Award-Winning Karapiro Dam Discharge Lining Replacement Project
Nikau's groundbreaking work for Mercury Energy at the Karapiro Dam site has reshaped engineering standards, earning accolades for its innovative approach. The project involved the complex replacement of discharge linings within 17-meter-deep, 5.8-meter-wide shafts, presenting significant challenges such as dismantling steel discharge rings and mass concrete.
The confined space and rigorous requirements posed considerable obstacles, including managing dust and fume emissions during demolition and navigating restricted access areas. Leveraging client-supplied access, Nikau demonstrated exceptional engineering prowess by deploying a range of electric machinery, including robotic demolition units and specialized concrete cutting equipment. Our teams expertly navigated the depths of the shafts, employing a meticulous slurry control process and utilising an on-site gantry crane for the precise rigging and lifting of cut sections.
Addressing environmental and safety concerns was crucial. Nikau implemented advanced extraction ventilation systems to manage fume and dust emissions effectively. Additionally, due to the epoxy coating on the steel discharge rings, our workforce utilised Respiratory Protective Devices (RPD) during cutting and abrasive operations.
Nikau’s innovative techniques and dedication to precision and safety not only overcame the project's complexities but also established a new benchmark in intricate demolition work. This project exemplifies our commitment to excellence in engineering and demolition, setting a high standard for future endeavors.
