Menard Asia applied Controlled Modulus Columns to support 5 turbine foundations at Truong Son Wind Power Plant, Laos—meeting strict design criteria in hard clay and weathered rock conditions.
Project Overview
The Truong Son Wind Power Plant is one of the largest onshore wind energy projects in Laos. With a planned total capacity of 262.25 MW, it includes the installation of 40 turbines with hub heights of 120 meters and unit capacities of 6.25 to 8.00 MW. As part of the development, the client required foundation treatment for five turbines located in areas with challenging subsurface conditions.
Ground Conditions
Site investigation showed that the turbine locations were underlain by hard clay mixed with highly weathered rock. The thickness of the clay varied significantly—between 6 and 40 meters. The mixed layers presented difficulties for standard foundation systems due to varying stiffness and the risk of differential settlement.
Ground Improvement Approach
Menard proposed a Controlled Modulus Column (CMC) system combined with a Load Transfer Platform (LTP) to meet the design requirements and ensure safe support of the turbine structures.
Execution Scope
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90 CMCs per turbine foundation
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Total: 450 rigid inclusion columns
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Length range: 6.8 to 12 meters from the working platform
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Pre-drilling carried out to navigate through weathered rock
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Rock drilling applied where needed to ensure continuous CMC depth
Design Requirements Achieved
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SLS (Serviceability Limit State) bearing capacity > 200 kPa
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Target subgrade reaction coefficient
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Required dynamic deformation modulus
Benefits
✔️ Met all geotechnical design criteria
✔️ Avoided use of deep piles in hard clay and rock mix
✔️ Reduced construction time and cost per turbine
✔️ Applied successfully under varied ground conditions
This project highlights Menard’s ability to engineer ground improvement solutions that support large-scale renewable energy goals in Southeast Asia.
Developing wind power in areas with hard soil or rock?
Let’s explore how CMC and other ground improvement techniques can help you meet structural and schedule demands—without relying on deep piling. Talk to our team at Menard Asia
Location: Central Laos
Client: Phu Xuan Construction and Trading Company Limited
Sector: Energy – Wind Power
Execution Period: January – April 2025
Foundation Treated: 5 Wind Turbines
CMC Installed: 450 Columns
