Associated Underwater Services, Inc. (AUS) provided specialized commercial diving and underwater inspection services for the Port of Seattle’s Terminal 5 Berth Modernization project. AUS performed cathodic protection installation, dredging, surveying, inspection, pile repair and burning sheet piles and king piles to elevation.
A key component of AUS’ scope was installing a welded continuity bar along the sheet pile wall to ensure full electrical continuity across the structure—critical for the effective performance of the impressed current cathodic protection system. Prior to the installation of zinc anodes, AUS divers conducted comprehensive underwater inspections and surface preparation of the sheet pile wall. This included the removal of marine growth, corrosion, and debris to ensure optimal weld adhesion and long-term system performance.
In total, AUS installed 300 zinc anodes: 45 anodes at 725 lbs. each and 255 anodes at 325 lbs. each. Each anode was welded directly to the cleaned steel surface in accordance with project design specifications. Following welding, divers applied SplashZone epoxy coating to all exposed weld areas to provide an additional layer of protection and extend the lifespan of the cathodic protection system.
Detailed underwater inspection reports were generated to document conditions before and after anode installation, as well as to verify the effectiveness of cleaning, welding, and coating operations to support quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
Throughout the project, AUS also conducted routine and as-needed underwater inspections to assist with planning, progress monitoring, and compliance verification with project specifications and environmental requirements. Additionally, AUS dive crews performed other general diving services throughout the project such pile jacket installations.
The project was completed safely and efficiently, with AUS adhering to all environmental and safety standards. This effort underscores AUS’s expertise in delivering high-quality underwater inspection, reporting, and subsea infrastructure solutions for complex marine construction projects.
