Part 1 of this article was featured in Port Technology International 45.
Initial engineering and construction of Dahej LNG terminal
After the contract was first awarded in December 2000, physical model studies were carried out by M/s HR Wallingford, UK, and the physical model tests were carried out in August and September 2001.
The tranquil conditions sheltered by the breakwater were verified in the physical model and were found to be acceptable. With minor modifications, the stability of the breakwater was also established in the physical model. Construction commenced, and around ten per cent of the total volume of stone required for the breakwater was dumped at the breakwater site.
The construction of the jetty commenced, with a 2.4 km long approach trestle and unloading platform fitted with unloading arms. Marine facilities include four breasting and five mooring dolphins, for berthing tankers, and other equipment required for safe and reliable berthing.
The jetty is built on 536 steel piles with an average depth 50m. The total weight of steel used was about 14,500 tons, and approximately 30,000 tons of concrete. Four passing bays were also provided on the approach trestle, which allow for the passing of vehicles coming from opposite sides.
Six-meter deep fenders for the berths were designed – large enough to cope with the high tidal variation (10m), and ensure flat body contact for various positions of the ship, whether it is fully loaded at low water or ballasted at high water.
