REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES C

m
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
!:
~
MANILA iI

1 6 MAR 2018
":-:2
DEPARTMENTORDER ) SUBJECT: Amendment to DPWH Standard
Specification for Item 1714 -

NO.
42 ~
)
Gabions and Mattresses

Series of 201~~.~.(1

It has been the thrust of the Department to provide effective standard specifications in the
implementation of various infrastructure projects. As such, there is a need to set an updated
standard specification for the proper fabrication and installation of gabions and mattresses in
flood control projects. The attached amendment for the DPWH Standard Specification
for Gabions and Mattresses, Item 1714 is hereby prescribed for the guidance
and compliance of all concerned.

This specification shall form part of the on-going reVISion of the DPWH Standard
Specifications for Public Work Structures - Buildings, Ports and Harbors, Flood Control and
Drainage Structure and Water Supply Systems, Volume III, 1995 Edition.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

~~-'--
MARKA. VILLAR
Secretary

14.1.2 FETjRGT
Departrrent of Public Works and Highways
Office of the Secretary

1111111111111111111111111111111111111
WIN8U01581
 Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for
ITEM 1714 - GABIONS AND MATTRESSES

1714.1 Description

This Item shall consist of furnishing, forming cages, cylinders or boxes filled with rocks
installed at the locations designated, in accordance with this Specification and in conformity
with the lines, grades, dimensions, and arrangements shown on the Plans or as directed by
the Engineer.

1714.2 Material Requirements

1714.2.1 General

1. Wire mesh gabions shall be constructed of steel wire mesh and shall be supplied in various
lengths and heights. A double twisted wire mesh container of variable sizes, uniformly
partitioned into internal cells, interconnected with other similar units, and filled with stones
at the project site to form flexible, permeable, monolithic structures such as retaining
walls, sea walls, channel linings, revetments and weirs for erosion control. The lengths
shall be multiples of 2, 3 or 4 times the width of the gabion and heights shall be 0.50 m
to 1.00 m or as shown on the Plans. The horizontal width shall not be less than one (1)
meter. Gabion furnished shall be of uniform width.

The width, height and length of the gabion as manufactured shall not differ by more than
±5 percent from the ordered size prior to filling.

2. Mattresses are double twisted wire mesh container uniformly partitioned into internal cells
with relatively small height in relation to other dimensions, having smaller mesh openings
than the mesh used for wire mesh gabions. Mattresses are generally used for riverbank
protection and channel linings. The length shall be three (3) m to six (6) m, the width shall
be two (2) m and the height shall be 0.17 m, 0.23 m or 0.30 m or as shown on the Plans.

The width and length of the revet mattress as manufactured shall not differ by
more than ±5 percent, and the height shall not differ more than ±10 percent from the
ordered size prior to filling.

3. Polyester net gabions shall be made of knit structured net bag and shall be supplied in
various diameters and heights. It shall have a robust engineered net structure that shall
be lifted without damage even when filled with tonnage of stones.

The material for the net gabion shall be polyester. Polyester is a term often defined as
"long-chain polymers chemically composed of at least 85 percent by weight of an ester
and a dihydric alcohol and a terephthalic acid". In other words, it means the linking of
several esters within the fibers. Reaction of alcohol with carboxylic acid results in the
formation of esters. Polyester is a category of polymers that contain the ester functional
group in their main chain. As a specific material, it most commonly refers to a type called
polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

Type A polyester net gabion shall be used as river revetment and as foot protection around
bridge piers. It shall also be used as emergency measures during flood situations.
 Department Order No. 4-). .Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 2 of 14

Type B polyester net gabions shall be used as foundation and foot protectiol') of seashore
protective structures and as slope protection along seashores. It is also used for temporary
road slope protections.

1714.2.2 Wire Mesh Gabions and Mattresses

The wire used in the manufacture of double-twisted mesh for use in gabions and mattresses
shall conform to the Specifications as shown below as appropriate for the style ordered.

1714.2.2.1 Style 1 double-twisted mesh shall be manufactured from zinc-coated steel wire
conforming to Specification ASTM A641M, Standard Specification for Zinc-Coated
(Galvanized) Carbon Steel Wire, Class 3 coating, soft temper.

