08 Shaping a climate-resilient future for Singapore with Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters
DEVELOPMENT
16 Upcoming Launch of Railway Standards
SPONSORED FEATURE
18 TR 25:2022 – driving innovation in EV battery swapping
20 Partnership aims for key role in Singapore’s electric bus roll-out
22 First two of the new Bukit Panjang LRT train cars enter passenger service
Er. Chan Ewe Jin Chief Editor T Bhaskaran t_b_n8@yahoo.com
DESIGN AND ENGINEERING
23 BCA Design and Engineering Safety Award recognises innovation and safety in Singapore’s built environment
ENGINEERING & MANAGEMENT CONSULTING
29 Celebrating 50 years of excellence
PROJECT APPLICATION
34 Streamlining defect management and reducing site rework
36 Important milestone reached in the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel project in Denmark 37 An FRP system for long-lasting strengthening of a historic building in Slovenia
Pioneering the transition to new productivity
From 22 to 25 October 2024, the international sheet metal working industry will gather at EuroBLECH 2024 in Hanover, Germany.
Under the theme, ‘The Power of Productivity,’ some 1,300 exhibitors from 40 countries will showcase the world’s largest selection of sheet metal working technology under one roof, all designed to boost performance and efficiency.
Spanning over 160,000 m2 of gross space, the event will feature a wealth of live demonstrations, product premieres and a packed event programme, with expert talks, guided visitor tours, the prestigious EuroBLECH Awards and a dedicated Careers Day to promote young talent.
EuroBLECH is the world’s top destination for sourcing sheet metal working technology.
The upcoming 2024 edition will offer four days of product sourcing, networking and learning opportunies.
A strong line-up of suppliers from around the globe will represent the entire supply chain in 15 different technology sectors, filling nine exhibition halls with exhibits and live machinery. This year’s event will present the latest productivity solutions for higher output and efficiency.
The exhibits will highlight the technologies required for processing finished and semifinished products, including metal sheets, tubes, coils, profiles, stampings and hybrids. Technologies on display will include those for stamping, punching, pressing, forming, cutting, joining, welding, fastening, handling, finishing, quality control, CAD/ CAM/CIM, tools, machine components, warehouse and factory equipment, material recycling, R&D, and many other application areas.
“We are currently witnessing rapid developments in automation, robotics, AI and IoT devices.
Digitalisation, connectivity and big data are playing a crucial role here, allowing more efficiency, precision and real-time adjustments within the production process,” said Ms Evelyn Warwick, Event Director of EuroBLECH, on behalf of RX, the organisers of the event.
“This year’s EuroBLECH will be the place, to look for guidance on how to use these game-changers in a meaningful way within your own production. Making good, informed choices is key to unlocking the true ‘Power of Productivity’ in terms of output, performance, costs, and sustainability,” Ms Warwick added.
Tapping into fresh ideas
As the flagship event of the sector, EuroBLECH has successfully fostered a culture of innovation, pushing progress within the industry. This year’s event will host many young companies and new participants alongside well-known global players, giving visitors exclusive access to an ever broader array of fresh ideas and technologies.
One out of five companies in the halls will be a new exhibitor, and a dedicated ‘Young Innovators’ Pavilion in Hall 15 will feature promising start-ups from Germany.
Besides Germany, major exhibitor countries at EuroBLECH 2024 are Italy, Turkey, China, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Austria, Portugal, Sweden, India, Finland, France and the US. Around 64% of all exhibitors are based outside Germany.
A total of 76 companies are shortlisted for the prestigious EuroBLECH 2024 Award. Six winners will be honoured at the Official Awards Ceremony on the first exhibition day. The award categories are Stamping and Forming Technology, Cutting Technology, Joining Technology, Surface Technology, Automation and Handling, and Sustainability.
For visitors wishing to further explore the transformative power of innovation, EuroBLECH offers carefully curated Guided Visitor Tours focusing on productivity solutions by companies.
The popular Speaker Forum will make a return, featuring expert talks and presentations on key topics such as automation, robotics, cobots, IoT, and the industrial metaverse. The sessions will run alongside the exhibition.
A special panel discussion will address ‘Automation as a solution to mitigate skilled labour shortage’.
IES CHARTERED ENGINEERING BOARD
The Chartered Engineering Registry aims to provide professional recognition to qualified Engineers, Technologists and Technicians across all sectors.
Being registered as a Chartered Engineering Professional will be an external validation of your experience, expertise and practising competence; and is a quality mark to differentiate your professional standing in the following sectors of engineering:
STE innovations for a sustainable future
The Public Sector Science & Technology Policy & Plans Office (S&TPPO), a department under the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), hosted the Public Service Science, Technology and Engineering Conference (STEC) 2024 at The Theatre at Mediacorp, on 28 August 2024.
This year’s conference, themed ‘Transforming Singapore in a Changing World - STE Innovations for a Sustainable Future,’ attracted more than 850 Public Service Science, Technology and Engineering (STE) leaders and professionals, from more than 50 ministries and agencies, to share ideas, collaborate, and strengthen networks.
