuals required.
- Special units and connectors not required.
- One – block system. Low labour & material cost.