1714.2.2.2 Style 2 double-twisted mesh shall be manufactured from Zn-5A1-MM-coated

steel wire conforming to Specification ASTM A856M, Standard Specification for
Zinc - five (5) percent Aluminum-Mischmetal Alloy-Coated Carbon Steel Wire,
Class 3 coating, soft temper.

1714.2.2.3 Style 3 double-twisted mesh shall be manufactured from the same type of
metallic-coated steel wire as Style 1 with an additional PVC coating extruded into
the metallic-coated steel wire. The PVC coating shall conform to the following
requirements:

Table 1714.1 - Requirements for PVC Coating

Property Requirement Test Method

1. Specific Gravity 1.30 to 1.35 ASTM 0792
2. Tensile Strenqth, Min. 20.6 MPa ASTM 0412
3. Modulus of Elasticity, Min. 18.6 MPa ASTM 0412
4. Hardness, shore "0" between 50 & 60 ASTM 02240
5. Brittleness Temp, Max. -9°C or lower temperature ASTM 0746
6. Resistance to Abrasion, %
12 ASTM 01242
Weiqht loss, Max.

The PVC coating shall not show cracks or breaks after the wires are twisted in the fabrication
of the mesh.

1714.2.2.4 Style 4 double-twisted mesh shall be manufactured from aluminum-coated steel

wire conforming to Specification ASTM A809, Standard Specification for
Aluminum-Coated (Aluminized) Carbon Steel Wire, soft temper.

1714.2.3 Lacing Wire and Stiffener

Lacing wire and stiffeners shall be made of wire having the same coating material as the
double-twisted wire mesh conforming to Specification ASTM A641M, ASTM A856M or
ASTM A809 with a tensile strength in accordance with Subsection 1714.2.7, Mechanical
Properties.

1714.2.4 Fasteners made from zinc-coated steel wire, zinc-five (5) percent aluminum
mischmetal alloy-coated steel wire and aluminum-coated steel wire shall be Type
 Department Order No. 42 . Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 3 of 14

A, B, or C and shall conform to Table 2 - Tensile Requirements-Finish 1 (Drawn

to Size Metallic Coated), Regular or Class 1 Coating (One Class on Coating Type A)
or Table 3 - Tensile Requirements-Finish 2 (Metallic Coated at Size) Regular, Class
1 or Class 3 Coating (One Class on Coating Type A) of ASTM A764, Standard
Specification for Metallic Coated Carbon Steel Wire, Coated at Size and Drawn to
Size for Mechanical Springs.

1714.2.5 Wire mesh gabions and mattresses shall be manufactured with all components
mechanically connected at the production facility with the exception of the
mattresses lid that is produced separately from the base. All gabions and
mattresses shall be supplied in collapsed form, either folded and bundled or rolled,
for shipping.

1714.2.6 Dimensions

The minimum size of the galvanized and PVC coated wire to be used in the fabrication of the
wire mesh gabions and mattresses shall be as follows:

Table 1714.2 - Wire Diameters

Gabions and Gabions Mattresses

Mattresses Metallic PVC Metallic PVC
Wires Coated Coated Coated Coated
Body Wires 3.05 2.70 2.20 2.20
Selvedge or
3.80 3.40 2.70 2.70
Perimeter Wire
Tying and 2.20 2.20 2.20 2.20
Connecting Wire

Diameter Tolerances for Galvanized Wire to be used in the fabrication of wire mesh gabion
and mattress shall be ± 0.10 mm.

The nominal and the minimum thickness of PVC coating shall be 0.50 mm and 0.38 mm,
respectively.

1714.2.7 Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength - The tensile strength of zinc-coated wire used in the fabrication of wire
mesh gabions and mattresses when tested in accordance with ASTM A370, Standard Test
Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products, shall be as follows:

Table 1714.3 - Strength Requirements of Zinc-Coated Wires

Gabions and Mattresses Strength, MPa

Wires Gabions Mattresses
Body Wire 350 - 485 350 - 515
Selvedge or Perimeter Wire 350 - 485 350 - 485
Tying and Connecting Wire 350 - 515 350 - 515
 Department Order No. 4J. . Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 4 of 14

1714.2.8 Weight of Coating

The minimum weight of zinc per unit area of uncoated wire surface shall be in accordance
with ASTM A975, Standard Specification for Double - Twisted Hexagonal Mesh Gabions and
Revet Mattresses [Metallic-Coated Steel Wire or Metallic - Coated Steel Wire with Poly(Vinyl
Chloride) (PVC) Coating] or as follows:

