Virgin Hyperloop Development, Propulsion Open Air Track, and Base Site, NV
Image credit: © Virgin Hyperloop One
Ninyo & Moore, a SOCOTEC Company, provided comprehensive geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, and special inspection services for the Hyperloop Development Loop (DevLoop), Propulsion Open Air Track (POAT), and Base Site projects at Apex Industrial Park, supporting the development of a next-generation high-speed transportation system.
Key Information
Project Name: Hyperloop Development, Propulsion Open Air Track (POAT), and Base Site
Client: Virgin Hyperloop One
Location: North Las Vegas, Nevada
Services Provided: Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Materials Testing, Special Inspections, Geotechnical Observation
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The Challenge
Supporting a Pioneering High-Speed Transportation System
The Hyperloop Development Loop (DevLoop) introduced complex challenges driven by the need to construct large-scale, experimental infrastructure for a transportation system unlike any previously built. Hyperloop technology is designed to transport pressurized capsules on an air cushion using linear induction motors and air compressors, with projected travel speeds of up to 760 mph.
Delivering this system required precise geotechnical design and construction oversight to accommodate extreme performance demands and significant structural loads. Key considerations included:
A 1,800-linear-foot elevated, 12-foot-diameter DevLoop tube supported on columns founded on drilled shafts, 3.5-mile access road and a 10-foot high, 20-foot wide at the top ramp embankment to aid in loading the DevLoop pod into the tube
A 600-linear-foot Propulsion Open Air Track (POAT) consisting of structural concrete slabs embedded in ballast material supported on an engineered embankment up to 4 feet above existing grade for initial testing
An additional 4,400 linear feet of POAT supported on an engineered embankment, up to 6 feet above existing grade and 15 feet wide at the top
Development of multiple on-site buildings totaling approximately 100,000 square feet
Construction of an NV Energy substation, along with associated structures and equipment supported by conventional foundations, deep foundations, and concrete pads, flatwork, parking, and access roads
The challenge was to ensure that foundations, slabs, and embankments could safely support precision-aligned infrastructure subjected to tight tolerances, while accommodating variable subsurface conditions and phased construction activities.
The Solution
Integrated Geotechnical Engineering and Construction Oversight
Ninyo & Moore, a SOCOTEC Company, delivered a coordinated program of geotechnical evaluation, observation, and testing to support safe and reliable construction across all project components.
Geotechnical Engineering Services:
Engineering recommendations for drilled shaft foundations, embankments, and structural slabs
Support for foundation systems designed to maintain strict alignment requirements
Construction Observation, Testing, and Inspection:
Continuous geotechnical observation during construction activities including drilled shaft excavations
Construction materials testing and special inspection for concrete, earthwork, and structural elements
Verification of compliance with project specifications and design intent
Infrastructure and Site Development Support:
Oversight of foundations supporting elevated Hyperloop tubes and POAT structures
Monitoring of embankment construction and compaction for track-supported slabs
Inspection of site improvements, access roads, parking areas, and utility infrastructure
This integrated approach ensured that innovative transportation infrastructure was supported by reliable geotechnical performance and quality-controlled construction.
Ninyo & Moore, a SOCOTEC Company, delivered a coordinated program of geotechnical evaluation, observation, and testing to support safe and reliable construction across all project components.
Geotechnical Engineering Services:
Engineering recommendations for drilled shaft foundations, embankments, and structural slabs
Support for foundation systems designed to maintain strict alignment requirements
Construction Observation, Testing, and Inspection:
Continuous geotechnical observation during construction activities including drilled shaft excavations
Construction materials testing and special inspection for concrete, earthwork, and structural elements
Verification of compliance with project specifications and design intent
Infrastructure and Site Development Support:
Oversight of foundations supporting elevated Hyperloop tubes and POAT structures
Monitoring of embankment construction and compaction for track-supported slabs
Inspection of site improvements, access roads, parking areas, and utility infrastructure
This integrated approach ensured that innovative transportation infrastructure was supported by reliable geotechnical performance and quality-controlled construction.
The Results
Enabling Innovation Through Reliable Ground Performance
Although the Hyperloop program was not completed and Virgin Hyperloop One has since ceased operations, Ninyo & Moore, a SOCOTEC Company, valued the opportunity to work with the project team and contribute to the development and testing of an innovative transportation concept.
Our team supported Virgin Hyperloop One by helping ensure that critical infrastructure elements would be constructed in accordance with design requirements and industry standards.
Image credits: Virgin Hyperloop One
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