Mr Chan Chun Sing, Minister for Education and Minister-in-charge of the Public Service, was the Guest-of-Honour, at the event, where seven projects, led by various Public Service STE agencies, were recognised.
“I give thanks for our forefathers’ foresight, hard work and service that inspired our generation. It is now incumbent upon us to not rest on our laurels, look back at our past, and think that we have arrived. Instead, we have to set ourselves a new set of challenges, confront them and rise to the
the Science, Technology and Engineering capabilities of our country. For me, you will always be the force multipliers of Singapore's capabilities. Without your contributions, we will just be a nation of four million people in 700 square kilometres. With your contributions, ideas, and passion, we can be a nation of four million people, powered by 40 million machines, with 400 million
In addition to the award presentations, this year’s conference featured a keynote presentation by Mr John Churchill, Chief Technology Officer of Dyson, and exhibits from six STE IC projects, eight STE EA projects, and seven Centres of Excellence (CentExs) led by Public Service STE agencies.
The event also included a panel discussion that addressed the topic ‘Driving Innovation in Engineering
Award Recipients
Public Service Science, Technology and Engineering Innovation Challenge (STE IC)
Public Service Science, Technology and Engineering Excellence Award (STE EA)
The Award Recipients.
DISTINCTION AWARD
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) – Successful Completion of the World’s first Ship-to-Containership Methanol Bunkering Operation in the Port of Singapore
MERIT AWARD
Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech) – Addressing Inefficiencies in the WOG Video Ecosystem via Integration of Video Analytics System (VAS) and Cloud Video Exchange (CVX)
HTX, Home Team Science and Technology Agency – Project eXtramural and Project eXorbital
Land Transport Authority (LTA) – Underpinning of NSL MRT Tunnels by Rectangular Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) and Construction of New Mined Tunnels with Ground Freezing Method at Marina Bay Station
Ministry of Health (MOH), Health Promotion Board (HPB) – Launch of Healthier SG
National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore Land Authority (SLA) – Transforming Urban Tree Management
Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) – ePlanner - Whole of Government (WOG) 2D-3D Urban Planning Application with Integrated M&S Capabilities
Director, Arup Cities Business Leader, Southeast Asia and Head of the Centre for Climate Action in Cities; and Mr Ong Tze-Ch’in, CEO, PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency.
Cross-agency collaboration and fostering creativity for driving impactful outcomes
STEC 2024 also spotlighted the STE IC, a hackathon-style competition designed to foster innovation and promote cross-agency collaboration. This initiative encourages teams to develop, test, and prototype solutions to real-world challenges, and generate impactful and scalable innovations.
The STE EA was also presented, celebrating exemplary STE projects that delivered innovative solutions and meaningful outcomes for citizens and communities in Singapore.
The Public Sector Science & Technology Policy & Plans Office
The Public Sector Science & Technology Policy & Plans Office (S&TPPO), a department under the Prime Minister’s Office, works with ministries and agencies to strengthen Ops-Tech capabilities across the public sector, and to leverage S&T as an enabler to build a future-ready and more sustainable Singapore.
Shaping a climate-resilient future for Singapore with Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters
by Victor CW Ong and David CC Ng (Main Authors), and Alicia Wong, Kong Kee, Yee Heng Ong and Kelvin Yung (Co Authors), ONE SMART Engineering Pte Ltd
Singapore’s ABC Waters concept offers a visionary approach to tackling climate change by integrating green infrastructure into urban spaces. Employing solutions like rain gardens and bioretention swales reduces flood risks, enhances water quality and boosts urban biodiversity. This model provides a blueprint for sustainability and climate-resilience for Singapore and for cities worldwide.
INTRODUCTION
The global effects of climate change are becoming more pronounced, with rising temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events and rapidly increasing sea levels. These challenges place immense pressure on urban areas, demanding a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure that goes beyond traditional concrete-based solutions. Singapore, as a densely populated and highly urbanised island, is particularly vulnerable to these climate impacts.
In response, Singapore has pioneered the Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters concept (Figure 1), a holistic strategy introduced by PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, that integrates sustainable water management solutions into urban planning.
By capturing and treating stormwater runoff at its source, the programme improves the
The application of the ABC Waters concept addresses climate change by integrating green infrastructure into urban spaces.
quality of water before it is discharged into downstream waterways and helps mitigate flood risks by reducing peak flows from intense storms.
Figure 2 demonstrates the implementation of the ABC Waters concept in commercial developments, while Figure 3 showcases the application of this concept in Housing & Development Board (HDB) residential developments – government-led projects that provide well integrated public housing in Singapore.
The ABC Waters programme emphasises the integration of natural water bodies, green infrastructure and landscape design into urban spaces to enhance water quality, mitigate flooding and create more aesthetically pleasing environments.
This article explores how the ABC Waters framework supports climate-resilient urban development, by examining successful implementations in residential and commercial spaces.
THE CLIMATE IN SINGAPORE
Singapore experiences a tropical climate characterised by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The island’s monsoon seasons bring intense rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation occurring from November to January.
Over the past several decades, climate change has led to a notable increase in rainfall intensity, amplifying the risk of urban flooding. This has prompted the need for more advanced and sustainable stormwater management strategies.
