Post-Tension Tendon & Shotcrete Services at Palo Verde

Project Overview

As part of the WRSS 2025 infrastructure initiative for APS at Palo Verde, Bunney’s Inc. delivered specialized post-tension tendon installation and shotcrete rehabilitation services within a critical underground conduit structure. This work enhanced structural stability, protected against erosion, and supported long-term durability of the facility.

Scope of Work

  • Mobilization of crew, equipment, and safety systems within the plant’s civil works area
  • Excavation and preparation of a deep trench to access the existing large-diameter conduit
  • Installation of post-tensioning tendons to reinforce the conduit and resist external loads
  • Application of shotcrete to encapsulate and protect the conduit surfaces
  • Precision finishing and quality control to maintain alignment and structural tolerances
  • Compliance with APS’s safety, access, and procedural requirements throughout execution

Challenges & Solutions

  • Deep Trench Access: Coordinating safe ingress and egress under strict utility constraints; used robust fall protection and stabilizing measures
  • Structural Reinforcement: Designing tendon layout to integrate with existing conduit geometry without interference
  • Shotcrete Bonding: Ensuring proper adhesion and uniform coverage in a confined space with limited working room
  • Coordination with Onsite Operations: Maintaining APS facility security, scheduling around generation operations, and coordination of materials and sequencing

Safety & Quality Assurance

  • Implementation of full personal protective equipment (PPE), fall arrest systems, and barricaded zones
  • Continuous site inspections and oversight by project leadership
  • Testing and inspections for shotcrete integrity, tendon tensioning, and substrate conditions
  • Documentation and adherence to APS contract standards and specifications

Project Impact

This work strengthened a critical utility infrastructure asset at Palo Verde, providing enhanced structural support, erosion resistance, and long-term service life. Bunney’s Inc.’s execution aligned with APS’s expectations for reliability, safety, and technical rigor.