Table 1714.4 - Minimum Weights of Zinc Coating

Wire Diameter, mm Class 3 or A Coating, g/m2, ASTM A 641

Over 1.90 to 2.30 220

Over 2.30 to 2.70 230
Over 2.70 to 3.10 240
Over 3.10 to 3.50 260
Over 3.50 to 3.90 270

The minimum weight of aluminum coating per unit area of uncoated wire surface shall be in
accordance with ASTM A809, Standard Specification for Aluminum-Coated (Aluminized)
Carbon Steel Wire:

Table 1714.5 - Minimum Weights of Aluminum Coating

Wire Diameter, mm Minimum Wei ht of Coatin, 1m2

2.03 to under 2.34 92
2.34 to under 2.69 98
2.69 to under 3.76 107
3.76 to under 6.20 122
6.20 122

1714.2.9 Polyester Net Gabions

1714.2.9.1 Structural Features

The knitted (raschel) net bags shall be made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
bottles. It shall be durable to resist drop impact and to avoid the development of ruptures due
to abrasion against rocks and gravels in rivers or seashores. The physical properties and
strength requirements of the net bag are shown in Table 1714.6 and Table 1714.7,
respectively.
 Department Order No. ~. Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 5 of 14

Table 1714.6 - Physical Requirements

Wei~ht
Property Type
iton 2 ton 3 ton 4 ton 6 ton Ston
Width A 2800 mm 2800 mm 3400 mm 3400 mm - -
(Minimum) B 1800 mm 2250 mm 2600 mm 2850 mm 4000 mm 4000 mm
Height A 1600 mm 2100 mm 2200 mm 2800 mm - -
(Minimum) B 1600 mm 2150 mm 2400 mm 2650 mm 2700 mm 2700 mm
Mesh A 1670dtexA x lOB 1670dtexA x 15B -
Composition B 1670dtexA x 80B 1670dtexA x 80B 1670dtexA x 128B
A 25 mm 25 mm 25 mm 25 mm -
Mesh Size
B 75 mm 75 mm 50mm 75 mm 50 mm
A 0.5 - 0.62 1.0 - 1.25 1.5 - 1.9 2.0 - 2.25 - -
Capacity (m3)
B 0.5 - 0.65 1.0 - 1.25 1.5 - 1.9 2.0 - 2.5 3.0 - 3.75 4.0 - 5.0
A Decitex is a unit for the mass offiber in grams per 10,000 meters.
B Number of strings

Table 1714.7 - Strength Requirements

Wei ;Jht
Property Type
lton 2 ton 3 ton 4 ton 6 ton Ston
Tensile Strength A > 450 > 450 > 650 > 650 - -
(N/Strinq) B > 2700 > 2700 > 2700 > 2700 > 4000 > 4000
A 30%>50% 30%>50% 30%>50% 30%>50% - -
Elongation Rate
B 30%>50% 30%>50% 30%>50% 30%>50% 30%>50% 30%>50%

1714.2.9.2 Method of Tensile Test for the Net Yarn

The test method for tensile strength of the net yarn shall be as specified below and in
accordance with ASTM 07179, Standard Test Method for Determining Geonet Breaking Force.
When the tensile strength and elongation of the material are verified, the test method which
is equivalent to or covering the following specifications shall be adopted.

1. The temperature condition inside the laboratory shall be 20 °C±2 and the relative humidity
shall be 65±2 percent. In case it is difficult to follow this standard ambient condition, the
actual temperature and humidity inside the laboratory during the test period shall be
recorded.

2. The specimen shall have a length of 250 mm and 10 test pieces shall be taken from the
area at least 50 cm from the end of net fabric. The specimen shall then be stored in the
laboratory under the above-mentioned condition for 24 hours.

3. After 24 hours, five (5) test pieces shall be taken each in lateral and longitudinal directions
from the specimen that is a total of 10 pieces, respectively, and the tensile strength at
break shall be measured with the constant-rate-of extension type tensile tester.

4. During the measurement process, the steel hooks shall be fixed on the constant-rate-of
extension type tensile tester, then the test piece with two (2) knots per a net yarn is
suspended by the upper and lower hooks.