As urbanisation intensifies, more impervious surfaces such as roads, buildings, and pavements are built, thereby reducing natural ground permeability. This increase in impermeable surfaces exacerbates the problem of stormwater runoff management, overwhelming traditional drainage systems and increasing the risk of urban flooding. Singapore’s rapid urbanisation, coupled with its
relatively small landmass, places tremendous pressure on its water management systems.
To address these challenges, Singapore has adopted a twopronged strategy – enhancing conventional drainage systems, while incorporating green infrastructure solutions through the ABC Waters programme. These solutions are essential for managing stormwater, reducing
flood risks and improving water quality.
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS IN ABC WATERS
The ABC Waters framework transforms water infrastructure into multi-functional green spaces that enhance biodiversity, improve water quality and create aesthetic and recreational amenities in urban environments.
Figure 2: Implementation of the ABC Waters concept in a commercial building.
Figure 3: Implementation of the ABC Waters concept in an HDB development.
Green infrastructure refers to nature-based solutions that use vegetation, soil and natural processes to manage stormwater sustainably.
The following key features of ABC Waters exemplify how Singapore is integrating green infrastructure into its urban landscape:
Bioretention basins
Bioretention basins, also known as rain gardens, are designed to manage stormwater at its source by filtering runoff through specially
designed soil and vegetation layers. These systems capture rainwater from rooftops, roads and other impermeable surfaces, reducing the strain on drainage systems during heavy rainfall events.
Figure 4 illustrates a typical section of a conventional rain garden, as recommended by PUB, while Figure 5 depicts a section commonly implemented in HDB developments. Bioretention basins have been implemented across various HDB projects. Figure 6 is
an example of how they effectively manage stormwater runoff and enhance the urban environment.
Rain gardens help to improve water quality by filtering out pollutants such as sediments, heavy metals and nutrients, before they reach water bodies.
In residential areas, these bioretention systems provide both functional and aesthetic benefits. In commercial developments, as illustrated in Figure 7, rain gardens also offer green spaces
Figure 4: Typical section of a conventional rain garden. Image: PUB (from ABC Waters Design Guidelines, 5th Edition).
Figure 5: Typical section of a rain garden for an HDB development.
for recreation, enhance the biodiversity of the urban landscape by attracting various plant and animal species, and contribute to the overall liveability of the area.
Vegetated swales
Swales are natural drainage channels designed to slow down stormwater flow, allowing sediments to settle and pollutants to be filtered out. They not only prevent erosion but also promote groundwater recharge, creating more resilient urban water systems.
Figures 8 and 9 show a concrete drain and a vegetated swale, respectively. The integration of swales into both residential and commercial areas exemplifies how they can complement existing drainage systems, while providing additional environmental benefits.
Vegetated swales are important for reducing stormwater velocities which, in turn, decreases the erosive force of water as it moves across impervious surfaces. In urban areas, vegetated swales are particularly effective in filtering out sediments and pollutants from runoff, such as oil and grease from roads.
Figure 10 shows the integration of vegetated swales with gravel into a business park’s landscape design and the effectiveness of these systems in managing stormwater and promoting biodiversity.
Figure 11 shows a typical section of a vegetated swale with gravel, implemented at the business park. The feature also adds visual appeal to the urban space, contributing to a more attractive and sustainable environment.
Bioretention swales
Bioretention swales represent an advanced form of vegetated swale that combines water treatment and conveyance functions. A typical section of a bioretention swale is shown in Figure 12. As a result of integrating bioretention systems into the swales, stormwater is treated as it percolates through
Figure 7: Vibrant commercial developments featuring rain gardens and swales, as part of the sustainable design.
Rain garden
Swale
Figure 10: Vegetated swales with gravel, integrated into a business park’s landscape design.
Vegetated Swale with Gravels
Figure 6: An HDB development blooms with rain gardens, enhancing liveable green spaces.
Rain garden
the layers of soil and vegetation. This helps to improve water quality, while managing water flow.
Bioretention swales serve the dual purpose of filtering pollutants from stormwater and reducing flow velocities. This is particularly important in areas prone to heavy rainfall, where rapid runoff can lead to flash floods and damage to infrastructure.
The bioretention swales in various HDB developments and commercial buildings demonstrate how stormwater management can be seamlessly integrated into
the urban fabric to enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
A completed swale in an HDB development is illustrated in Figure 13.
ENGINEERING DESIGN
CONSIDERATIONS FOR ABC WATERS
The design of ABC Waters features relies on careful consideration of soil composition, hydraulic conductivity and the role of vegetation. The effectiveness of these green infrastructure systems depends on their ability to manage
stormwater runoff, filter pollutants and support vegetation growth. Below are the key engineering considerations for the design of ABC Waters features.
Soil composition and filter media
A bioretention system consists of three distinct layers, as shown in Figure 14. The top layer is the filter media, usually made of sandyloam, which serves as the primary component for filtration.
Beneath it lies the transition layer, composed of clean sand with a particle size of 1 mm. This layer
Figure 11: Typical section of a vegetated swale with gravel.
