In the heart of Indonesia’s energy infrastructure, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we approach the construction of critical facilities. Ibadurrahman Adz Dzikro, a researcher from the Master’s Program in Civil Engineering at the Bandung Institute of Technology, has published a compelling analysis on the design of retaining walls for seawater intake structures in power plants. His work, published in the Civil Engineering Journal, delves into the complexities of maintaining stability in subterranean structures, a challenge that has significant implications for the energy sector.
The study focuses on the Java 9 & 10 Suralaya Power Plant in Cilegon, Banten, where the stability of retaining walls is paramount for the seawater intake system. These walls are not just structural elements; they are the unsung heroes that ensure the plant’s operational integrity. “The retaining wall construction is selected based on the depth of excavation, soil type, the height of the Groundwater Table (GWT), and the load being retained,” Dzikro explains. This meticulous selection process is crucial for preventing catastrophic failures that could disrupt power generation.
Dzikro’s research employs advanced methodologies, including the use of MIDAS GTS NX software for stability analysis. The software’s capabilities allow for precise modeling of soil data and site conditions, ensuring that the retaining walls are designed to withstand the lateral forces exerted by the soil and groundwater. “The design process involved soil data interpretation, site class determination, and stability analysis,” Dzikro notes, highlighting the rigorous approach taken to ensure the walls’ reliability.
One of the standout features of Dzikro’s study is the use of diaphragm walls and secant piles in the retaining wall design. These innovative techniques provide enhanced stability and resistance to lateral loads, making them ideal for the demanding conditions of a seawater intake system. Additionally, the use of soil anchors as lateral reinforcement, compliant with SNI 8460-2017 standards, further bolsters the walls’ structural integrity.
The study’s findings are not just academic; they have tangible commercial impacts for the energy sector. By demonstrating the effectiveness of these design methods, Dzikro’s research paves the way for more robust and reliable construction practices in power plant infrastructure. This could lead to reduced maintenance costs, increased operational efficiency, and enhanced safety for workers and the environment.
Moreover, the research’s use of the Mohr-Coulomb soil model and pseudostatic earthquake analysis provides a more conservative yet realistic approach to designing retaining walls. This method ensures that the structures can withstand not just routine stresses but also extreme conditions, such as earthquakes, which are a significant concern in Indonesia.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from Dzikro’s study will be invaluable. The use of advanced software like MIDAS GTS NX and innovative construction techniques could become the new standard for designing retaining walls in critical infrastructure projects. This shift could lead to more resilient and sustainable energy facilities, better equipped to handle the challenges of the future.
For professionals in the construction and energy sectors, Dzikro’s work, published in the Civil Engineering Journal, offers a roadmap for improving the design and construction of retaining walls. By adopting these advanced methods, companies can ensure the longevity and reliability of their infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more stable and efficient energy supply.
As we look to the future, the lessons from this study will undoubtedly shape the way we approach the design and construction of critical infrastructure. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit greatly from these advancements, ensuring that our power plants remain robust and reliable for generations to come.