5. In case the specimen accidentally breaks in the hook and shows irregular values, test shall
be repeated.
 Department Order No. Iit . Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 6 of 14

6. The highest and lowest values shall be recorded. The average of the 10 res':Jlts shall also
be evaluated, and shall become the tensile strength.

1714.2.9.3 Other Characteristic Features

The net bag shall be durable enough to prevent any sort of deterioration due to prolonged
exposure to harsh environmental and weather conditions, such as pollution, humidity, strong
sunlight, wind, moisture, and extreme temperature.

It shall also have high chemical resistance or the strength to protect against chemical attack
or solvent reaction especially when exposed to high temperature, concentration of chemicals,
exposure duration and mechanical load.

It shall also be flame-retardant so that when it melts by fire, the flame shall not spread. It
shall not emit pyric toxic gas, and other toxic substance that could obstruct eco-systemic
habitation underwater. The Contractor shall submit Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) of the
polyester net bag, similar certificates or test results in order to confirm these features to the
Engineer.

1714.2.10 Rope

1714.2.10.1 Structural Features

The rope for lifting and tying the net bags shall be made of spun-dyed polyester. It shall have
enough strength to hold the filling materials. The rope requirements are shown in Table
1714.8.
Table 1714.8 - Rope Requirements

WeiQht
Property Type
iton 2 ton 3 ton 4 ton 6 ton Stan
Diameter
(mm)
Neck Tying A 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 - -
Rope B 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00
Suspending A 9.00 9.00 12.00 12.00 - -
Rope B 9.00 9.00 12.00 12.00 18.00 18.00
Bottom Tying A 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 - -
Rope B 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 12.00 12.00
Tensile
Strength
(kN/string)
Neck Tying A > 3.50 > 3.50 > 3.50 > 3.50 - -
Rope B > 3.50 > 3.50 > 3.50 > 3.50 > 3.50 > 3.50
Suspending A > 12.00 > 12.00 > 22.00 > 22.00 -
Rope B > 12.00 > 12.00 > 22.00 > 22.00 > 46.70 > 46.70
Bottom Tying A > 12.00 > 12.00 > 12.00 > 12.00 -
Rope B > 12.00 > 12.00 > 12.00 > 12.00 > 22.00 > 22.00
Elongation
Rate (Ufo)
Neck Tying A < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% - -
Rope B < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40%
Suspending A < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% - -
Rope B < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40%
Bottom Tying A < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% - -
Rope B < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40% < 40%
 Department Order No. ~ . Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 7 of 14

1714.2.10.2 Method of Tensile Test for the Rope

The method of tensile test for the rope shall be as specified below. When the tensile strength
and elongation of the material are verified, the test method which is equivalent or covering
the following specifications shall be adopted.

1. The condition inside the laboratory shall be as discussed in Subsection 1714.2.9.2 (1),
Method of Tensile Test for the Net Yarn.

2. The specimen for the test shall have sufficient length to take the effective length indicated
in item number seven (7) below. It shall be stored in the laboratory under the above-
mentioned ambient condition, until the difference of the mass of specimen becomes less
than 0.3 percent from the one previously weighed one (1) hour or longer. The mass (kg)
of the specimen shall then be recorded. Five (5) pieces of specimens shall be tested.

3. After weighing the mass (kg), both ends of the specimen shall be stretched, the specimen
shall be on a plane, and its length (11) shall be measured. Two marks at 30 cm or 50 cm
interval shall be indicated in the middle part of the specimen, and the distance (d!)
between these two (2) marks shall be measured.

4. The specimen shall be attached to a constant-rate-of-traverse type tensile tester, and the
load shall be increased gradually. When the load reaches the initial load specified in Table
1714.9, increasing of the load shall then be stopped, and the distance (dz) between the
two marks shall be measured.

5. The length of one (1) strand generated by twisting in unit of mm at three (3) locations
shall be measured, and the obtained three (3) measurements shall be averaged.

6. The load again shall be increased gradually and continuously until the specimen rope
breaks down. The speed shall be within 300 mm/min until the load reaches 50 percent of
the specified tensile strength in Table 1714.9 and thereafter within 150 mm/min.

7. The effective length of the specimen, such as the inside distance between the clamps of
tester, shall be 30 times or more than the nominal thickness. However, the specimen's
length shall be limited to 0.5 m.

8. In case the specimen accidentally breaks in the hook and shows irregular values, test shall
be repeated.

9. The highest and lowest values shall be recorded. The average of the five (5) results shall
also be evaluated and this becomes the tensile strength.