Figure 12: Typical section of a bioretention swale. Image: PUB (from ABC Waters Design Guidelines, 5th Edition).
functions as a barrier to prevent the migration of the filter media into the drainage layer and the perforated und er-drains.
The bottom layer is the drainage layer, which surrounds the perforated under-drains and is typically composed of fine gravel with a particle size of 2 mm to 5 mm. This layer is crucial for channelling the treated water from the base of the filter media to the outlet.
The selection of suitable soil filter media remains a key focus of research and development in the ABC Waters field. The performance of the filter media largely depends on their particle size distribution.
The filter media must be structurally stable to avoid a significant decrease in saturated hydraulic conductivity. To minimise the risk of structural collapse, it is important to ensure that the soil has a well-graded particle size distribution, and a combined clay and silt fraction of less than 12%.
For bioretention systems, selecting an optimal texture, such as sandy loam or loamy sand (Figure 15), supports efficient stormwater infiltration, adequate moisture retention for vegetation and effective pollutant removal.
Hydraulic conductivity and water flow management
Hydraulic conductivity also plays a key role in determining the efficiency of rain gardens and bioretention swales. The design of these systems must balance the need for stormwater retention and filtration with the need for efficient water conveyance. In areas with high rainfall, such as Singapore, rain gardens must be designed to handle large volumes of water, while ensuring that it is properly filtered and treated.
The maximum saturated hydraulic conductivity coefficient (kf) should not exceed 500 mm/hr (and should preferably be between 100 mm/hr to 300 mm/hr), in order to sustain vegetation growth. A kf less than 100 mm/hr but greater than 50 mm/hr could be
Figure 14: Soil composition comprising the drainage layer (A), transition layer (B) and filter media (C).
Figure 13: Bioretention swale with educational signage, completed at an HDB development.
accepted with caution (from PUB’s Condensed Version Engineering Procedures for ABC Waters Design Features 2024 Edition).
This range is intended to ensure that the system can effectively manage and infiltrate stormwater while preserving adequate storage capacity. As illustrated in Figure 16, in-situ ponding tests are carried out to evaluate the filter media’s performance under field conditions, allowing for verification of their effectiveness in managing stormwater.
Bioretention systems require careful engineering to ensure that they provide adequate water retention without causing waterlogging or flooding. These systems typically incorporate perforated subsoil pipes to convey treated water to downstream drainage systems or storage areas, reducing the risk of surface runoff and flooding, during heavy rainfall events.
CONCLUSION
Singapore’s ABC Waters initiative
represents a forward-thinking, climate-resilient strategy that integrates green infrastructure into urban planning. Through the successful implementation of bioretention basins (rain gardens), vegetated swales and bioretention swales, Singapore has effectively managed the challenges of urban flooding, improved water quality, and enhanced the biodiversity of its dense urban environment.
As cities around the world face the growing impacts of climate change, Singapore’s approach provides a blueprint for creating sustainable, resilient and liveable urban environments in residential and commercial developments.
The ABC Waters concept underscores the importance of innovative water management strategies that incorporate environmental, social and economic considerations in a holistic way.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors would like to express their gratitude to PUB, Nature Landscapes Pte Ltd and Prince's
Landscape Pte Ltd, for their support in the implementation of the ABC Waters projects discussed in this article.
ONE SMART Engineering Pte Ltd is the ABC Waters Consultants for these projects.
[2] Condensed Version Engineering Procedures for ABC Waters Design Features, 2024 Edition, PUB.
[3] Guidelines for Filter Media in Biofiltration Systems (2009), Facility for Advancing Water Biofiltration (FAWB).
[4] Eagle B (2016, November 30): ‘Soil texture: Sand, silt and clay’, Thinkingcountry. https://thinking country.com/2016/11/30/soil-texturesand-silt-and-clay/
All images by ONE SMART Engineering Pte Ltd, unless otherwise stated.
Figure 16: In-situ ponding tests are carried out to evaluate the filter media’s performance under field conditions.
Upcoming Launch of Railway Standards
Mr Mohamed Noriman Ibrahim, Chief Engineer, Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL), SMRT Trains Ltd, speaks to ‘The Singapore Engineer’ on two new Technical References (TRs).
The two new TRs are:
• TR 103:2022 - Specification for maintenance process modification in a rapid transit system
• TR 112:2023 - Specification for system and software modifications in the rapid transit system
The Singapore Engineer (TSE): Why is there a need for the creation of Technical References (TRs) for the rail industry?
Mr Mohamed Noriman Ibrahim (MNI): We consider Technical References (TRs) to be a necessary step in establishing a Singapore Standard for the local rail industry. While established rail standards exist in other parts of the world, TRs assist in contextualising those standards to local operating environments and service expectations.
The three-year provisional period is also a useful tool for assessing the suitability of a TR by local rail operators before formalising it into the Singapore Standard. This process can aid in refining a TR and promoting acceptance of the eventual standard.
TSE: What are the objectives of the TRs?
MNI: The objectives of the TRs are:
• To contextualise international standards to the local operating environment.
