Innovative Precast Concrete Solutions for Residential Complex Development
About the project
The project is a multi-stage residential complex located near the city center of Tallinn, Estonia. Comprising five-story buildings, the development demanded high-quality construction standards, primarily utilizing precast concrete elements. The design and construction phases spanned from October 2022 to January 2024, reflecting a remarkably efficient timeline given the complexity and scope of the work.
Engineering challenges
The primary challenge in this project was the intricate design of the buildings, necessitated by the architect’s vision. The buildings feature various discontinuities, such as changes in floor levels and numerous openings for HVAC systems. Additionally, the construction site’s proximity to the sea required a watertight underground parking lot, further complicating the structural design. Ensuring the stability and robustness of the buildings, especially considering the stringent deadlines and high fines for delays, added another layer of complexity.
Solutions and results
IDEA StatiCa Implementation:
To address the complex design requirements, the engineering team employed IDEA StatiCa Detail and Concrete Member applications extensively. These tools were instrumental in analyzing and optimizing the structural elements, particularly the deep beams and load-bearing walls with numerous openings. The software's ability to perform non-linear analysis and provide detailed crack patterns was crucial in ensuring the robustness of the design.
Precast Concrete Elements:
The project heavily relied on precast concrete elements, which were preferred for their quality and quick assembly time. The detailed design phase included precise modeling of these elements, incorporating all necessary reinforcements and connections. The use of prefabricated sandwich panels, comprising a 200mm inner core, 250mm insulation, and an 80mm outer layer, ensured excellent sound insulation and thermal performance.
Collaborative Workflow:
A well-coordinated workflow was established, utilizing Asana for task management. This ensured seamless communication and task delegation among the engineering team, modelers, and drafters. The meticulous organization helped in meeting the tight deadlines, with one floor typically assembled in a week.
Real-Time Adjustments:
During construction, real-time adjustments were necessary due to unforeseen changes, such as client requests to remove structural columns. The flexibility and efficiency of the engineering team, supported by IDEA StatiCa, allowed for swift modifications without compromising the project timeline.
Final Outcome:
The project was completed successfully within the stipulated timeframe. The buildings exhibit high structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, meeting the developer's quality expectations. The use of IDEA StatiCa and prefabricated elements proved to be a game-changer, ensuring both efficiency and robustness.
