Metal gabion baskets are commonly used for consolidation works in various scenarios where man-made and natural structures coexist, and where specific requirements in terms of safety and structural support exist.
In this article we want to explore the function, characteristics and installation modes of metal gabion cages, so that those who are in need of this product can obtain useful information that will help them make an informed choice.
EXAMPLES OF USE
Below, we will list the two most important situations that require the use of metal gabion baskets:
- To reinforce embankments and walls using a mattress arrangement.
- For protection and support walls, using a vertical arrangement, to protect structural elements that are subject to constant stress caused by atmospheric agents and water erosion.
THE MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF METAL GABION BASKETS
Metal gabion baskets are cube-shaped and modular structures, and are typically created as electrowelded mesh or double torsion mesh covered in zinc, zinc/aluminium or zinc and PVC. The mesh can have a square or rectangular shape, while the metal threads have a diameter that usually ranges from 4mm to 5mm. As we will see in greater detail, during the installation phase, gabion baskets are filled with suitable stone.
The main characteristics of gabion baskets are:
- Their flexibility and drainage capacity, which minimises the risk of landslides in ground that contains a high proportion of silt and clay, and is rich in water, permitting the discharge of the water and the simultaneous containment of the ground.
- Solidarity and resistance
The electrowelded mesh makes gabion baskets perfect for giving structure to elevated and self-supporting structures. Furthermore, they are not subject to deformation, thus reducing problems caused by discrepancies between the ground and natural walls. - High capacity for the absorption of mechanical stress.
FILLING MATERIALS: THE BEST WAY TO SELECT AND USE THEM
The stones used to fill gabion baskets must be between 15cm and 25cm in size. The best solution is to select river stones or material originating in suitably chosen quarries. Stones with an extremely regular shape are not suitable. One option is to fill gabion baskets using locally available materials – as long as these are suitable in terms of their granulometric characteristics and specific weight.
When positioning the stones, working to achieve a structure with a suitable weight and porosity, and mutual interlocking of the individual stones, is essential, as if you were constructing a drystone wall. We would also like to emphasise that the choice of stones to be used should vary depending on the particular situation in question: for example, river stones are suitable for drainage purposes, as they are excellently suited to allowing the discharge of water in the simplest way possible.
In its catalogue, Cavatorta offers containment gabion baskets in electrowelded mesh or double torsion mesh, which have all the characteristics necessary for adapting to various situations and grounds with unique morphological and hydrogeological features. To learn more about the characteristics of this product, we invite you to take a look at our dedicated technical sheet and to get in touch with us for personal advice.