Westlink Projects â€“ Geotechnical Challenges During the Execution Phase-Video

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The presentation described ground-engineering work on Gothenburg’s West Link, a major rail-tunnel project involving five sections beneath the city. Construction faced complex geology, including up to 35 metres of sensitive quick clay over moraine and strong rock, alongside strict railway-safety requirements and difficult winter conditions.<br /><br />Three main techniques were used: dry deep soil mixing (DDSM), rock grouting and jet grouting. More than one million linear metres of DDSM were installed, achieving the target shear strength. Testing, trial fields and monitoring helped verify performance. Jet grouting supported excavations, controlled water ingress and strengthened soil, while adaptations such as pre-cutting and filter presses addressed site-specific conditions and backflow.<br /><br />The project also encountered obstacles, schedule delays and logistical difficulties, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The speaker emphasized close cooperation among international teams, clients and contractors; adapting equipment and methods to local conditions; and checking field observations against design assumptions. Success required balancing safety, quality, cost and sustainability.

Keywords

West Link Gothenburg

ground engineering

deep soil mixing

jet grouting

quick clay