Keller’s alternative multi-product ground improvement scheme resulted in substantial savings over the conforming driven pile design.

Tuas Hull Shop project by Keller in Singapore
Keller's Tuas Hull Shop project in Singapore

The project

Jurong Shipyard, a fully-owned subsidiary of Sembcorp Marine, is a leading shipyard offering integrated services and customized solutions in ship repair, building and conversion and offshore engineering to a world-wide clientele. The development consisted of construction of dry docks, hull block assembly  workshop and other structures located in a recently reclaimed Tuas View extension. Working directly for the owner, Keller designed and executed a  ground improvement scheme for the hull block workshop.

The challenge

Site investigation reports revealed that the sub-soil consisted of 30 m thick reclamation fill comprising mostly of sand fill with up to 12 m sandy clay. A marine clay of 9 m thick was also found in the south-eastern part of the area  where the workshop will be constructed.

The solution

Keller performed Vibro compaction and installation of Prefabricated Vertical  Drains (PVDs) with surcharge. PVDs were installed to a depth of 25 to 40 m with a 5.6 m high surcharge in the area where the sandy clay and marine clay layers were found. An area of over 30,400 square meters was completed within one and a half months. Vibro compaction works were also carried out to improve the sandy layer that ranged from 15 m to 28 m. An area of more than 126,400 square meters was treated.

Project facts

Owner(s)

Jurong Shipyard Pte Ltd

Keller business unit(s)

Keller ASEAN

Main contractor(s)

Keller Foundatinos (S E Asia) Pte Ltd