Bauer Technologies has been appointed to provide specialist support to primary contractor GRAHAM for the Belfast Harbour D3 Berth Development project, a significant infrastructure project that will enhance port capacity and operational capability at one of the UK's key maritime hubs.

Commissioned by Belfast Harbour, the scheme involves the construction of a new combi wall quay structure, formed using over 100 driven tubular piles, ranging from 30 to 40m in length and 1829mm in diameter.

Working in close collaboration with GRAHAM, Bauer will deliver relief drilling operations to facilitate the installation of the tubular piles using a newly engineered reaming tool, designed specifically to carry out relief drilling at a slightly larger diameter than the driven piles.

This innovation is expected to significantly improve installation efficiency and reduce potential obstructions during piling operations, supporting a smoother and more reliable construction process.

The project will also include a later phase involving the installation of 24 dolphin piles, with works undertaken from a jack-up barge, further demonstrating the technical complexity and marine engineering expertise required across the scheme.