Restoring SR 531 in Ashtabula
Bordering Lake Erie, State Route 531 (SR 531) in Ashtabula, OH, is not just a scenic route with breathtaking views of the Great Lake. It’s a vital transportation link for both the local community and the thriving tourism industry, contributing $295 million annually. But the relationship between this roadway and Lake Erie turned dangerous in recent years as the lake’s encroachment on the hillside slowly compromised the road’s foundation.
By December 2022, the situation became critical. Erosion threatened the structural integrity of SR 531, prompting an emergency closure by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). The roadway had become unsafe for locals and travelers alike, and immediate action was required.
A.P. O'Horo Company was entrusted with the task of stabilizing the road. To address the erosion, O'Horo turned to International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) for the right solution—specifically, an ICE® 33 Vibratory Driver. This equipment was tasked with driving approximately 150 feet of PZC26 x 45’ cantilevered sheet pile into the soil to create a retaining wall. This wall would not only restore the proper alignment of the road but also protect it from further erosion. The sheet piling provided a short-term fix, allowing SR 531 to reopen and resume traffic shortly after the New Year in 2023.
At The Hose Company, we understand the critical role that reliable equipment plays in projects like this. Our Hydrauli-Flex hoses were part of the equipment that ensured ICE® 33 Vibratory Drivers functioned smoothly throughout the project. Hydrauli-Flex hoses are specifically designed for high-pressure applications and extreme environments—exactly the conditions present on a job like this.
For ICE® Vibratory Hammers and Drills, the role of hydraulic hoses cannot be overstated. These hoses are essential for maintaining consistent hydraulic pressure, which is crucial for the equipment's functionality. Without the proper hydraulic flow, the vibratory drivers would not be able to generate the power needed to drive the sheet piles into the ground. Our Hydrauli-Flex hoses are designed to meet these high demands, ensuring that ICE® machinery delivers optimal results on every job.
These hoses are built with durability in mind, able to withstand the constant pressure and stress associated with equipment like ICE®’s vibratory drivers. They provide a secure, leak-free connection between vital components, ensuring that machinery operates efficiently and safely under challenging conditions. Without dependable hoses, projects like the restoration of SR 531 could experience downtime or, worse, failure.
We are proud that Hydrauli-Flex hoses played a small yet critical role in restoring safety and stability to SR 531. As this road continues to serve Ashtabula’s residents and tourists, our hoses remain a trusted solution for maintaining equipment performance and safety on the job.
If you’re working on a project that requires high-performance hoses for your heavy equipment, reach out to us at The Hose Company. With our expertise in industrial hose solutions, we can ensure that your equipment, no matter how specialized, operates at its best.
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For more information about Hydrauli-Flex hoses or to inquire about our products for your next project, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to provide the solutions you need to keep your equipment running efficiently and safely.