The Hose Company’s Role in Enhancing Port Bienville’s Maritime Infrastructure
At The Hose Company, we pride ourselves on being a key partner in major construction projects across the country. Our Hydrauli-Flex hoses, renowned for their durability and efficiency, are instrumental in powering hydraulic equipment used in a range of industries. One of the most exciting projects we’re currently supporting is the construction of the Port Bienville Barge Fleeting Area (Project No. PB2304) in Port Bienville, MS. This vital project is set to boost the region's maritime commerce and bolster Mississippi’s economy, and we’re proud to play a role in its success.
Supporting Mississippi’s Maritime Infrastructure
Thanks to a generous $502,855 grant from the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the Port Bienville Barge Fleeting Area is receiving a much-needed upgrade. Barge fleeting areas like this one are crucial for the efficiency of river-based commerce. These areas offer secure temporary storage for both loaded and empty barges, helping to optimize barge traffic, improve safety, and facilitate faster turnarounds for barges that transport goods.
In early 2024, the contractor selected for this project, Deep South Construction & Salvage, began work to update the barge fleeting area. As a leader in marine construction, Deep South specializes in high-quality marine construction services, and we are thrilled to provide the necessary support with our Hydrauli-Flex hoses to ensure the success of this undertaking.
The Role of ICE Equipment and Hydrauli-Flex Hoses
The scope of the project is extensive, with the installation of four new mooring dolphins and the removal of two older, existing ones. The new mooring dolphins will play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term durability and functionality of the barge fleeting area. To drive the 24-inch by ½-inch steel pipe piles up to 100 feet deep, Deep South rented an ICE® 44 Vibratory Driver Extractor from International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®). This specialized equipment is essential for creating the new foundation for the mooring dolphins, and it requires hydraulic power to operate effectively.
That’s where The Hose Company comes in. Our Hydrauli-Flex hoses are designed for high-performance applications such as these. Hydrauli-Flex hoses are tough, flexible, and designed to withstand the extreme pressures required to power vibratory drivers and other heavy-duty equipment. By supplying our high-quality hoses to the ICE® equipment, we are helping ensure that Deep South’s team can execute this critical work with precision and efficiency.
The Technical Details: Ensuring a Lasting Foundation
The process of installing the mooring dolphins involves driving several steel piles into the soft soil to form the foundation for the mooring structures. This includes one plumb pile and two battered piles with a 3:1 batter angle. The existing timber piles are being replaced with longer steel piles to ensure that the new structures will stand the test of time, even in the challenging soil conditions.
By replacing the old timber piles with steel, the project aims to improve the port’s infrastructure and increase its capacity. The Hydrauli-Flex hoses that we supply are critical to the operation of the vibratory driver equipment that powers these installations. With every successful pile installation, The Hose Company’s hoses are at work, supporting the equipment needed to create a robust foundation for the port’s future.
Positive Impacts on the Port and the Region
Once completed, the upgraded Port Bienville Barge Fleeting Area will have a major positive impact on the region. With the installation of the new mooring dolphins, the port will be able to accommodate more barges, optimizing barge traffic and improving the overall efficiency of the port’s operations. The enhanced infrastructure will also increase the safety and reliability of mooring operations, which are critical to the success of maritime commerce.
In addition to these operational improvements, the project is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region. By improving the infrastructure at the Port Bienville Industrial Park, the project will make the port more attractive to businesses involved in river-based transportation and logistics. As a result, we can expect to see an uptick in business activity and job creation in the region, which will benefit the local economy.
Conclusion: A Proud Partnership
At The Hose Company, we are proud to support the construction of the Port Bienville Barge Fleeting Area. Our Hydrauli-Flex hoses are playing a crucial role in powering the equipment that is making this important project a success. As the construction progresses, we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the port and the surrounding community.
This project is a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders, and we are thrilled to be part of it. By providing durable, high-performance hoses for ICE® equipment, we’re helping to lay the groundwork for a safer, more efficient future for maritime commerce in the region.
As the project continues, we remain committed to supporting Deep South Construction & Salvage, International Construction Equipment, Inc., and the Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission in their efforts to enhance Mississippi’s maritime infrastructure. It’s an exciting time for the region, and we’re proud to contribute to its growth.
Contact Us
At The Hose Company, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality products and support for your construction and industrial needs. Whether you’re involved in maritime infrastructure projects or any other heavy-duty applications, our Hydrauli-Flex hoses are designed to deliver superior performance and reliability.
If you’d like to learn more about how our products can support your project or to get in touch with our team, don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve success in your next endeavor.
