Port Botany Container Terminal Expansion

Project Overview

The Port Botany Container Terminal Expansion was a major project in Sydney, Australia, involving the reclamation of 63Ha using 8 million m³ of dredged sand. The project included the construction of a new container terminal, additional berth length, and public facilities.

Aerial view of a tractor plowing a large field with a patterned design, reminiscent of the organized layout at Port Botany's Container Terminal. The field is divided into rectangular sections, and the tractor near the center creates parallel lines that suggest expansive precision across the landscape.

Landpac's Solution

Landpac’s High Energy Impact Compaction (HEIC) was deployed to enhance the soil’s bearing characteristics in the top 2.0m of the soil profile, where previous Vibro compaction methods had shown limitations.

Challenges

The expansion faced geotechnical challenges due to the soil conditions of the reclaimed area, comprising fine to medium-grained marine sands with varying organic and clay content. Achieving the required soil compaction and stability was crucial for the infrastructure’s durability, including high counterfort walls and terminal areas.

Application of HEIC

Soil Compaction: HEIC was used to compact the dredged sands to meet the specified density and cone resistance requirements.

Infrastructure Support: The compaction ensured stable foundations for the new terminal, berths, and public facilities.

At a sandy construction site near the expanding Port Botany, a yellow Caterpillar track-type tractor with a roller attachment diligently works. In the background, against the blue sky scattered with white clouds, a red airplane is gracefully approaching for landing.

Benefits

Improved Soil Stability: The HEIC technique effectively increased the soil’s bearing capacity, essential for supporting heavy structures and operational loads.

Consistent Compaction Results: Monitoring and verification through Landpac’s systems confirmed uniform compaction and adherence to specifications.

Monitoring & Verification

Regular monitoring with Landpac’s soil response and continuous induced settlement systems, along with Density and CPT testing, verified the effectiveness of HEIC.

Landpac’s innovative HEIC approach was instrumental in ensuring the Port Botany expansion met its engineering and operational goals, showcasing the effectiveness of HEIC in large-scale maritime infrastructure projects.

Client: Sydney Ports

Principal Contractor: Baulderstone-Jan de Nul JV

Ground Improvement Contractor: Landpac

Latest news​

A green tractor with a yellow attachment is parked on a large, dusty field under a clear blue sky, ready for proof rolling. Trees and a few buildings are visible in the distant background.

Understanding High Energy Impact Compaction (HEIC)

High Energy Impact Compaction (HEIC) revolutionizes ground improvement with its ability to achieve superior soil density and stability. Unlike traditional methods, HEIC uses advanced rollers and compaction technology to penetrate deeper soil layers, addressing heterogeneities and enhancing load-bearing capacity. Ideal for mining, dredging, and large-scale earthworks, HEIC reduces project timelines, lowers costs, and promotes sustainability. Discover how Landpac’s innovative solutions deliver efficient and environmentally responsible results for heavy-duty projects.

Read More

Planning for your next project?