10. During the test of the tensile strength, the distance between the two (2) marks placed in
the middle part of the specimen shall be measured when the test load reaches 75 percent
of the specified tensile strength of the rope. The elongation percentage shall be calculated
by the following formula:
 Department Order No. 42.,
Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 8 of 14

Elongation percentage (%) = d3izdZ x 100

where,
dz : Distance (cm) between Two (2) Marks on the specimen after Initial
Loading.
d3 : Distance (cm) between Two (2) Marks Measured, When Test Load
Reaches 75 percent of Specified Tensile Strength of Rope.

Table 1714.9 - Test Criteria for Polyester Rope

Thickness Initial Load Tensile Strength

(mm) (N) (kN)

6 39 3.53

9 98 7.45

12 180 14.6

1714.2.11 Filling Materials

Rocks used in gabions and mattresses shall consist of hard, durable rock pieces that will not
deteriorate when submerged in water or exposed to severe weather conditions. Rock pieces
shall be generally uniformly graded in sizes ranging from 100 mm to 200 mm. Filled gabions
shall have a minimum density of 1,400 kg/m3• Voids shall be evenly distributed.

No rock size shall exceed 2/3 the mattress depth and at least 85 percent by weight of the
stone shall have a size greater than 80 mm. No stone shall be able to pass through the mesh.

The filling materials for polyester net gabions shall either be cobble stones, rubbles, broken
stones, concrete lumps or other filling materials as approved by the Engineer. The filling
materials shall conform to the requirements shown in Table 1714.10.

Table 1714.10 - Filling Materials Requirements

Weight
Property Type
lton 2 ton 3 ton 4 ton 6 ton Ston
A 50 - 190 50 - 190 50 - 190 50 - 190 - -
Diameter (mm)
B 100 - 190 100 - 190 100 - 190 100 - 190 100 - 190 100 - 190

1714.2.12 Filter Fabric

The filter fabric material shall consist of non-woven filaments formed from plastic yarn of a
long - chain synthetic polymer composed of at least 85 percent by weight polyolefin, or
polyesters, and shall contain stabilizers and/or inhibitors added to the base plastic to make
the filaments resistant to deterioration due to ultra violet light and heat exposure. After
forming, the fabric shall be processed so that the filaments retain their relative positions with
respect to each other. The fabric shall be free of defects or flaws which significantly affect its
physical and/or filtering properties. The texture of the fabric shall be such that the gabion and
foundation will remain in an equilibrium state and not slip or slide. The filter fabric shall be rot
 Department Order No. ¢'A. Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 9 of 14

proof, mildew proof, insect resistant and have a high dimensional stability w~en wet. The
fabric shall also have good soil filtration characteristics, high resistance to tear propagation in
all directions, and meet the following specifications:

Table 1714.11- Types of Geotextile for Filter Fabric

ASTM Geotextile Property Requirements

Geotextile Property Test Separation Soil Stabilization
Method Woven I Nonwoven Woven Nonwoven
AOS D4751 No. 30 Max. No. 40 Max.
Water Permittivity D4491 0.02 see1 Min. 0.10 see1 Min.
Grab Tensile Strength, in
115 kg. 145 kg.
machine and x-machine D4632 75 kg. Min. 92 kg. Min.
Min. Min.
direction
Grab Failure Strain, in
machine and x-machine D4632 < 50% ~ 50% < 50% ~ 50%
direction
100 kg. 125 kg.
Seam Breaking Strength D4632 65 kg. Min. 80 kg. Min.
Min. Min.
225 kg. 140 kg. 280 kg.
Puncture Resistance D6241 195 kg. Min.
Min. Min. Min.
Tear Strength, in machine
D4533 35 kg. Min. 23 kg. Min. 50 kg. Min. 35 kg. Min.
and x-machine direction
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation 50% strength retained Min., after 500
D4355
Stability hours in xenon arc device

1714.3 Construction Requirements

1714.3.1 Wire Mesh Gabions and Mattresses

1714.3.1.1 Foundation Preparation

The foundation on which the gabions are to be placed shall be cut or filled and graded to the
lines and grades shown on the drawings. Surface irregularities, loose material, vegetation, and
all foreign matter shall be removed from foundation surface area. When fill is required, it shall
consist of materials conforming to the specified requirements. Gabions and bedding or specified
geotextiles shall not be placed until the foundation preparation is completed, and the subgrade
surfaces have been inspected and approved by the Engineer.

