Baltimore, Maryland – Cleanup officials are gearing up for a challenging operation to remove a large steel truss lodged on the bow of the Dali container ship in the Patapsco River. A video animation released by the Key Bridge response team showcases the plan involving the use of small explosive devices to dislodge the truss in a controlled demolition.
The crews intend to strategically place explosives in holes cut into various sections of the truss, setting off charges simultaneously to create precise cuts mere millimeters in width. Once detonated, the truss section will be split apart, allowing the pieces to fall into the river and release the Dali. The operation, referred to as precision cutting, aims to efficiently and safely remove the steel structure under high tension.
Officials are emphasizing safety, recommending that individuals within 2,000 yards of the blast site use hearing protection, with most of the area encompassing the Patapsco River. Chief Petty Officer Nicholas Carr, the safety officer of the Key Bridge Response Unified Command, assures that workers in the vicinity will receive advanced notice of the plan to ensure their safety.
Scheduled to take place in the coming days, the demolition will be managed by Controlled Demolition Inc., a Baltimore County-based company known for its expertise in explosive demolition. James Milburn, president of the National Demolition Association, underscores the specialized nature of employing explosives in such operations, highlighting the expertise and licensing necessary for successful execution.
The decision to use explosives instead of traditional cutting methods was likely influenced by considerations such as worker safety, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. Milburn explains that achieving the desired effect of freeing the Dali while ensuring worker and environmental safety are paramount in the decision-making process. Contractors aim to minimize the use of explosives while still achieving the intended outcome.
The careful planning and execution of the controlled demolition involve detailed specifications for the location, size, and protection measures surrounding the charges. Wrappings placed on each charge help contain the explosion, directing the force to the targeted metal structure. With the goal of guiding the explosive energy to sever the steel truss effectively, the operation is expected to resemble localized fireworks, maintaining a controlled and focused approach towards dismantling the obstruction.