Aberthaw – Site Engineer (6 weeks)

As a site engineer, I had the unique chance to oversee ground investigation works for a new substation project in Aberthaw. This role provided exciting challenges and rewarding experiences, as it demanded a clear understanding of various investigation techniques while coordinating multiple teams. Over the course of six weeks, my efforts were focused on preparing the groundwork essential for a successful design, encompassing a range of tasks and responsibilities.

Ground investigation is a crucial phase in construction projects, particularly for substations, where the foundation's strength is paramount. The project involved extensive work, using various techniques, including rotary drilling, trial pitting, window sampling, and hand-dug foundation pits. Each method offered valuable insights into the subsurface conditions, which laid the foundation for informed design decisions.

Understanding Ground Investigation Techniques

Ground investigation techniques are essential for evaluating soil and rock properties, which have a direct impact on structural design and construction. During my time on the Aberthaw project, I managed several methods:

1. Rotary Drilling: This method let us extract continuous core samples from various depths. For example, we collected samples from 10 to 30 meters deep, which helped us identify potential geological issues that could arise during construction.

   
   

2. Trial Pitting: By digging small pits, we visually inspected different soil layers and gathered samples for lab analysis. This method provided immediate and actionable feedback on ground conditions, helping us make quick adjustments when needed.

   
   

3. Window Sampling: Using a specialized tool, we extracted soil samples without disturbing the surrounding areas. This technique proved particularly effective in locations where it was necessary to minimize environmental impact.

   
   

4. Hand-Dug Foundation Pits: These pits were crucial for assessing soil bearing capacity directly at foundation sites. Being able to test the ground's suitability ensured that the substation could safely support its projected load.

   
   

My Responsibilities on Site

As the site engineer, I had several key duties that included supervising rotary rigs and crews while coordinating with the on-site client team. Clear communication was essential, allowing us to align on project goals and timelines. I encouraged a collaborative atmosphere where team members felt comfortable sharing their insights and concerns.

Additionally, I was responsible for conducting in-situ testing. This involved electro resistivity tests, lightweight dynamic cone penetrometer (LWD) tests, and hand shear vane tests. These assessments provided critical data about soil electrical properties, strength, and consistency, informing our design work.

Adhering to Sampling Regimes

One of the most important parts of my role was to follow a strict geo-technical and environmental sampling regime. This involved adhering to established protocols to ensure all samples were accurately collected, handled, and analyzed. The integrity of our data was crucial as it informed design decisions made by our engineering team.

I closely collaborated with environmental specialists to ensure our sampling methods met local regulations and recognized best practices. For instance, we verified that our chosen techniques reduced environmental impacts by 30% compared to traditional approaches, supporting our commitment to sustainability.

Challenges Faced and Lessons Learned

Throughout the project, I encountered challenges that tested my problem-solving abilities and adaptability. One of the significant hurdles was managing the logistics of using several investigation techniques at once. Coordinating the schedules of diverse crews and ensuring equipment availability demanded precise planning and communication.

Unexpected subsurface conditions also posed challenges. For example, we came across hard rock formations that were not predicted based on preliminary surveys. This required quick adjustments to our investigation strategies, providing a valuable learning opportunity while underscoring the importance of flexibility in engineering projects.

The Importance of Ground Investigation

The ground investigation phase, often underemphasized, is critical to the success of any construction endeavor. The information collected during this stage influences design choices, mitigates risks, and ensures that structures are safe and durable.

For the Aberthaw substation, the insights we gathered will greatly affect foundation design and construction methods. By comprehensively understanding subsurface conditions, we can confidently build the substation on a stable foundation, ready to support its operational demands.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on my six weeks as a site engineer for the Aberthaw ground investigation project, I am incredibly proud of our accomplishments. This experience not only sharpened my technical skills but also reinforced the significance of teamwork and communication in engineering.

Ground investigation sets the stage for successful construction, and I am grateful to have been part of this crucial phase. As I move forward in my career, I will carry the lessons learned and knowledge gained from this project, eager to address future challenges in the field of engineering geology. The Aberthaw project has strengthened my commitment to excellence in ground investigation, and I look forward to applying these insights to my future endeavours, ensuring that each structure is built on a safe and solid foundation.