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 and the floating dock, the installation of a new firefighting system and new capstans, as well as 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 dry dock being 90 years old 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 has completed the third and final phase of the R30-million refurbishment of the Prince Edward graving dry dock.
Following delays, owing to heavy rains and a late start on the comprehensive repair programme, the structure, which was handed over to TNPA in December 2015, has been commissioned.
The outer caisson was put into its operational position on March 4 and connected to the driving system on March 8, after which two tugs and a barge were docked for repair.
“Work involved structural repairs to the first of two steel lock gates that separate the dock into two compartments and seal off water from the harbour to enable repairs and maintenance work to be carried out on ships,” Durban port manager Moshe Motlohi has said.
The outer caisson repair project marked the first of 11 large-scale projects under Operation Phakisa at the dry dock to get the facility into peak condition by 2019.
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.