ANALYSIS OF THE DURABILITY OF KLAIPEDA SEAPORT QUAYS

Abstract

Klaipėda Seaport is a vital part of Lithuania's economy, and it is essential to monitor and maintain its infrastructure so that it can function without disruption or disaster. This work focuses on the durability of the infrastructure of the Klaipėda Seaport, with a focus on metal sheet piles.   Steel sheet piles are probably the most important material used in quay construction. The main problem of such piles in terms of durability is their corrosion. Whether it is salt water from the sea or fresh water from rivers and lakes, steel corrodes faster or slower when exposed to the environment. 

For this study, measurements were carried out by a team of professional divers who have the experience and the appropriate equipment to carry out this study.  The paper provides information on the design thicknesses of the metal and the existing corrosion effects. The diagnostic methods used during the survey are: chamber, visual and instrumental.  During the whole study, information was collected on eleven quays in the Klaipėda harbour, which were constructed between 1957 and 1987 from three types of steel sheet metal, such as Larsen IV, V, VII.