Transgaz has completed the Danube sub-crossing, part of the Tuzla-Podisor Pipeline

Ion Sterian, Transgaz CEO, announced the completion of the Danube River Undercrossing Project, part of the infrastructure of the DN 1200/1000 mm natural gas pipeline Black Sea Coast – Podisor, a project that represents “a technological achievement of reference not only for Romania, but also for the whole of Europe”.     With a length of 1,813 meters and a maximum depth of the tunnel drilled of 67 meters under the Danube River bed, this undercrossing with entry from Ialomitei Island (UAT Borcea) Calarasi County and exit in UAT Rasova- Cochirleni locality – Constanta County, is one of the most complex works ever carried out on the continent.   This underpass sets a new benchmark in the execution of horizontal directional drilling due to the diameter, geological complexity and size of the equipment mobilized.   “During the execution, our teams faced unforeseen geological challenges, such as dolomitization processes, which required strategic adjustments in drilling and boring. These large-scale works demonstrate the technical capacity and expertise of our engineers to overcome extreme geological challenges and implement innovative solutions to strengthen the national energy infrastructure,” said Sterian, quoted by Financialintelligence.   The Transgaz official also mentioned that to ensure the success of this project, two 400-ton HDD drilling platforms were mobilized, an innovative solution rarely seen at this level of complexity. This approach allowed for the distribution of the force required for boring and pulling, as well as greater control over the entire drilling process. At the same time, the Pipe Pusher emergency strategy provided critical assistance in the event of excessive friction forces, thus guaranteeing the successful installation of the DN1000 mm (40 inch) pipeline.   “The successful execution of the Borcea branch and Danube River undercrossings marks a significant achievement in horizontal directional drilling technology. The combination of difficult soil conditions, custom-designed solutions and large-scale equipment mobilization makes these projects unique and landmark in Europe. These achievements significantly contribute to the development of the natural gas transmission network and to the consolidation of Romania’s position as a regional energy hub.   ”The success of these projects demonstrates Transgaz’s commitment to technological excellence and to making strategic investments essential for the energy security of Romania and Europe. I congratulate the team of specialists and the partners involved for the professionalism and dedication they have shown in implementing these landmark works. Transgaz will continue to invest in infrastructure projects aimed at ensuring sustainable development and meeting the challenges of the future in the energy sector.”   The “Black Sea Coast-Podisor” natural gas transmission pipeline, worth approximately 500 million euros, is a project included in the National Gas Transmission System (NTS) Development Plan for the next 10 years, a plan worth over 9.1 billion euros, approved by ANRE. The pipeline is included in the list of EU projects of common interest and was submitted for financing through the Modernization Fund, obtaining a financing of 85 million euros. The financing gap will be covered by a competitive financial mix.