Ground anchor installation for transmission towers in Newfoundland

keller rig in action in the snow

The project

Emera hired Rokstad Power to erect a transmission line from Stephenville to Cape Ray, Newfoundland to complete the power circuit from Labrador to Nova Scotia. The locations of the transmission towers required four grouted anchors at each one.

The challenge

Because of poor ground conditions, installing the anchors was a challenge, as was access to each tower location. In some cases the crew could not move off the working platform, comprising crane mats, due to areas of bog. With extremely cold weather and high winds, the crew also faced icy trails and frozen equipment daily.

The solution

Keller worked alongside two other companies to expedite the drilling process and complete it safely.

Multiple trails were provided along the Trans-Canada Highway to ensure safe access to each proposed tower location. Keller acquired multiple trailers and a transport truck to move equipment from trail to trail.

Each crew had a third flat-deck sled which held their equipment to efficiently move crews to new locations about once every two days. A water truck that was used throughout the project to deliver clean water. Each excavator was outfitted with small steel tabs welded on all the tracks to provide extra grip on the ice.

Project facts

Owner(s)

Emera

Keller business unit(s)

Keller North America

Main contractor(s)

Rokstad Power