A geotechnical study, involving a thorough analysis of the soil, has been conducted to ensure the stability and longevity of the electrical transmission infrastructure, specifically the pylons of the new 400 kV (Extra High Voltage - EHV) line spanning 40 km between Mbebe and Omog. This line is dedicated to evacuating the energy produced by the future Kikot-Mbebe hydroelectric development.
Pylons, essentially steel towers supporting electrical cables, must be firmly anchored in the ground. To achieve this, a precise understanding of the soil's characteristics is essential for the optimal sizing of foundations to prevent any risk of subsidence or movement that could compromise the infrastructure.
To carry out this study, a series of tests and boreholes were implemented: penetrometer tests evaluated the soil's resistance; boreholes were drilled for direct observation of the different soil layers; and pressuremeter tests were conducted to determine the soil's compressibility and its capacity to support loads.
This phase of field investigations, which lasted 6 weeks, is now complete. Teams are currently in the laboratory phase to analyze the collected samples and interpret the data. At the end of this geotechnical campaign, a precise numerical model of the soil will be developed. This model will allow for the optimal sizing of the pylon foundations and the definition of any necessary reinforcement measures, with the aim of creating a durable and environmentally friendly structure along the identified corridor for this future 400 kV line.
