By rosebell
As Europe’s largest vertical shaft sinking machine (VSM), the machine named Verena after pioneering British mechanical engineer Verena Holmes, has been commissioned on a National Grid project in Essex by the Ferrovial BEMO JV.
Work on the Grain to Tilbury electricity upgrade project, that is a critical part of National Grid’s The Great Grid Upgrade, designed to future-proof the UK’s electricity transmission network, was commenced by this machine.
Considering that the existing 1960s Thames Cable Tunnel between Tilbury and Gravesend has reached the end of its useful life, this project will replace it.
In order to sinking the launching shaft for tunneling beneath the River Thames, the VSM 15000 with a 15m internal diameter is being used, whereas it is first due to dig the 48m-deep shaft in Tilbury, and then be transferred to Gravesend to construct the target shaft.
Also construction of the 2.2km-long high-voltage (400kV) cable tunnel will be up to a Herrenknecht mix shield TBM.
The operation method of VSM is remotely from the surface and removes the need for operatives to enter the shaft during construction. With the aim of preventing water inflow and ensuring safe, efficient progress through challenging geology, unlike traditional shaft construction methods, the VSM operates in a slurry environment, balancing slurry levels with groundwater. Ferrovial says this approach delivers enhanced safety, speed, and environmental performance, and sets a new benchmark for UK shaft construction.
According to Ferrovial BEMO JV project director Borja Trashorras: “Launching Europe’s largest diameter VSM at Tilbury was a milestone achievement for the team and for UK infrastructure.This technology allows us to deliver the Grain to Tilbury project with enhanced safety, efficiency, and environmental performance. We’re proud to be working in partnership with National Grid and Herrenknecht to bring this pioneering solution to life, helping to future-proof the electricity network for generations to come.”
National Grid project director Mark Farmer said: “The Grain to Tilbury project was helping to future-proof the UK’s electricity network.The launch of the vertical shaft sinking machine marks a major milestone for the project. Through collaboration and innovation, this technology is helping to deliver resilient infrastructure under the Thames, securing reliable electricity for the decades ahead.”
