Harnessing Power: How Hydrauli-Flex Hoses Support the ICE Equipment in the Rio de la Plata Project
At Hydrauli-Flex, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of hose manufacturing for hydraulic systems used in essential machinery. Our hoses are vital components in equipment like the ICE® 66C Vibratory Driver/Extractor and the ICE® Excavator-Mounted Hammer Model 7E-SG, which are currently pivotal in the flood damage reduction efforts along Puerto Rico's Rio de la Plata River Basin.
The Challenge: Flood Mitigation in a Vulnerable Region
Since 2007, the US Army Corps of Engineers has spearheaded initiatives to mitigate flood risks in the Rio de la Plata River Basin. With steep headwater slopes and torrential downpours during the rainy season, the region faces significant flood threats, impacting coastal towns and local habitats. The ongoing flood damage reduction project represents a $500 million commitment to safeguarding these communities.
The project’s first phase, completed in 2015 with a budget of $23.7 million, laid the groundwork for extensive improvements. The upcoming phase focuses on channel enhancements, levee constructions, and bridge replacements—all essential tasks that demand robust and reliable machinery, underscored by high-quality hydraulic hoses.
The Equipment at Work
Central to the project’s success is the ICE® 66C Vibratory Driver/Extractor, powered by a Model 800H Power Unit. This equipment is designed to efficiently drive sheet piles into the ground, creating essential barriers against floodwaters. JPI Construction, the overseeing contractor, has adeptly maneuvered this powerful machinery under tight conditions, including navigating under bridges with only 24 feet of vertical clearance.
To tackle this challenge, JPI utilized the ICE® Excavator-Mounted Hammer Model 7E-SG. This innovative solution allowed for the precise driving of 40-foot sheet piles in segments beneath low clearance bridges. The combination of these specialized machines, equipped with our durable Hydrauli-Flex hoses, enables seamless hydraulic operations, even in challenging environments.
Why Hydrauli-Flex?
Hydrauli-Flex hoses are designed to withstand the rigorous demands of construction and environmental projects. They ensure reliable power transfer to the equipment, facilitating the heavy lifting and driving tasks necessary for effective flood mitigation. Our hoses are crafted to resist abrasion, withstand high pressures, and maintain flexibility—key factors that contribute to the operational efficiency of machinery like the ICE® vibratory drivers and impact hammers.
In a project of this scale, where safety and performance are paramount, the importance of dependable hydraulic hoses cannot be overstated. The collaboration with JPI Construction, a Certified Small Business and Minority and Hispanic-owned enterprise, highlights a commitment not just to engineering excellence but to community-focused projects that enhance safety and sustainability.
Looking Ahead
Once the project reaches completion, the surrounding coastal towns can expect to see over $12 million in annual economic benefits. This represents a significant return on investment for the community, bolstered by the infrastructure improvements that will provide a 100-year flood protection.
At Hydrauli-Flex, we are proud to contribute to such meaningful endeavors. Our hoses are not just components; they are lifelines that support the machinery making a difference in vulnerable communities. As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings, we remain dedicated to providing the high-quality hydraulic solutions necessary for projects that protect both people and the environment.
Thank you, JPI Construction, for your commitment to safety and community resilience. Together, we’re making a tangible impact on the Rio de la Plata River Basin.