Name and Location
Prince Edward graving dry dock caisson repair project, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Client
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA).

Project Description
The project involves the repair of the outer caisson of the Prince Edward graving dry dock.

The project forms part of TNPA’s structured programme for the dry dock, which will include a concrete refurbishment programme, the replacement of crane rails and two aged electrical overhead cranes, as well as the refurbishment of the inner caisson.

Also included in this programme is the acquisition of new Jib cranes, the upgrade of the mechanical pumphouse, the replacement of Workshop 24 equipment, the installation of a new firefighting system, the installation of new capstans, the replacement of the floating dock and the procurement of six compressors.

This is the third and final phase of a comprehensive repair programme on the structure, which was deemed unsafe and in need of repair, owing to the 90-year-old dry dock and a general need for maintenance.

Value
R30-million.

Duration
The repair project is expected to run from July to November, with the nonoperational period flow from August to September.

Latest Developments
TNPA appointed Durban-based engineering firm Channel Construction in July as the successful bidder for the project after a competitive tender process in which the company satisfied all technical, broad-based black economic-empowerment and price evaluation criteria.

Channel Construction will work closely with managing contractor Sebata Group, which is overseeing the project, with technical expertise and quality assurance provided by a team including KwaZulu-Natal’s only naval architecture firm, Naval Africa.

Work will include demolition and waste disposal, structural repair, welding, the modification and replacement of structural members and plates, design and fabrication certification, commissioning and final handover.

Key Contracts and Suppliers
Channel Construction (repair contract), Sebata Group (managing contractor) and Naval Africa (quality assurance and technical expertise).

On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
TNPA – Port of Durban corporate affairs manager Ayanda Mantshongo, tel +27 31 361 8527 or
email ayanda.mantshongo@transnet.net.