Geotechnical Investigations Along the EACOP Pipeline (MLBV/LLHT) Substations

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) is a major infrastructure project designed to transport crude oil from the oil fields in Uganda to the port of Tanga in Tanzania, where it will be exported to international markets. The Uganda section of the pipeline is 296km cutting through 28 substations, 3 town councils and 171 villages in 10 districts of Hoima, Kikuube, Kakumiro, Kyankwanzi, Mubende, Gomba, Sembabule, Lwengo, Rakai, and kyotera.

The EACOP project required a detailed geotechnical investigation across multiple sites located approximately 200 km apart over a 1,000 km distance. The terrain along the proposed pipeline presented various challenges, including varying soil conditions, bedrock depths, and remote site access. The investigation called for accurate subsoil profiling to ensure the pipeline's long-term stability and safe construction, with the need for boreholes and rigorous environmental standards. Additionally, strict timelines and safety standards had to be met while working in remote areas that were difficult to access with heavy drilling equipment.

Our team deployed advanced geotechnical techniques tailored to the specific challenges of each site. With highly skilled personnel and state-of-the-art drilling rigs, we used rotary core drilling method for soil and rock recovery ensuring retrieval of sufficient core samples and accurate profile logging. We performed Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) with Shelby Tube (ST) sampling and conducted permeability test in the boreholes across various sites. Test pits of 1.5 meters depth were excavated and Thermal Conductivity Tests (TCT) was carried out. In addition, PANDA Tests and Electrical Resistivity Tests were conducted. All the obtained samples were meticulously logged and stored for laboratory testing. Despite the remote locations, we adhered to the highest safety standards, sustainability and utilized a well-coordinated logistics plan to minimize delays.