The Advantages of Using Graviti® MassBloc® over Gabion Walls or Other Gravity Retaining Structures
Back in 2008, we commenced the manufacturing of the first Graviti® MassBloc®. The idea was to create a Gravity retaining structure that would correct the weaknesses of other retaining wall types—from gabion baskets to standard concrete designs.
We realised that the biggest cause of failure for existing retaining wall structures was the hydraulic pressure that would build up behind the wall. By designing a highly porous concrete block structure, Gravity Wall Systems was able to eliminate that weakness.
By letting 12,500 litres of hydraulic pressure infiltrate every square metre of our walls per hour, we created a gravity retaining structure that was capable of retaining earth more effectively than other existing retaining structures.
Why Choose Graviti® MassBloc® over Gabion Walls?
Since 2008, meanwhile, we have continued to innovate and improve our Graviti® MassBloc® technology, to the point where eliminating the problem of hydraulic pressure is just one of the advantages our retaining systems have over gabion walls or other Gravity retaining structures.
Why should you choose GRAVITI®BLOCK over gabion walls?
Here are just a few key reasons:
- They Can Be Built Quickly: Graviti® MassBloc® units are created by pouring concrete into a steel mould; gabion blocks are created by hand-packing rocks into a wire cage. Graviti® MassBloc® retaining walls can be built with an easy grab-and-stack process, calling for little more than two workers and an excavator; gabion walls must be built by painstakingly tying each wire cage together. Graviti® MassBloc® systems even include a SwiftLift anchor cast into each unit, making it easy to fit individual blocks together and construct them into a structurally sound retaining wall.
It goes without saying that Graviti® MassBloc® walls can be built in a fraction of the time required to construct other types of Gravity retaining structures. - They Are More Durable: As discussed above, the porous nature of Graviti® MassBloc® eliminates the hydraulic pressure that often builds up behind retaining structures. Since the concrete is porous but still strong, it won’t crack and can last longer than other, more pressure-sensitive concrete structures. Compared to gabion walls, meanwhile, there is simply no contest. Because of their metal components, gabion baskets tend to rust, corrode and become structurally unsound over time. While Graviti® MassBloc® units are cast in steel moulds, they contain no metal when they are placed into a wall, which means no rusting or corroding.
Particularly in salt water conditions, the different between these two types of structures is particularly pronounced, as the salt water will quickly take a toll on gabions, but leave Graviti® MassBloc® walls undamaged.
Graviti® MassBloc® is also not affected by fire, acid, saline or petroleum products—all factors that can catastrophically damage gabion walls. - Versatility: At Gravity Wall Systems, we pride ourselves on the versatility of the Graviti® MassBloc® range. Our blocks can range in size from 940kg to over 3700kg and can be used for road projects, oceanic retaining walls, stormwater retention basins, river bank stabilisers, bridge abutments and much more.
Implement a Graviti® MassBloc® Wall Today
Whether there is a gabion wall that needs to be replaced with a superior structure or a brand new project calling for the best in Gravity retention, GRAVITI®BLOCK is the best option on the market. At Gravity Wall Systems, we can even provide a design service, to help ensure that your project meets all local council regulations.
Call us today on 0414 382 921 to enquire about this service! Be Sure to ask for our Technical tests Document