Antarctica – Palmer Station Pier

Project Overview

PPM is proud to have played a key role in the construction of the Antarctica Pier at Palmer Station, a vital infrastructure project for the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP). This ambitious project required innovative engineering and construction techniques to support year-round operations at one of the most remote and environmentally sensitive locations on Earth.

The Antarctica Pier at Palmer Station involved the design and construction of a new pier to facilitate the safe and efficient unloading of cargo, scientific equipment, and personnel. The pier is integral to supporting ongoing research and logistical operations on the Antarctic Peninsula.

The completed Antarctica Pier at Palmer Station is not just a critical piece of infrastructure—it is a symbol of Pacific Pile & Marine’s commitment to overcoming adversity and supporting scientific research in some of the world’s most challenging environments. The pier will serve as a crucial hub for future expeditions and research, supporting ongoing scientific efforts to better understand global climate change, marine ecosystems, and polar environments.

Project Highlights

  • Specialized marine logistics operations, including the safe transport and installation of materials in one of the harshest environments on the plane with temperatures often dropping below -20°F, and high winds that frequently exceeded 60 mph.
  • With strict regulations governing all projects in Antarctica, PPM prioritized sustainability, incorporating best practices to minimize the environmental footprint and preserve the pristine ecosystem.
  • Material and equipment was mobilized over 8,700 nautical miles (nm) including a 4-day passage accross the Drake Passage, becoming the first barge to successfully make the crossing.
  • The construction season was limited due to ice and weather; construction could not begin until the sea ice sufficiently vacated and had to be completed prior to ice returning.
  • Major material included 36-, 32-, and 24-in steel pipe piling and H-piling; precast concrete caps up to 70-tons and panels; fender panels, bollard, and bull rail; and misc. structural steel.
  • Site consists of exposed bedrock requiring piling to be drilled and socketed with 20-30-ft of embedment.
  • Crew used 300-ton Manitowoc 2250 crawler cranes and a 400×100 barge.

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