Project Overview

Teraband Smart Solution Sdn Bhd has successfully completed a highly challenging Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) project at Jambatan Ayer Itam, Penang. The project involved crossing a river with a total HDD length of 150 meters and a maximum depth of 21 meters, demonstrating Teraband’s unmatched technical capabilities and precision engineering in addressing complex infrastructure requirements.

Advanced Methodology and Equipment

The project utilized advanced HDD machinery (OS35T) to navigate the challenging geological conditions while ensuring minimal environmental disruption. To achieve precise tracking and alignment during the drilling process, Teraband integrated cutting-edge technologies, including the HDD Locator 7T and Locator GL750, which provided real-time monitoring and enhanced accuracy throughout the operation. These tools allowed the team to overcome obstacles posed by varying soil layers and maintain borehole stability under high hydrostatic pressure.

Additionally, Teraband installed a combination of 200mm x 12 numbers + 110mm x 6 (4 circuits) PN10 HDPE red pipe in multi-circuit configurations. This setup was specifically designed to cater to the unique demands of the 132kV power cable installation. Furthermore, our use of advanced mandrel tests and gyroscope mapping tests ensured precise alignment and exceptional durability, demonstrating our capability to manage complex and demanding projects effectively.

The Challenges 

This project involves significant challenges due to the intricate nature of constructing the bridge and the complexities of the river environment. The geological and soil conditions are particularly demanding, as the riverbed comprises a substantial amount of sand, which increases the risk of instability and sinking during foundation and concrete work. These conditions also critically impact the success of Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operations, as sandy substrates can lead to borehole collapse, fluid loss, and difficulty in maintaining bore stability. Furthermore, the high hydrostatic pressure under the river adds to the challenge, requiring precise pressure management to prevent borehole collapse and drilling fluid leakage. Additionally, maintaining consistent piloting signals in this environment presents another layer of difficulty. The shifting sands can disrupt signal accuracy, complicating the navigation of the drill and potentially leading to deviations in the bore path.  

Overcoming Challenges

Despite the numerous challenges associated with HDD for cross-river projects, our engineering team’s meticulous planning and execution were key to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring the project’s success. To manage the challenges of geological and soil conditions, we utilized advanced equipment, such as specialized drill heads and reamers, to stabilize the borehole and effectively navigate the riverbed. Our team also employed innovative solutions, including mandrel testing and gyroscope mapping, to maintain precise alignment and ensure bore durability throughout the process. In tackling high hydrostatic pressure, we implemented pressure control techniques to prevent fluid loss and borehole collapse. By combining technical expertise with cutting-edge technology and proactive problem-solving, our team successfully overcame these hurdles, delivering a stable and efficient cross-river project that adhered to both engineering standards and environmental protection requirements.

Industry Leadership

The successful execution of the Jambatan Ayer Itam project underscores Teraband’s expertise and reliability in delivering technically demanding projects that many others would find difficult to execute. It stands as a testament to their ability to combine advanced technology, skilled personnel, and a commitment to sustainability to meet Malaysia’s growing infrastructure needs.