Installation of the first casisson for Tuas Port Phase 2
Reclamation works on the second phase of the Tuas Next-Generation Port officially began on 4 July 2019, with the installation of the first caisson.
To be reclaimed at 387 hectares, Phase 2 is the largest of four phases to be developed by The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). When completed in 2027, Phase 2 will add a capacity of 21 million twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEUs). The mega port is designed to handle all Singapore’s container operations by 2040 with a total capacity of 65 million TEUs.
MPA awarded the reclamation project to the PHB joint venture—between Penta-Ocean Construction Co Ltd, Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co Ltd and Boskalis International BV—in 2018. The 8.6-kilometre wharf structure will be constructed with 227 giant concrete caissons, which will be fabricated on site.
The project team will use innovative construction methods to boost safety and improve productivity. For example, the project team will use a slip form jack monitoring system and rebar modularisation for the fabrication of the caissons. This monitoring system provides unobstructed view of the hydraulic system for prompt rectifications of the hydraulic system, while rebar modularisation allows for the pre-fabrication of steel bars for the base slab, improving the safety of those working under the steel bars.
Modern construction technology such as an automated curing system, a water circulation system, helps to control the quality of the base slab, while artificial intelligence such as facial recognition tools and video analytics help detect security breaches and prevent potential injury at the caisson fabrication yard.
Digitalised Port Processes
The Tuas Terminal will also be highly digitalised to optimise processes and enhance information-flow and sharing. MPA’s Maritime Single Window (MSW) will serve as a one-stop portal for reporting and port clearance processes through data exchange. Phase 1 of the MSW will be launched later this year and will streamline processes of agencies such as MPA, National Environment Agency, and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.
Tuas Port will also be the first terminal in Singapore to be physically and digitally integrated with the wider supply chain network. CALISTATM, improving efficiencies between vessels, cargo owners and logistics service providers.
“Tuas Terminal will be digitalised and smart, and integrated with the wider supply chain network. This will be key to maintaining our position as a leading global hub port,” said Dr Lam Pin Min, Senior Minister of State for Transport and Health, at the launch ceremony.— Construction+ Online