• To solicit feedback from local operators, and refine the TR, before promulgating it as a Singapore Standard. This process will encourage buy-in and eventual adoption of the Singapore Standard in the rail industry.
• To establish a common understanding and practice
among local rail operators and the regulator, to facilitate sharing and collaboration.
TSE: How can the TRs be of use for the industry?
MNI: A TR is derived from international standards and incorporates experiences from the local rail industry. It promotes standardisation and common good practices among the parties in the rail industry and the regulator. Both TR 112 and TR 103 define the process and requirements for system modification during the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) phase of the Rapid Transit System (RTS).
While TR 112 articulates the general process requirements, TR 103 provides details on the process and tasks for the Public Transport Operator (PTO) to meet the requirements of TR 112. PTOs can adopt TR 112 and TR 103 to establish their internal processes to ensure maintenance activities are carried out safely, efficiently and systematically.
If the industry adopts these TRs diligently, it will facilitate sharing of practices and promote better understanding, since everyone understands the requirements and responsibilities clearly.
TSE: What can the user expect from the TRs?
MNI: Users can expect a better understanding of the regulatory
requirements and responsibilities as a PTO, as articulated in TR 112 and TR 103.
Users can also benefit from these TRs, by setting up processes to meet the regulatory requirements and make the rail system safer and more efficient.
TSE: What specific challenges are addressed by each of them?
MNI: TR 112 defines the general end-to-end process and requirements for modification to the Rapid Transit System (RTS) during the O&M phase. One of the key challenges TR 112 addresses is the hazard assessment and acceptance. TR 112 provides guidelines for areas to be assessed and on how to determine the level of risks to be accepted by the approving authority.
On the other hand, TR 103 defines the second-order details of the maintenance process for the PTO to meet the requirements of TR 112.
Specifically, TR 103 suggests the process of proposing changes to the maintenance regime and modification. It also outlines the details required for submission of a modification proposal, as well as the post- modification requirements. These details enable PTOs to set up their internal processes to ensure modification to the RTS is done safely and systematically.
Ibrahim
TSE: Could you provide some details on the forthcoming webinar that coincides with the launch of the TRs?
MNI: The webinar launch will cover the two aforementioned TRs and there will be panel discussions. Panelists will also take questions that the participants might have. We highly recommend this webinar for anyone who has an interest in the rail industry.
To purchase the TRs, scan the QR code or visit https://bit.ly/RailMaintenance
Webinar on & Launch of Technical References for Maintenance Readiness of a Rapid Transit System on
Date & Time To Be Confirmed
This webinar introduces two new Technical References (TRs) related to maintenance readiness in railway systems. It aims to promote common understanding and consistency on matters pertaining to maintenance readiness in the railway industry.
The two new TRs are:
• TR 112:2023 - Specification for system and software modifications in the rapid transit system
• TR 103:2022 - Specification for maintenance process modification in a rapid transit system
The webinar is complimentary upon purchase of the TR(s).
Towards the first railway cybersecurity international standard
Cybersecurity standards, such as CENELEC TS-50701 and IEC 62443 ensure the robust security and resilient operation of critical rolling stock and rail infrastructure. Standards are sometimes overlooked, but they are an important element in protecting transport networks from potential cyber threats.
Alstom is a key player in shaping the standards.
“Standards are a crucial foundation for trust and interoperability in the rail industry. They provide a common language for stakeholders, ensuring consistent security practices across the entire ecosystem,” said Mr Eddy Thésée, VP Cybersecurity Products & Solutions at Alstom.
Cybersecurity standards are empowering the rail industry to better protect against cyber threats.
The widely adopted IEC 62443 already provides a comprehensive framework for securing industrial automation and control systems, including rail networks, devices and operations centres.
Despite its coverage, IEC 62443 lacks a proven track record for mixed distributed systems – an essential characteristic of railway systems – which is where the CENELEC technical standard, TS 50701, comes in, to address the gaps.
With TS 50701 laying the foundation towards the first railway cybersecurity international standard (IEC 63452), the future IEC 63452 standard will unify cybersecurity management in railway systems, tailored to the sector’s specific operational environment, by building on top of the IEC 62443 series.
Cybersecurity standards help in the following areas:
• Threat identification and risk assessment: Understanding vulnerabilities and prioritising mitigation strategies.
• Security controls: Implementing measures like network segmentation, access control and intrusion detection.
• Incident response: Establishing clear procedures for identifying, containing and recovering from, cyberattacks.
• Patch management: Keeping systems updated with the latest security fixes.
Alstom leverages these standards to future-proof security, enhance efficiency, establish best practice for security operations and maintenance of an effective defence, and build trust and transparency.
Standards Adoption Case Study
TR 25:2022 – driving innovation in EV battery swapping
TR 25 — adapting with the times
Since the publication of Technical Reference for electric vehicles charging system (TR 25) in 2010, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of electric vehicle (EV) charging in Singapore. The 2016 revision provided guidelines for tethered EV chargers, while the latest revision in 2022 expanded its scope to include on-the-go charging solutions of battery swapping to cater for the fast-paced, city-state of Singapore. This revision acknowledges the significant advancements made in the EV industry since its first publication, and sets the stage for productivity boosts allowing more organisations to adopt the use of EVs safely, backed by a standard which now covers end-to-end processes for a wide range of electric vehicles.
