The construction of the new Île d’Orléans Bridge in Québec, Canada, is one of the province’s most significant infrastructure projects. Designed to replace the existing 1935 bridge, the new crossing will secure the only road link between Île d’Orléans and the mainland. For the island’s residents, businesses, farmers, and tourism operators, the bridge is not merely a transportation structure — it is a lifeline.
The new 2.1-kilometre (1.3 miles) bridge will feature wide traffic lanes with shoulders, as well as separated lanes for pedestrians. The project includes a 900-metre-long (3,000 ft) cable-stayed structure with a 430-metre (1,400 ft) main span, along with extensive road connections on both shores. The foundation works require dozens of large-diameter piles, some extending more than 80 metres (260 ft) into the overburden.
To carry out the deep foundation work safely and protect operations from river conditions and the elements, cofferdams and supporting structures such as barges, have to be constructed first. Mincon delivered the complete tooling package for the successful drilling of these supporting structures:
- Mincon’s Integrated 914 mm (36″) M-Wall casing system with Spiral Flush air control technology for 170 piles
- Mincon’s 24” MP240 hammer with shroud
- Mincon’s SA24 shock absorber
- Air manifold with water pump and oiler
- Mincon drilling oil
The M-Wall piles were drilled 8 metres (26 ft) into bedrock, making vertical accuracy critical, as misalignment could compromise structural performance and sealing integrity. The integrated M-Wall casing system enabled controlled and robust advancement, resulting in precise and cost-effective installation.
Another key consideration when working in a river environment was air management, as excessive air escape can disturb sediments and affect water quality. Mincon’s Spiral Flush air control technology is specifically designed to minimize air escape by directing airflow back inside the casing while maintaining efficient cuttings removal.
With the advantages of Mincon tooling and technical support, the constructor Centurion Fondation completed the pile drilling in just 51 days, forming a precise rectangular cofferdam in the river. This achievement demonstrates how the right tooling, combined with an excellent on-site team and strong technical backing, delivers performance on critical infrastructure projects.
Learn more about M-Wall casing systems, shock absorbers, and Spiral Flush air control technology:
