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21 September 2009
GHD has been recognised for overcoming a challenge of towering
proportions in its work on the world’s tallest building, Burj
Dubai.
The Concrete Institute of Australia (CIA) has
presented the company with an Award for Excellence for its
groundbreaking work in pumping concrete to a height of 601m during
construction of the Dubai landmark.
GHD fulfilled the critical role of Independent
Verification and Testing Agency for EMAAR Properties, the developer
of the 160-plus storey tower.
The team, led by concrete specialist Dr James
Aldred, was involved in concrete mix development as well as quality
control and assurance on materials used throughout the project.
One of the major challenges posed by the project
was the soaring temperatures experienced in the Middle East, where
the mercury can rise to 50C in the shade.
A decision was taken to do all concreting for the
vertical elements of the tower at night and the concrete’s water
content was made up almost entirely of flake ice during the summer
months.
Getting the concrete mixture right was also
crucial, with five different mixtures tested during trials.
The CIA recognises significant contributions to the
development of concrete technology and practice.
“The pumping of high quality concrete on the Burj
Dubai to 600 metres was an exceptional achievement in concrete
technology, and one of which our team is very proud,” Dr Aldred
said.
“GHD is well known for its technical skill, and we
are building a reputation for innovation in solving technical
challenges for our clients.”
The Burj Dubai currently stands over 800m high. Its
final height will not be revealed until construction is
complete.
For further information, contact:
Sonia Adams