Crane Rail Extension Works Progressing Well

Civil engineering works to extend the terminal’s third crane rail continue to progress well.

The works involve the construction of an additional 195 metres of reinforced concrete crane beam which will allow the third crane rail to be extended to a total length of 695 metres and will enable the terminal’s super post-panamax cranes to work on vessels on berths 205, 206 and now 207.

Talking about the works, David Holt, Engineering Projects Manager, DP World Southampton, said:

“We have made good progress on extending the 35 metre gauge landside crane rail and as a result of careful planning and phasing of the work, have been able to minimise the impact on terminal operations.   This has been very much assisted by the close working relationship of the Engineering and Operations Departments as well as the flexibility provided by the civil engineering contractor.  We look forward to seeing all four of the super post-panamax cranes using the new rail in the near future.”

Foundations for the new crane beam are being provided by the installation of 178 piles 25 metres in length each having a design vertical load capacity of approximately 200 tonnes.  The piling will support a beam which measures 2 metres wide and 1.5m high which will be buried in the ground out of sight.

Other civil works involved in the project include the installation of storm anchor blocks for the two new super post-panamax cranes due to become operational during this summer and new drainage with oil separators to further enhance the environmental protection being provided to the River Test.