1714.3.1.2 Fabrication

1. Wire mesh gabions and mattresses shall be in the form of rectangular baskets of the
required dimensions and shall be manufactured from wire as specified in Subsection
1714.2.2, Wire Mesh Gabions and Mattresses. Gabions shall be made of steel wire double
twisted forming a uniform hexagonal mesh type 8 x 10 having a nominal mesh openings
of 83 x 114 mm. Mattresses shall be made of steel wire double twisted forming a uniform
hexagonal mesh type 6 x 8 having a nominal mesh openings of 64 x 83 mm. Tolerances
 Department Order No. 1z. Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 10 of 14

on the hexagonal, double-twisted wire mesh opening shall not exceed ±1O pE;!rcenton the
nominal dimension D values, 64 mm for mattresses and 83 mm for gabions. The edges
shall be formed into a securely connected selvedge adequate to prevent raveling.

Individual basket ties and connections shall be made by using a quantity of wire not less
than 8 percent of the weight of each basket.

2. When the wire mesh gabion length exceeds its width, it shall have securely tied diaphragms
connected at all edges to form individual cells of equal length and width.

Wire mesh gabions shall be fabricated in such a manner that the sides, ends, lids and
diaphragms can be assembled at the construction site into rectangular baskets of the
specified sizes. Wire mesh gabions shall be of single unit construction, base, lids, ends and
sides shall be either woven into a single unit or one edge of these members connected to
the base section of the gabion in such a manner that the strength and flexibility at the point
of connection is at least equal to that of the mesh.

The wire mesh gabion shall be equally divided by diaphragms, placed at not more than one
(1) m intervals, and of the same mesh and gauge as the body of the gabions, into cells the
length of which does not exceed the horizontal width. The gabion shall be furnished with
the necessary diaphragms secured in proper position on the base in such a manner that no
additional tying at this junction will be necessary.

3. Four (4) cross-connecting wires shall be provided in each cell having a height of one-half
(1/2) the width or less, and eight (8) cross-connecting wires shall be provided in each cell
having a height greater than one-half (1/2) the width.

All perimeter edge of the mesh forming the gabion shall be securely selvedged so that the
joints, by tying the selvedges, have at least the same strength as the body of the mesh.

Selvedge wire used through all the edges (perimeter wire) shall not be less than 3.80 mm
diameter and shall meet the same specifications as the wire mesh.

1714.3.1.3 Assembly and Construction

1. Wire mesh gabions shall be installed in a workmanlike manner. The gabions shall be placed
on a smooth foundation. The final line and grade shall be approved by the Engineer.

Each wire mesh gabion unit shall be assembled by binding together all vertical edges with
wire ties on approximately 152 mm spacing or by a continuous piece of connecting wire
stitched around the vertical edges with a coil every 102 mm. Empty gabion units shall be
set to line and grade as shown on the Plans or as described by the Engineer. Wire ties or
connecting wires shall be used to join the units together in the same manner as described
above for assembling. Internal tie wires shall be uniformly spaced and securely fastened
in each cell of the structure.

A standard fence stretcher, chain fall, or iron rod may be used to stretch the wire baskets
and hold alignment.

2. When possible the subgrade of the mattress and gabion shall be properly compacted to a
depth of 150 mm. The Contractor shall consider the cost of subgrade preparation in the
 Department Order No. 4'- . Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 11 of 14

unit prices. Filter fabric as beds of gabions and mattresses forming the stru~ture shall be
suitably leveled and shall be securely connected along the complete length of all contact
edges by means of the above specified tying and connecting wire.

3. Before the filling material is placed, the wire mesh gabions and mattresses shall be
carefully selected for uniformity of size, and the pieces shall be hand placed to provide a
neat appearance as approved by the Engineer.

The vertical joints of gabions and mattress baskets shall be staggered as in running bond
in brickwork.

4. The cells in any row shall be filled in stage so that local deformation may be avoided. That
is at no time shall the cell be filled to a depth exceeding 300 mm more than the adjoining
cell.

