By rosebell
Due to use of artificial ground freezing (AGF) on Melbourne’s Suburban Rail Loop East project, Acciona has been internationally recognised for pioneering the world’s first large-scale.
The date of granting this accolade was September by by the International Symposium on Ground Freezing (ISGF).
Acciona says the recognition highlights its leadership in applying AGF early in the design process to safely construct tunnel cross-passages, marking a global first in both scale and methodology.
Beside acknowledging the significance of the achievement, site engineer Yun Lan Tsai said: “This recognition from ISGF reflects the ingenuity and technical excellence of our team. By integrating AGF into the design phase, we are setting new standards for safety, sustainability and constructability in tunnel infrastructure.”
In order to temporarily freezing and stabilising the surrounding groundwater and soil, AGF involves circulating chilled brine through pipes installed inside the tunnels.
The technique is due to be used in 26 of the 54 cross-passages along the Suburban Rail Loop East alignment.
Considering that AGF decreases groundwater disruption and minimises environmental impact, by freezing the ground instead of using traditional dewatering or chemical stabilisation methods, the ISGF commended the project for balancing engineering efficiency with environmental responsibility.