The Working Group (WG) appointed by the Singapore Standards Council for the latest revision comprised the LTA, various stakeholders and regional industry players such as Gogoro, who are aligning their battery swapping solutions for motorcycles1 with this TR. Alignment with international standards has always been a priority for Gogoro, recognising that such efforts ensure continued interoperability, safety, and efficiency of their solutions.
In the past, the absence of a unifying standard for EVs and battery swapping impeded the widespread adoption of such solutions due to safety and interoperability concerns. Hence, Gogoro relished the opportunity to be part of the WG that developed the guidelines published in Part 4 — Battery Swapping (for motorcycles) to TR 25:2022. The newly-added part opens up new market opportunities for local and global providers of electric motorcycles that use battery-swapping.
Fleets that rely on tethered charging occupy dedicated parking spaces while charging—something which land-scarce Singapore can ill-afford. In addition, downtime during tethered electric charging also results in productivity loss due to the unavailability of the vehicle for an extended period. Battery-swapping provides an alternative electric refuelling solution optimised for multiple users within a small urban footprint, enabling riders to exchange depleted batteries for fully-charged ones in a matter of seconds. Motorcycles with battery swapping capabilities are therefore ideal as fleet vehicles in densely-populated cities.
Sandboxing new operational and business models
TR 25:2022 complements the LTA’s efforts towards the electrification of the land transport network in Singapore and the reduction of carbon emissions. In 2022, the LTA set up transport sandboxes to encourage industry innovators to try out new solutions and technologies in a safe and controlled manner.
1 Motorcycle in this article refers to two- or three-wheeled vehicles with an electric motor or fuel-powered engines, and includes scooters and mopeds. It does not include motorised bicycles.
Figure 1: Gogoro electric motorcycle and a battery swapping station. Image: Gogoro.
Gogoro leveraged the sandbox to test a new collaborative model with Jardine Cycle & Carriage for fleet management and Foodpanda as end-users of the EV delivery fleet. The Covid-19 pandemic introduced many new users to food delivery platforms, which rely heavily on motorcycles. This has triggered an increase2 in the number of daily trips and distance covered by motorcycles. For food delivery platforms, downtime incurred by tethered electric charging also means lost earnings for the rider, as well as reduced service availability for customers. Hence, a battery-swapping enabled EV fleet makes for a highly attractive proposition.
Even after establishing presence in over 50 cities around the world, Gogoro is still actively studying the complexities behind determining the optimum location and sizing for swapping stations, as well as accurately gauging the capital investment required to maximise the efficiency and profitability of the solutions they roll out. Gogoro and their partners leveraged the sandbox initiative to gather valuable operational data to shape future developments and address common issues in implementing battery-swapping infrastructure for electric motorcycles.
Poised for market expansion
Gogoro's successful pilot in Singapore's sandbox project not only demonstrated the safety and efficacy of their battery swapping solution but also serves as a proof-of-concept to help instil confidence in prospective clients in other markets. Aligned with Singapore's reputation for stringent safety requirements, Gogoro is now well-positioned to seize new market opportunities for battery-swapping electric motorcycles in the region.
As of 2022, less than 1% of motorcycles in countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand—where motorcycles are the preferred mode of transport3 — were electric. The adoption of electric motorcycles in these countries is expected to soar within the next few years as the deadline for the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda approaches. To compete for market share in this fast growth area, having a reliable, financially and operationally viable system would be a key advantage.
The market demands for battery-swapping EVs can be complex, but with the release of TR 25:2022, clear guidance is available for both new and established industry players to provide safe and interoperable solutions. Battery swapping promises to bring efficient yet green transport solutions for not just small city-states like Singapore, but any fast-moving, denselypopulated city where space is a premium.
About Gogoro
Gogoro Inc is a global technology leader in battery-swapping ecosystems from Taiwan. Recognised and awarded by Fast Company as ‘Asia-Pacific’s Most Innovative Company of 2024’ and by MIT Technology Review as a 2023 Climate Tech Company To Watch, Gogoro’s battery swapping and vehicle platforms offer a smart, proven, and sustainable long-term ecosystem for delivering a new approach to urban mobility.
Gogoro’s model includes a development kit that helps OEMs develop motorcycles that can be part of the Gogoro network. In Taiwan, their most mature market, the Gogoro network supports over 55 vehicle models across 10 different vehicle brands—a testament to the openness and interoperability of their battery swapping platform.
Figure 2: Removing charged battery unit at a Gogoro battery swapping station. Image: Gogoro.
Partnership aims for key role in Singapore’s electric bus roll-out
Combining Europe’s best-selling e-bus chassis with ADAS technology from Singapore.
In line with the Singapore Green Plan 2030, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) plans to rapidly electrify the nation’s public bus fleet, with the target of replacing half its fleet of approximately 6,000 buses with zero-emission variants, by 2030.