5. Filter fabric shall be placed between earth surface and gabion or mattress structures. Filter
fabric shall be rolled out into a flat non-rutted surface free from sharp objects, weighing
down the edges. Construction equipment shall not be allowed into unprotected fabric.
Jointing is normally affected by overlapping not less than 300 mm, but it is preferable to
joint by sewing or industrial stapling. Joint edges should be facing downwards to avoid
protruding through the surface material.

1714.3.1.4 Filling Operation

The wire mesh gabions shall be carefully filled with rock, either by machine or hand methods,
ensuring alignment, avoiding bulges, and providing a compact mass that minimizes voids.
Machine placement will require supplementing with handwork to ensure the desired results.
The cells in any row shall be filled in stages so that the depth of rock placed in anyone (1)
cell does not exceed the depth of rock in any adjoining cell by more than 304 mm. Along the
exposed faces, the outer layer of stone shall be carefully placed and arranged by hand to
ensure a neat, compact placement with a uniform appearance.

The last layer of rock shall be uniformly leveled to the top edges of the gabions. Lids shall be
placed over the rock filling using only approved lid closing tools as necessary. The use of
crowbars or other single point leverage bars for lid closing is prohibited due to the potential
for damage to the baskets.

Any damage to the wire or coatings during assembly, placement and filling shall be repaired
promptly in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations or replaced with
undamaged gabion baskets.

1714.3.2 Polyester Net Gabions

1714.3.2.1 Delivery, Storage and Handling

All net bags and ropes shall be stored, immediately upon delivery at the project site. Provisions
for storage shall be sufficient, clean and free from hazardous materials. Net bags shall not be
stored or mixed with other construction materials. Delivery and handling shall be done in such
a manner that no damage to polyester net gabions shall occur.
 Department Order No. 1~. Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 12 of 14

To avoid dropping the bag during the installation, the hook shall be detac~ed after the
polyester net gabions are placed at the designated locations. Polyester net bags and ropes
shall be kept away from flammable materials/substances.

1714.3.2.2 Equipment

The equipment for filling the polyester net gabion shall be a 128 HP hydraulic crawler backhoe
with a capacity of one (1) cubic meter. A 25-tonner crawler crane shall be used for lifting the
filled polyester net gabion to its designated location as shown on the drawing or as directed
by the Engineer.

In case the general equipment is not suitable to the site conditions, alternative equipment
shall be proposed by the Contractor depending on the site condition and approved by the
Engineer prior to utilization.

1714.3.2.3 Site Preparation

Clearing and grubbing shall be undertaken prior to placing of polyester net gabion. In
underwater conditions such as rivers, debris and other unnecessary obstructions shall be
removed prior to placement of polyester net gabion.

1714.3.2.4 Filling and Tying

The neck tying structure of polyester net gabion shall have a shape that would not project a
tying knot to outside of the net bag. Tying shall be done firmly and secured so as not to allow
the filling materials to spread outside of the net while lifting, installing, placing, and arranging
to the desired location, elevation, and alignment.

The net bag shall be fitted inside a cylindrical mold preferably made of a steel frame. The net
bag shall be visually examined to confirm that there is no damage and shall be fixed completely
and held firm on the mold. Then the filling materials shall be fed into the bag by a backhoe.

1714.3.2.5 Trial Section

At the first structure of polyester net gabions, the trial section shall be made with the close
supervision by the Engineer to demonstrate the adequacy of the proposed working method.
The demonstration section shall be at least 20 linear meters in the longitudinal length.

Within seven (7) days after completion of the trial section, the Engineer shall determine and
approve the adequacy of the section. The trial section shall be treated as part of the
permanent works as to the instruction of the Engineer. The trial section shall be removed if
so determined by the Engineer.

1714.3.2.6 Installation

After filling the net bag, the neck shall be tied up with a rope, the mold shall be opened and
the net shall be hoisted and moved by crane on the desired location, elevation and alignment
as provided in the drawing or as directed by the Engineer. Lifting ropes shall be arranged to
have the same length so that the lifting load shall be divided evenly to each lifting rope.
 Department Order No. 42.. Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 13 of 14

The quality of installation work of the polyester net gabion shall be confirmed wjth the shape
of the polyester net gabion and the quantity of the consumed net bag as determined in the
design and in accordance with the Plans.

