Desalination Plant Intake and Outfall Pipeline

Desalination Plant Intake and Outfall Pipeline
Client:

Utico FZC

Consultant:

Union Dredgers and Marine Contracting

Project Year:

2020

Scope of the Project

Desalination Plant Intake and Outfall Pipeline

UDMC completed the commissioning of a critical water infrastructure project involving the installation of a 2.2km subsea intake pipeline and a 0.7km subsea outfall pipeline. The project, which required careful planning, extensive fabrication, and precise construction, was delivered successfully with UDMC executing a range of complex tasks from supply and fabrication to final installation and commissioning.

Project Scope and Execution

  1. Supply of Essential Materials: UDMC was responsible for supplying various key components, including GRP backing rings, duplex bolts, concrete ballast blocks, chlorination pipes, and airburst pipes.
  2. Fabrication of Outfall Diffuser: A critical element of the outfall pipeline, the OD1516mm outfall diffuser, was supplied and fabricated by UDMC. This diffuser was designed to ensure the efficient and environmentally responsible dispersal of water.
  3. Construction of Intake Towers: UDMC’s scope of work also included the construction of two 10m x 6.6m intake towers, which were equipped with the necessary screens. These towers are designed to facilitate the intake of water while preventing the entry of debris, contributing to the protection of the system’s operational efficiency.
  4. Manhole Supply: UDMC provided the required manholes for the project. These manholes are essential for maintenance and inspection purposes, ensuring easy access to the pipeline system for ongoing monitoring.
  5. Butt Fusion Welding of HDPE Pipelines: A significant part of the project involved the butt fusion welding of OD2168mm and OD1516mm HDPE pipelines, including the required fittings. This step required precision welding to ensure the pipes’ joints were secure and leak-proof, a critical factor in the subsea installation.
  6. Offshore Pipeline Trench Dredging: The offshore section of the pipeline required trench dredging to the specified levels. UDMC carried out this operation with attention to detail to ensure the pipeline could be properly installed and maintained within the dredged trench.
  7. Onshore and Intertidal Zone Excavation: UDMC also handled the excavation of the onshore and intertidal zones, which included necessary dewatering and sheet piling to ensure the trench remained dry and stable during the installation process. This work was critical for ensuring the safe placement of the pipeline in these challenging environments.
  8. Installation of Pipelines: Once the trenching was completed, UDMC undertook the installation of both the onshore and offshore pipelines. The pipelines were carefully lowered into the prepared trenches, with close coordination between offshore and onshore teams to ensure precise placement.
  9. Installation of Intake Towers, Diffuser System, and Manholes: Following pipeline installation, UDMC installed the intake towers, diffuser system, and manholes, ensuring the entire infrastructure was in place for smooth and efficient operation. These installations were key to the functionality of the overall water intake and discharge system.
  10. Backfilling of Trench: After the installation of the pipelines and associated infrastructure, the trench was backfilled both onshore and offshore. This backfilling was crucial for stabilizing the pipeline and protecting it from external environmental factors.
  11. Pipeline Testing and Commissioning: The final phase of the project involved thorough testing and commissioning of the pipeline system. UDMC conducted various tests to ensure the integrity and operational efficiency of the pipeline, confirming it met all required specifications and was ready for use.

Conclusion

The successful commissioning of the 2.2km subsea intake pipeline and 0.7km outfall pipeline marks a significant achievement for UDMC. Through meticulous planning, expert fabrication, and careful execution, the project was delivered on time and to the highest quality standards. From material supply and fabrication to installation and testing, UDMC ensured that each phase was completed with precision, contributing to the successful operation of this vital water infrastructure system. This project stands as a testament to UDMC’s ability to manage and execute complex offshore and onshore pipeline projects effectively.

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