Purpose
With the construction of the locks back in 1914, supply lines were routed underneath the lock facility using a pipeline („Düker“ or siphon). These lines are now overcrowded and in urgent need of renovation. Additionally, safety regulations prevent refurbishment of the old installations.
Due to the construction of the 5th lock chamber, the entire energy supply system of the Brunsbüttel lock facility must be restructured. A new „Central Siphon Replacement Structure“ was therefore required to accommodate all necessary supply lines.
Construction Details
- Shafts were built using diaphragm wall construction, tailored to the geotechnical and structural requirements. They were expanded into permanent, watertight structures.
- Approximately 15.500 m³ of excavation material was removed, and around 4.500 m³ of concrete was installed.
- The siphon pipeline was constructed using the AVND 2000 tunnel boring machine from Herrenknecht.
- The tunnel drive began at the launch shaft on the south side, passed under both the small and large locks at a depth of around 35 meters, and ended at the target shaft on the north side, covering a total length of about 480 meters.
- Along the route on the lock island, three intermediate shafts were built and passed through during tunneling.