The Port of Lowestoft, which is owned and operated by Associated British Ports (ABP), is undergoing extensive development as part of ABP's Lowestoft Eastern Energy Facility (LEEF) to support the offshore energy industry. Key aspects of the project included the construction of three new berths and a reclamation area, implemented in two phases.
The piling work, on the project was carried out by McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd, using an ABI TM20 and an ABI TM22 Mobilram, each equipped with MRZV30VV vibrators and the versatile MZK1200 combi-clamp. These powerful rigs ensured precision and safe installation of Ø762mm and Ø914mm steel tubular anchor piles, vital for the development’s structural integrity.
In phase one, an ABI TM20 Mobilram was used to install 92 anchor piles, each 7.6 metres long, at two of the new berths. Thanks to the rig's rapid docking system, the piles were driven efficiently, and the subsequent use of Ø600mm augers allowed for the installation of tie rods, with the piles then sealed in concrete.
For phase two, an ABI TM22 Mobilram took the lead, handling piles up to 15.8 metres long. The rig’s ability to perform subterranean piling, placing piles below platform level, showcased its adaptability to the challenging marine environment.
ABI is proud to have supported this critical development for the offshore energy sector – read the full case study on the Case Studies page of our website
