Preparation

A preliminary phase was carried out in collaboration with Verhaert from January 2026 to September 2026. What took place during that preliminary phase?

• Research was conducted into the reliability of the pipe auger, with particular attention paid to hydraulic instability during overfilling and full submersion.
• Technical issues from previous installations (including those in Deurne and Veurne) were objectively analysed.
• Knowledge was built up through desk research, literature reviews and workshops with hydraulic and electromechanical experts.
• Various stakeholders were involved, including the Department of Infrastructure and the Environment (MOW), the Hydraulic Engineering Laboratory, the Province of West Flanders, Westkustpolder and Verhaert.
• The research needs were then tested against the market via an international market consultation.
• A dialogue was initiated with European screw manufacturers, contractors/integrators and CFD centres of expertise.

The preliminary phase provided greater insight into the causes of the technical phenomena and possible solutions.
On this basis, various research and development (R&D) scenarios were assessed for feasibility prior to the tender process.

The final report containing the insights gained is now publicly available.