First tunnel element prepared for immersion

Preparation of the first element for the Fehmarnbelt tunnel is well under way. The element, which is the first of a total of 89, has just been filled with 4,500 tonnes of ballast concrete. This increases the weight from 73,500 tonnes and enables the element to later sink in a controlled manner down onto the seabed.

The work inside the element has been carried out via a temporary access structure consisting of five shafts, which are bolted onto the watertight steel bulkheads that keep the water out. At one end there is a materials lift, a concrete shaft and a man‑access shaft, which also functions as ventilation. At the other end there is a ventilation shaft and an emergency shaft for personnel.

When the filling has been finally completed, most of the equipment is removed, the doors in the steel bulkheads are closed, and the element is made ready for tow‑out.

Watch how the filling of ballast concrete has taken place in the video below