The polyester net gabion shall take the following form after installation:

Table 1714.12 - Dimension Requirement after Installation of Net Gabions

Wei~ht
Property Type
iton 2 ton 3 ton 4 ton 6 ton Ston
A 1600 2100 2300 2700 - -
Diameter (mm)
B 1700 2100 2400 2700 3300 3600
A 480 600 700 750 - -
Height (mm)
B 550 700 750 900 950 950
Circumferential A 320 350 400 420 - -
height (mm) B 300 400 500 500 500 500

1714.4 Method of Measurement

The quantities to be paid for shall be the number of cubic meter of gabions and mattresses
and the area of filter cloth completed and accepted.

Polyester net gabions shall be paid for each number of polyester net gabion in bag-filled
materials installed and arranged properly as to the required location, elevation, and alignment
shown on the drawings and as approved by the Engineer.

1714.5 Basis of Payment

Quantities determined as provided above shall be paid for at the appropriate contract unit
price per unit of measurement for the Pay Item shown in the Bid Schedule, which price and
payment shall constitute full compensation for all necessary excavation, subgrade preparation,
for furnishing, placing polyester net gabions or placing wire baskets and fill materials and for
all labor, equipment accessories, tools, and incidentals necessary to complete the Item.

Payment shall be made under:

Pay Item Unit of

Description
Number Measurement

1714 (1) a1 Gabions, O.Sm x 1m x 3m, Metallic Coated Cubic Meter

1714 (1) a2 Gabions, O.Sm x 1m x 4m, Metallic Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) a3 Gabions, 1m x 1m x 2m, Metallic Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) a4 Gabions, 1m x 1m x 3m, Metallic Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) as Gabions, 1m x 1m x 4m, Metallic Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) a6 Gabions, O.Sm x 1m x 2m, Metallic Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) b1 Gabions, O.Sm x 1m x 3m, PVC Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) b2 Gabions, O.Sm x 1m x 4m, PVC Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) b3 Gabions, 1m x 1m x 2m, PVC Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) b4 Gabions, 1m x 1m x 3m, PVC Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (1) bS Gabions, 1m x 1m x 4m, PVC Coated Cubic Meter
 Department Order No. 1f3.. • Series of 2018
Amendment to DPWH Standard Specification for Item 1714 - Gabions and Mattresses
Page 14 of 14

Pay Item Unit of

Description
Number Measurement
1714 (1) b6 Gabions, a.Sm x 1m x 2m, PVC Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (2) a1 Mattresses, a.3m x 2m x 6m, Metallic Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (2) a2 Mattresses, a.3 x 2m x 6m, PVC Coated Cubic Meter
1714 (3) Filter Cloth Square Meter
1714 (4) a1 Polyester Net Gabion, 1 tonne, Type I Each
1714 (4) a2 Polyester Net Gabion, 2 tonnes, Type I Each
1714 (4) a3 Polyester Net Gabion, 3 tonnes, Type I Each
1714 (4) a4 Polyester Net Gabion, 4 tonnes, Type I Each
1714 (4) b1 Polyester Net Gabion, 1 tonne, Type II Each
1714 (4) b2 Polyester Net Gabion, 2 tonnes, Type II Each
1714 (4) b3 Polyester Net Gabion, 3 tonnes, Type II Each
1714 (4) b4 Polyester Net Gabion, 4 tonnes, Type II Each
1714 (4) bS Polyester Net Gabion, 5 tonnes, Type II Each
1714 (4) b6 Polyester Net Gabion, 6 tonnes, Type II Each

References:

1. DPWH Standard Specifications for Public Works Structures (Buildings, Ports and Harbors, Rood
Control and Drainage Structures and Water Supply Systems) Volume II~ 1995 Edition
• Item 1404 - Filter Fabric and Aggregates
2. DPWH Standard Specifications for Public Highways, Bridges and Airports, Volume I~ 2012 Edition
• Item 511 - Gabions and Mattresses
3. https://www.astm.org
• ASTM A 975
• ASTM 974
4. www.permathene.com/documents/referencejinsta//ation/modular-gabions-instpdf
5. http://downloads. transportation. org/MSHTO_Materials_Standards_by_Standard_Number.pdf
6. Department Order No. 143, Series of 2017, Revised Standardized Pay Items of Work for Civil
Works Construction for Infrastructure Projects
7. http://ttp.dotstate.tx us/pub/txdot-info/cmd/cserve/specs/2004/standard/s459.pdf
8. Construction Specification Wire Mesh Gabions and Mattresses