Complex quay reinforcement in Molenbeek

In August 2025, Ready Beton contributed to a particularly challenging project at the Henegouwenkade in Molenbeek, Brussels. The existing quay structure, founded on concrete piles, had become unstable over the years. To provide structural reinforcement, the space beneath and behind the quay was filled with a concrete mix developed specifically for the project.

Due to the instability of the quay, the concrete pump could not be positioned near the work area. It was therefore set up on the opposite side of the canal. From there, the concrete mix was pumped to the quay through approximately 350 metres of pipeline. The delivery hose was supported by an excavator positioned on a pontoon. A diver placed the hose into openings in the quay, allowing the mix to be applied precisely at the required locations.

1,980 m³ in three days

Due to the nature and complexity of the set-up, the entire pour had to be completed as a single continuous operation. A total of 1,980 m³ of concrete mix was placed over a period of three days.

An additional challenge was that the works took place during a heatwave. This placed further demands on production, logistics, pumpability and the workability of the mix. Maintaining continuity throughout the operation was therefore essential.

Before the works commenced, two test days were held at the production site. The complete set-up was recreated and tested under practical conditions. These trials enabled both the mix design and the execution process to be further optimised.

Ensuring operational continuity

Additional measures were implemented to ensure operational reliability throughout the works. The concrete batching plant in Anderlecht and a standby pump remained available for the duration of the project.

Thanks to the technical preparation, practical trials and coordination between the parties involved, the project was successfully completed without interruption.