The Duna Aszfalt performs an unusual task in the Paks II project

As reported in our newspaper, since the end of September, the Duna Aszfalt has been excavating the entire soil at the future Block 5.The Hungarian infrastructure construction market leader started the excavation work on an unprecedented scale with five machine chains, first in daytime operation, then after a week it switched to full speed and now excavates 24 hours a day. This time, our newspaper provides photos and highlights of the work.

Another 2 million cubic metres of soil to be extracted

To get a sense of the scale of the investment, it is worth revisiting the figures for the previous sub-project. By excavating the foundation pit to groundwater level in the two new blocks, Duna Aszfalt produced 1.5 million cubic metres of soil, equivalent to the excavation of almost 27 kilometres of average structure motorway.

According to our newspaper, another 2 million cubic metres of soil will now be extracted in several phases. With the excavation now under way, the working pit under the blocks will reach a depth of 23 metres, the construction of which started in 2022.

Extraction is carried out with this machine capacity

The amount of excavation work, unparalleled in Hungary, requires capacities of a similar magnitude: the Hungarian company is operating five machine chains in daytime

• 5 demolition pliers with excavator,
• with 5 backhoe loaders,
• 19 four-axle trucks,
• with 1 iron cylinder,
• 1pc sprinkler with tractor
• and a range of other machines to meet your needs.

At night, another four machine chains are in operation. "In total, therefore, twice the above-mentioned fleet of machines is currently available to complete the work," they wrote. "The machines are equipped with the highest technical equipment and are managed by the most experienced specialists to achieve the required objectives."

Dewatering associated with land extraction is also a major challenge

In last year's article, we also reported that Duna Aszfalt had completed extraction to groundwater level well ahead of schedule. According to the summary provided to us, every effort is being made to complete extraction to design level as soon as possible.

It was also reported that in order to meet the commitment, nearly 60 people are involved in the planned excavation of land. An important additional task is the installation and operation of the dewatering technology associated with land extraction, with a further 15 people working in a very strict and regulated environment. "The task is unprecedented even for Duna Aszfalt Zrt., which traditionally works on large-scale projects," the summary said. "Serious resources have to be allocated to the work, with extreme health and safety requirements."

They pointed out that the experience gained in previous projects of the Paks II project was of great help to the company, during which it was able to get to know the specifics of the area and to take on board the extraordinary specifications and requirements, not least the special expectations of the Russian partner. "At the same time, it is also a major challenge because, although the site is in the same place, the work itself is characterised by very different parameters."