This move will provide commuters with cleaner and quieter rides. It will also help reduce emissions from the land transport sector, which currently accounts for 15% of all carbon dioxide produced in Singapore.
To support the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and LTA’s continued drive to electrify its bus fleet, MAN Truck & Bus SE (MAN), a leading German commercial vehicle manufacturer, and its partner, Singaporeheadquartered ST Engineering, are developing a solution that meets the latest LTA requirements for public buses.
The solution will feature the low-floor variant of MAN’s awardwinning Lion’s Chassis E and will be configured with three passenger doors. The proposed solution will also be equipped with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), powered by ST Engineering’s AGIL DriveSafe+ technology.
Developed by ST Engineering’s Mobility Services business, AGIL DriveSafe+ leverages AI video analytics technology to provide accurate and reliable all-round monitoring and detection of potential collisions in blind spots, together with other ADAS capabilities, to improve drivers’ situational awareness and road safety. The AGIL DriveSafe+ technology is currently being trialled in select public buses in Singapore.
“Singapore has a very ambitious electrification programme for its
public bus fleet. We are ready to contribute to its successful implementation by offering the right and ready solution in the form of MAN’s proven e-bus chassis that can be easily customised to meet LTA’s requirements. When further enhanced with the first of its kind AGIL DriveSafe+ technology, developed by ST Engineering Mobility Services, our offering
would be extremely competitive,” said Mr Alexander Vlaskamp, Chief Executive Officer, MAN.
Mr Vlaskamp was speaking at the unveiling of the first unit of the right-hand drive, electric single deck MAN bus in Southeast Asia, at a private showcase for representatives from both public and private transport operators.
“At MAN, we believe that the
From left to right, Mr Hoe Yeen Teck, Head, Mobility Road and Services, Urban Solutions, ST Engineering and Mr Alexander Vlaskamp, Chief Executive Officer, MAN, at the unveiling of the first unit of the right-hand drive, electric single deck MAN bus in Southeast Asia.
Ensuring transportation safety
AGIL DriveSafe+ is designed and engineered to enhance the safety of operations across diverse sectors such as Urban Transportation, Defence Services, Homeland Security, Material Handling and Construction.
Solutions powered by AGIL DriveSafe+ are scalable and robust, and are capable of meeting the challenges of various environments. They provide protection for Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and vehicles.
AGIL DriveSafe+ offers versatile configurations to meet varied needs and can be seamlessly retrofitted onto existing vehicles, empowering fleet owners to elevate safety standards throughout the entire lifespan of their fleets.
The full suite of AGIL DriveSafe+ solutions comprises:
• Forward Collison Detection
• Headway Monitoring
• Lane Departure Detection
• Blindspot Detection Warning on VRUs
• Blindspot Detection Warning on vehicles
• Pedestrian Collison Detection
• Anti-Fatigue Driving System
future is electric. Our main focus is definitely on advancing electromobility. To achieve this, we are working on a wide variety of levers – whether it is employee training, end-to-end consultancy for private customers and transport operators, investments in battery production or the constant, further development of our MAN Lion’s City E,” he added.
“We intend to work closely with our customers in every market. Our goal was and is to offer the best electric city bus on the market. Thanks to our successful partnership with ST Engineering, MAN has evolved into one of the strongest brands in the local commercial vehicle market and we intend to play our part in helping power Singapore towards its net zero emissions aspiration,” Mr Vlaskamp continued.
“Building on our long-standing collaboration with MAN, we are
now teaming up to bring to the market a new generation of electric buses that combine best-in-class technology and reliability, with superior driver safety capabilities,” said Mr Hoe Yeen Teck, Head, Mobility Road and Services, Urban Solutions, ST Engineering.
“As our AGIL DriveSafe+ technology undergoes trials in Singapore, we are gathering realworld insights to continuously refine and enhance its capabilities, driving advancements in road safety. We believe this will set a new standard for public transit safety in Singapore, making our roads safer for all,” he added.
MAN’s Lion City E is one of the best-selling e-buses in Europe, with more than 1,000 units on order and more than 450 units in service, in major cities across the continent.
In Singapore, MAN has a long history and track record in powering local public transportation needs.
Since 2011, MAN has delivered more than some 1,500 buses and 1,000 trucks to transport operators and fleet owners in the country.
MAN
MAN Truck & Bus (MAN SE) is one of Europe’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers and providers of transport solutions. The product portfolio includes vans, trucks, buses, diesel and gas engines, as well as services related to passenger and freight transport.
MAN SE, a TRATON SE company and part of the Volkswagen Group, employs approximately 33,000 people worldwide.
ST ENGINEERING
ST Engineering is a global technology, defence and engineering group with a diverse portfolio of businesses across the aerospace, smart city, defence and public security segments.
Pedestrian Collison Detection and Blindspot Detection Warning on Vulnerable Road Users.
External Buzzer (Left)
External Buzzer (Right)
Camera (Back)
Camera (Right)
Camera (Left)
Camera (Front)
Control Module
Alert Indicator
First two of the new Bukit Panjang LRT train cars enter passenger service
They are characterised by new and improved features.
