Diaphragm Wall Construction Methods and Steps – Model&Co
In modern foundation engineering, diaphragm wall construction is one of the most reliable methods for creating deep retaining walls and underground structures. Known for its strength, stability, and watertight performance, diaphragm walls are widely used in metro stations, tunnels, basements, and dams.
At Model&Co, we provide advanced diaphragm wall equipment and technology to ensure safe, efficient, and precise wall construction. Below, we outline the diaphragm wall construction methods and steps that form the basis of this essential geotechnical technique.
✅ Methods of Diaphragm Wall Construction
There are two primary methods used for diaphragm wall excavation and panel formation:
Hydraulic Grab Method
Uses heavy-duty diaphragm wall grabs to excavate soil panel by panel.
Best suited for medium-depth diaphragm walls and soft to medium soils.
Hydromill Trench Cutter Method
Employs hydromill trench cutters for deep and precise excavation.
Ideal for hard soils and rock layers, ensuring vertical accuracy and stability.
Both methods are supported by bentonite or polymer slurry circulation, which stabilizes the trench during excavation.
✅ Step-by-Step Process of Diaphragm Wall Construction
Site Preparation & Guide Wall Construction
A shallow reinforced concrete guide wall is built to align the trench and support slurry circulation.
Excavation of Panels
Using a grab machine or hydromill, excavation is carried out panel by panel under slurry protection.
Slurry Circulation & Cleaning
Bentonite or polymer slurry maintains trench stability and prevents collapse.
Slurry is continuously cleaned and recycled.
Placement of Stopend Pipes & Reinforcement
Stopend pipes ensure proper joint formation between panels.
Reinforcement cages are lowered into the trench.
Concreting the Panels
Concrete is placed using tremie pipes from bottom to top, displacing the slurry.
This ensures uniformity, strength, and watertight joints.
Stopend Pipe Extraction
Once the concrete sets, stopend pipe extractors are used to remove the pipes, completing the joint connection.
Final Wall Completion
After sequential excavation and concreting, the diaphragm wall is completed, ready to support deep excavations.
✅ Applications of Diaphragm Wall Construction
Underground metro stations and tunnels
High-rise building basements
Dams, reservoirs, and cut-off walls
Retaining walls in urban excavation projects
Seepage control in groundwater-sensitive areas
✅ Model&Co – Your Partner for Diaphragm Wall Equipment
Model&Co offers a complete range of modern diaphragm wall equipment, including:
Hydromill Trench Cutters
Diaphragm Wall Grabs
Diaphragm Wall Drilling Rigs
👉 Browse our full catalog here: Diaphragm Wall Equipment
📞 Contact Model&Co
Looking to implement the best diaphragm wall construction methods and steps in your project? Model&Co supplies premium European equipment with full technical support worldwide.
🌐 Visit: https://modelcogroup.com/
📞 Call: +39 02 9036 6789