Powering the Equipment at the Smithville Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project
At The Hose Company, we take pride in the role our products play in significant infrastructure projects, and the recent Smithville Lake Dam rehabilitation on Maryland's Eastern Shore is a prime example of how our Hydrauli-Flex hoses are integral to the success of heavy-duty equipment.
The Project: A Vital Infrastructure Upgrade
In February 2024, Agate was tasked with a major role in the rehabilitation of Smithville Lake Dam, a historically significant structure that supports both local ecosystem and recreational uses. Originally built to power a grist mill, the dam continues to serve the community by forming Smithville Lake, a popular recreational area. The project’s main objective was to restore the reservoir and maintain the dam to support a viable fishery and provide recreational opportunities for local residents.
The project included major updates like embankment rehabilitation, concrete spillway removal, and the installation of a new rock-lined spillway. It was a challenging project, requiring precision and expertise, as Agate also needed to install a drawdown pipe and an access road. To complete these tasks, Agate utilized ICE® equipment, powered by Hydrauli-Flex hoses from The Hose Company.
Hydrauli-Flex Hoses at Work
Agate used two key pieces of ICE® equipment during the rehabilitation project: the ICE® 14D Vibratory Driver/Extractor and the ICE® EX-25 Rotary Drill. These machines are essential for driving h-beams, sheeting, and installing helical piles, which are critical to ensuring the dam's stability.
The ICE® 14D Vibratory Driver/Extractor was used to drive sheet piles into the ground and create a temporary cofferdam that diverted water away from the work area. The precision and speed required for this task were made possible by the reliable power supplied through our Hydrauli-Flex hoses. Hydrauli-Flex hoses are engineered to withstand high-pressure applications and the toughest environments, making them the perfect solution for the ICE® 14D's demanding tasks. The smooth, continuous operation of the equipment ensured that Agate could work efficiently, even in challenging soil conditions, and complete the cofferdam installation.
The ICE® EX-25 Rotary Drill was used for installing helical piles that provided deep foundation support for the dam. Hydrauli-Flex hoses helped power the rotary drill's ability to install the piles with minimal disruption to the environment, a key consideration in projects like this. These piles are designed to transfer structural loads to more stable soil layers, ensuring the long-term integrity and safety of the dam. The smooth operation of the rotary drill, powered by our hoses, was essential for this delicate installation process.
Overcoming Challenges
As with any large-scale infrastructure project, Agate faced unforeseen conditions, including adverse weather and complex technical tasks. However, the combination of Agate’s expertise and reliable equipment from ICE® helped the team navigate these challenges. Our Hydrauli-Flex hoses played a crucial role by ensuring that the ICE® machinery operated without interruptions, even under difficult circumstances.
The rehabilitation of Smithville Lake Dam also included the installation of a new canal gate, which enhanced water flow management and bolstered the dam's safety. This upgrade was another critical aspect of the project that required precise execution, and the ICE® equipment, powered by Hydrauli-Flex hoses, proved vital in getting the job done on time and within budget.
Looking Ahead
The successful completion of the Smithville Lake Dam rehabilitation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Agate Construction and the performance of the ICE® equipment powered by Hydrauli-Flex hoses. At The Hose Company, we are proud to be part of this project and to provide the products that help keep critical infrastructure safe and functional.
We look forward to continuing our partnership with ICE® and contractors like Agate to support infrastructure projects nationwide. Whether it’s a dam rehabilitation or a complex construction task, Hydrauli-Flex hoses are there to ensure that equipment operates at its best, no matter the challenge.
For more information on Hydrauli-Flex hoses and how they can power your next project, contact The Hose Company today!
