TensarTech® TW1 Wall System

3 Component System

1 Single Source for Design & Supply

25+ Years of Successful projects

Modular block faced reinforced soil retaining wall system – designed and supplied from a single reliable source
BBA certified and rigorously tested for stability, durability and load bearing capacity
Aesthetically versatile capable of accommodating curves and other design requirements
Smooth and split-face block options available in a choice of colours
High strength connection to permanently support the face - even under severe dynamic loading

Need a retaining wall or slope design for your project?

Tensar’s design team can produce a free of charge “Application Suggestion” to illustrate what Tensar can achieve and how much value can be added to your project.

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Overview

The TensarTech TW1 Wall System delivers substantial savings, as well as long-term durability and architectural versatility, compared to other retaining wall systems such as TensarTech TW3.

The retaining wall system consists of a pre-cast concrete modular block wall, securely connected to Tensar uniaxial geogrids which reinforce the soil behind, to create a stable structure with up to 120 year design life.

The TW1 concrete facing blocks, which form an 86° face angle, are simply dry-laid. No propping of the face is required. No cranes are required for construction of this modular wall system: the weight of the standard 150mm high block is suitable for manual handling. The Tensar TW1 block geometry allows corners, curves, stairs and other features to be incorporated easily, with a variety of colours available.

System Components

The TensarTech TW1 System includes advice, training and services from Tensar’s design and on-site teams, as well as three specific products. These are Tensar uniaxial geogrids (high density polyethylene with extremely high durability and no corrosion potential), TW1 modular blocks (high strength, durable factory produced pre-cast concrete blocks) and Tensar TW1 connector – for high strength connection between blocks and geogrid reinforcement.

Single-Source Solution

The components of the TensarTech TW1 system have been specifically designed to work together for optimum efficiency and performance. High-strength, low-absorption concrete blocks, high-shear strength connectors, and Tensar uniaxial geogrids work together to form a reinforced soil wall system that meets or exceeds the industry standard.  Tensar’s experienced engineers, using our sophisticated TensarSoil software, can provide everything from free application suggestions to a full design and supply service.

No Fuss - No Risk Construction – Simple and Rapid

With TensarTech TW1 systems, the modular wall system requires no heavy lifting equipment due to its interlocking block design. This simplifies the placement and alignment of the geogrid reinforcement, while ensuring the connection to the block face can be done without specialist skills. The rest is straightforward earthworks. Typically, no structural foundation is necessary, which keeps mobilisation costs low and staged construction easily accommodated. Tensar can provide detailed construction drawings as part of the design and supply service, and site assistance is available when needed. No fuss, simple and quick.

The Strength Behind the TensarTech TW1 System: Tensar Uniaxial Geogrid 

Tensar uniaxial geogrids are manufactured from select grades of HDPE resins that are highly oriented and resist deformation when subjected to even high tensile loads for long periods of time. Their open aperture structure interlocks with natural fill materials, making them ideal for reinforced soil applications, like the Tensar TW1. The high pH associated with concrete blocks does not affect the durability and functionality of HDPE geogrid reinforcement during a life of up to 120 years.

Independent Assessment and Approval

Highway Authorities Product Approval Scheme (HAPAS) was set up in 1995 to recognise innovative products and systems used in UK highway construction. It leads to a Certificate or Report which provides highway engineers with product performance, design and installation data invaluable to the product choice and project planning processes. The TensarTech TW1 System and selected Tensar uniaxial geogrids have been certified by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) and awarded HAPAS approval. The BBA certifies that Tensar geogrids and the TensarTech TW1 system have been evaluated independently as fit for their intended use.

Aesthetically Versatile

The distinctive geometry of the TW1 concrete facing blocks allows the creation of both internal and external curves. Corners, stairs and other features are easily formed. Based on your aesthetic requirements, TW1 units can be varied by color and texture, and walls can be built mixing different facing options: designs are nearly limitless.

Structural and Landscape Options

Whether you’re increasing usable land or improving property value, the TensarTech TW1 systems can solve your most challenging retaining wall requirements. From building large structural walls to small, tiered garden installations, TW1 split face blocks can blend effortlessly with the natural surroundings of any site. 

The Engineered Advantage™

Tensar is the industry leader in soil reinforcement solutions. We’ve been developing products and technologies, at the forefront of the geotechnical industry, for four decades. Our products are backed by the most thorough quality assurance practices in the industry. Tensar’s experienced engineers, using our sophisticated TensarSoil software, can provide everything from free application suggestions to a full design and supply service.