BHP Billiton's RGP6 (Rapid Growth Project Phase 6) - Western Australia
LDD was contracted by McConnell Dowell Constructors 2010 to carry out specialist pile drilling services on BHP Billiton’s Rapid Growth Project Phase 6, Port Hedland, Australia.
The project involves the installation of more than 300 tubular piles ranging from 1050mm to 1350mm and installed from floating construction plant for the 800m long wharf.
LDD was selected for the expertise it provided in the design, build and operation of under-reaming drilling systems as part of the 3D (drive/drill/drive) pile installation technique for the project. This technique allows piles to achieve pile installation to target depth in the event of early pile driving refusal by drilling, and where necessary under-reaming below the pile toe to reduce overall driving resistance. LDD supplied bespoke under-reaming systems to allow for drilling up to the outside diameter for the range of piles to be installed.
LDD anticipates being at RGP6 until the middle of 2011 when the pile installation programme is expected to reach successful completion.