Immersion pontoon IVY passes final test and receives approval
The immersion pontoon IVY has passed its final tests and is now approved by the Danish Maritime Authority. Therefore, the contractor Femern Link Contractors (FLC) can begin preparing to immerse the first tunnel element into the dredged tunnel trench off Lolland’s coast this spring.
The special vessel IVY is comprised of two distinct units: IVY 1 & 2. Prior to the transportation and immersion of a 217-metre-long standard tunnel element, each end is securely attached to IVY 1 & 2, which provide buoyancy. For the handling of the 39-metre-long special elements, IVY 1 & 2 are joined to form a single vessel, facilitating the immersion process. Together, IVY 1 & 2 are equipped with 23 kilometres of steel wire spread over 66 winches, enabling them to submerge tunnel elements to depths of up to 40 metres with exceptional precision.
“IVY is a unique vessel developed exclusively for the construction of the Fehmarnbelt tunnel. Its task is complex, so a long sequence of tests had been necessary to ensure that it meets the high technical and safety requirements set by both us and the authorities. We have now approval for the vessel and are ready for immersion,” says Lasse Vester, Deputy Contract Director at Sund & Bælt, the owner of the 18-kilometre-long immersed tunnel between Denmark and Germany.
Tunnel trench is ready
In parallel with the numerous tests, FLC has prepared the first part of the tunnel trench. This includes laying an even gravel foundation to ensure the bottom of the trench is completely level.
In April, IVY 1 & 2 – with the tunnel element secured between them – will be brought to the jetty at Danish the work harbour. Here, ballast concrete will be added to the element to ensure it’s heavy enough to sink. IVY 1&2 will then transport the element to the trench and immerse it in a controlled and precise operation.
“IVY has now passed all tests, and we look forward to FLC beginning the immersion of the first tunnel element later this spring. It will be a challenging operation, which we have to repeat a further 88 times until all elements are in place,” says Lasse Vester.
The construction of the tunnel is delayed for at least two years. Sund & Bælt will update the Fehmarnbelt project's schedule once the first tunnel elements have been immersed.
About the Fehmarnbelt project
The Fehmarnbelt project is one of Europe’s largest infrastructure projects and comprises the construction of an 18-kilometre-long immersed tunnel between Denmark and Germany, along with landworks on both sides.
The tunnel will contain a two-lane motorway in each direction and two electrified railway tracks for highspeed trains. Travel time will be 10 minutes by car and 7 minutes by train.
The Fehmarnbelt tunnel will strengthen trade, mobility, and cooperation between Northern and Southern Europe. The project is user-financed and carried out with support from the European Commission.
About Sund & Bælt
Sund & Bælt creates lasting connections and stronger mobility. With expertise and experience from complex infrastructure projects, we develop and operate futureproof solutions that shorten distances, strengthen cohesion in Denmark, and bring us closer to Central Europe.
