The detail

Helping to “futureproof” Belfast Harbour’s facilities, the new VT2 has enabled Stena Line to increase freight capacity by 40%, reduce turnaround times, and enhance connectivity to key markets. Demonstrating continuous improvement, we achieved an 80% time reduction between the demolition of Dolphin F1 (50 days) in comparison to each of the remaining five Dolphins (10 days each). This was achieved by switching methodology and using more advanced equipment. In turn, the environmental risk was mitigated as this demolition approach facilitated full containment. Piles were driven with a 26 tonne vibrating hammer to refusal, before a persuasive hammer was adopted to drive to design level with a soft start procedure. All dolphin piles were installed using our bespoke hydraulic piling gate system from a 280 tonne crane barge. Highlighting further efficiencies, we saved approximately eight weeks of design and fabrication time by reusing the existing linkspan structure as our piling gate. By burning off large sections of the structure, with a view to reusing it, the need for on-site welding was significantly reduced.