Empowering Innovation with Hydrauli-Flex Hoses in Harker's Island's Bridge Project
As manufacturers of Hydrauli-Flex hoses used to power ICE® equipment, we’re proud to be a part of the exciting developments taking place in Harker's Island, North Carolina. The island, known for its rich history and as a popular tourist destination for the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, is making waves in construction technology with the integration of carbon fiber-enforced concrete in the replacement of the Earl C. Davis Memorial Bridge (Bridge No. 73) and Bridge No. 96. These bridges, which have served as vital links between the mainland and Harker's Island for more than five decades, are getting an innovative upgrade that is the first of its kind in North Carolina.
The groundbreaking new technology being used in this project includes carbon fiber-reinforced concrete, a revolutionary composite material that combines carbon fiber fabrics or bars with fine-grained concrete. The result? A bridge foundation that’s not only capable of bearing higher loads but also allows for the creation of complex shapes—an essential feature for the complex engineering challenges the new Harker's Island bridge will face. This will make the Harker's Island bridge the first in North Carolina to incorporate carbon fibers into its concrete foundation, showcasing a leap forward in engineering design and construction.
To achieve this, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) partnered with Balfour Beatty, one of the industry's leading construction companies, to oversee the replacement of these historic bridges. As part of the project, Balfour Beatty is using ICE® equipment, which plays a pivotal role in ensuring that this bridge project not only meets but exceeds all necessary safety and structural requirements.
For this ambitious endeavor, Balfour Beatty needed to install 36-inch concrete pilings—a task that requires powerful and precise equipment. Enter ICE® and their trusted hammers. Balfour Beatty selected the ICE® I-62 Diesel Impact Hammer, an essential piece of equipment that ensures the pile-driving process goes smoothly and efficiently. The I-62 was carefully set to the first setting with a 12-inch cushion to avoid overstressing the 110-foot concrete piles, ensuring that the piles were driven with the perfect amount of force while preserving their structural integrity. With their expert team and the right tools in hand, Balfour Beatty’s team demonstrated their technical mastery in driving piles through the challenging North Carolina terrain.
As a supplier of Hydrauli-Flex hoses, we’re especially grateful to be part of this project. The Hydrauli-Flex hoses, designed to power the ICE® equipment, are built for high-pressure, high-performance tasks, delivering the efficiency and reliability needed for such an important construction job. We know that Balfour Beatty’s decision to trust ICE® equipment for this groundbreaking project speaks volumes about the reliability and innovation that ICE® brings to the table—and we’re thrilled to support that.
What’s even more exciting is that once the new bridges are constructed, one-half of the original Earl C. Davis Memorial Bridge will remain in place as a cherished landmark. It will continue to be enjoyed by locals, anglers, and tourists alike, offering breathtaking views of the North River—a beautiful testament to the blend of preserving history while embracing cutting-edge technology.
We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Balfour Beatty for leading the charge in this historic project. This venture not only marks a significant milestone in North Carolina’s construction landscape but also reflects the broader commitment to innovation that will ensure the resilience and longevity of the state’s infrastructure.
As The Hose Company, we’re honored to be part of this journey, working alongside Balfour Beatty, ICE® equipment, and all those involved in bringing this historic project to life. With the combination of carbon fiber-enforced concrete and ICE® equipment, Harker's Island’s new bridge is poised to be a lasting symbol of technological advancement, ensuring a secure and sustainable connection between the mainland and this stunning coastal paradise.
The Efficiency of ICE® Equipment & Hydrauli-Flex Hoses
The efficiency of ICE® Vibratory Hammers and Drills heavily relies on the quality of their hydraulic hoses. The Hose Company supplies robust and flexible hoses that withstand high pressures and harsh environments. This collaboration guarantees that ICE® equipment maintains peak performance, contributing to successful and timely project completions. By ensuring that their hydraulic systems are supported by high-quality hoses, we help ICE® equipment deliver optimal power and reliability on the job.
Here’s to more innovations and firsts—together, we’re building the future!
Contact Us
At The Hose Company, we specialize in manufacturing high-performance Hydrauli-Flex hoses designed to power and enhance the efficiency of construction equipment. Our hoses are engineered to withstand high-pressure conditions, providing the durability needed for even the most demanding projects. For more information about our products and how we can help power your projects, contact us today!
