Levvel – a consortium comprising Van Oord, BAM, and Rebel – is making great progress on the ‘New Afsluitdijk’ in the Neterlands.
According to the latest update from Van Oord, works on the reinforcement of the Afsluitdijk is progressing further each day.
The work on the new revetment has been divided into different phases taking place simultaneously. Quattroblocks are installed by the innovative crane Ballerina on the upper part of the slope and Levvel-blocks are placed on the toe structure by crane vessel Titaan.
These ‘Levvel blocks’ are innovative concrete elements that have been developed specially for the Afsluitdijk project. Each block weighs about 6,500 kg, is extremely strong, has a wave retardant effect, and is easy to install. Up to now some 40,000 Levvel-blocs have been installed.
Van Oord also added that several dry earth moving activities are carried out to ensure the slopes are ready for the final protective layer. Complex operations like this require detailed planning and craftsmanship.
The Afsluitdijk is a necessary construction, a protective barrier against the sea and a road link between the provinces of Friesland and Noord-Holland. Work on the project is expected to be completed until the end of 2022.
After the work has been completed, Levvel will remain responsible for maintenance for a period of 25 years.