Project of The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
- 2023-12-27 10:25:48
- 1232
The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) tour officially commenced its trial operation on 15 December 2023. The 'Debut Tour' departs from the Zhuhai Highway Border Transportation Hub of the HZMB, embarking a 140-minute tour via a dedicated shuttle bus. In addition to enjoying the scenic views of the HZMB during the bus ride, tourists can also visit the Blue Dolphin Island.
The HZMB is recognized as the world's longest cross-sea bridge, holding distinctions for the greatest overall span, the length of the steel-structure built bridge and the extent of its multiple submersed tunnel section cross ocean. Beyond its monumental scale, the HZMB represents the epitome of technical complexity and construction challenges in the history of infrastructure projects. The construction of the HZMB has set a number of world records, and its journey from inception to official opening spanned 15 years, reflecting the collective wisdom and diligent efforts of tens of thousands of constructors.
Chu Kong Petroleum and Natural Gas Steel Pipe Holdings Limited is honored to have played a role in and witnessed the inception of this monumental project. Between 2012 to 2016, we actively participated in various construction phases of the HZMB project. We successfully take part in the projects led by Guangdong Changda Highway Engineering Group, Guangdong Basic Engineering Group (Zhuhai) and Hong Kong Highways Department. A total of 22,045 tons of submerged-arc welding helix (SAWH) pipes were supplied as piling pipes to enhance the stability and load-bearing capacity of the bridge. The SAWH pipes have diameters ranging from 1,219mm to 2,000mm and wall thicknesses ranging from 18mm to 25mm. Notably, the production of pipes with a 25mm wall thickness presented a significant challenge to industry standards at that time, pushing the boundaries of what was achievable.
The piles utilized steel pipes with a length ranging from 70m to 75m and a diameter of approximately 2 meters. Q345B low-alloy structural steel were employed in the project, a material characterized by its large wall thickness and high-quality composition at that time. To meet the stringent specifications and ensure the performance level of the weld seam, which is the world's most stable welding equipment, and ultrasonic inline inspection equipment were introduced by PCK.
To meet the demands of producing and transporting large steel pipes for marine and offshore application, the company has made significant adjustments to the carrying capacity and layout of the factory’s production line. A new factory has been strategically constructed close to the shoreline, seamlessly integrated with the loading dock. This allows for immediate loading and shipping of the products as soon as the steel pipes roll off the production line, ensuring a swift and convenient process. Furthermore, the company has pioneered the development of a core technological system focused on forming, welding, and non-destructive testing. This system effectively addresses the challenging task of welding butt joints in ultra-long spiral steel pipes, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the production process.
Since its involvement in the HZMB project, Chu Kong Petroleum and Natural Gas Steel Pipe Holdings Limited has rapidly risen in the field of offshore engineering equipment. The company now offers a comprehensive suite of offshore ancillary products, including tubes for deep-water oil and gas transmission, offshore platform applications, offshore wind turbines, and offshore infrastructure projects. This achievement positions the company as a noteworthy and prominent player in the market.