Union Pacific Rail Tunnel Rehabilitation

Years Active: 2024

Client: LRL Construction

Services Provided: Grout compression testing

Union Pacific Rail Tunnels #3 and #4 in the Laskeside Subdivision, east of Elko, Nevada were in need of rehabilitation. LRL Construction of Tillamook, OR, a specialist in tunnel construction for Class 1 railroads was awarded the prime contract for the first phase of the required repairs. LRL hired Thurston Laboratories to perform compression testing on grout used to stabilize anchor bolts in the tunnel walls.

Thurston Laboratories processed over 240 grout specimens throughout the course of the project. Samples consisted both of 2-inch grout cubes and 4"x8" grout cylinders. When some cubic specimens returned inconsistent results, Thurston Laboratories' personnel worked with the contractor and engineer of record to develop a more rigorous quality assurance program which ensured full confidence in the grout being placed. Thurston Laboratories' knowledge of field curing effects and academic research into the effects of form factor on test precision provided reliable testing and ensured the project could proceed without delay.