Two, new, third-generation, light rail vehicles for the Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) have begun operations. These two vehicles are part of the batch of 19 new vehicles manufactured by Alstom Transport (S), which will gradually replace the BPLRT’s first-generation vehicles, some of which have been in service for over 20 years.
In parallel, the 13 secondgeneration vehicles in service are being upgraded.
By mid-2025, half of the BPLRT fleet would have completed renewal works and returned to passenger service. By end-2025, all of the 19 new third-generation vehicles would have arrived in Singapore, in time for the full BPLRT fleet to be renewed by 2026.
Enhancements and improved features
As more new and upgraded vehicles enter passenger service, commuters will enjoy smoother and more comfortable rides. To serve commuters better, the new vehicles also come with new LCD monitors with dynamic coloured route displays, to help passengers better identify their current station and track the vehicles’ route.
The new vehicles are also equipped with brighter, energyefficient LED lights, and an upgraded air-conditioning system with enhanced cooling capabilities and even distribution of air throughout the vehicle.
Additionally, the new vehicles feature a condition monitoring system that oversees the health of key systems such as the doors, brakes, and air conditioning. Sensors will be installed on the two vehicles to provide real-time monitoring of the power rail conditions when travelling along
the tracks, allowing for earlier detection and repairing of defects. This system provides the operator with a comprehensive overview of the functionality and performance, of both the vehicles and tracks, enabling pre-emptive maintenance when required.
System renewal works
In addition to the new vehicles, the following multiple, concurrent activities and significant upgrades are ongoing, to renew the BPLRT system:
• Four second-generation vehicles have already been upgraded and are in passenger service. These upgraded vehicles feature the new Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system similar to those used on MRT lines, with backup systems that can enhance system reliability. The remaining nine second-generation vehicles will be gradually upgraded and tested in the coming months.
• The signalling system has also been upgraded in phases, since 2022, with a new supervisory signalling system that was deployed together with the upgraded second-generation vehicles, since
July 2023.
• The Operations Control Centre (OCC) is being refurbished to enhance the overall operational management of BPLRT.
• The entire power supply system for BPLRT has also been fully upgraded with increased capacity, including enhancements such as a dedicated power supply monitoring and control system. The power rail system is also undergoing renewal works, with parts such as the rail brackets and joints being replaced with new and more robust components. All these improvements will help to improve system reliability.
• To facilitate renewal works, dual loop services on the BPLRT had been limited to weekday peak hours. With the progress of renewal works and introduction of new and upgraded vehicles, dual loop services on the BPLRT have also resumed between 11 am and 1 pm, and 5 pm and 7 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, since endJune 2024.
Further resumption of dual loop services will be carried out as further progress is made in renewal works.
BCA Design and Engineering Safety Award recognises innovation and safety in Singapore’s built environment
Six Professional Engineers honoured.
In recognition of the hard work, especially by the engineers, who are constantly challenged to devise innovative engineering solutions to ensure safety and shape the city’s landscape, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has honoured six distinguished Professional Engineers with the BCA Design and Engineering Safety Award (DESA) this year.
The Professional Engineers are Er. Aaron Foong Kit Kuen, from KTP Consultants Pte Ltd for Rivière and the Surbana Jurong Campus projects; Er. Yiong Hoi Liong, from P&T Consultants Pte Ltd, for CapitaSky; Er. Chan Ewe Jin and Er. Sharron Ng Shu Wei, from ECAS Consultants Pte Ltd, for BCA Braddell Campus Phase 2 Intensification Project; Er. Kam Mun Wai, from Meinhardt (Singapore) Pte Ltd, for JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul; and Er. Lim Soon Hui, from AECOM Singapore Pte Ltd, for the Construction of TEL Orchard Station and Additions & Alterations to NSL Orchard Station.
BCA Group Director of Building Engineering, Er. Tan Chun Yong said, “Amidst the complexities of our built environment, the contributions by Professional Engineers have not only adeptly tackled challenging conditions but have also exemplified the highest standards of safety and structural integrity. They set the benchmark for projects across Singapore, showcasing the innovative spirit and dedication of our engineering professionals. We hope our young minds will be inspired to pursue careers in engineering, driving forward sustainable solutions and shaping the future of our nation.”
WINNER OF BCA DESIGN ENGINEERING AND SAFETY AWARD 2024
(Residential Category)
Rivière
Key challenges
• A challenging geology, consisting of thick layers of soft marine
Rivière. Image: SCDA Architects & Finbarr Fallon.
DESIGN AND ENGINEERING SAFETY
PROJECT CREDITS
Project Rivière
Qualified Person
Er. Aaron Foong Kit Kuen
C&S Consultant
KTP Consultants Pte Ltd
Builder
Woh Hup (Private) Limited
Developer Frasers Property Singapore
Architectural Consultant
P&T Consultants Pte Ltd
clay with unbalanced lateral earth pressure swaying towards Singapore River, for housing three levels of deep basements.
• A tight site with one single access point, surrounded by existing buildings and the Singapore River, requiring optimisation of the construction productivity, both onsite and off-site.
• Meticulous restoration of three units of 100-year-old godown heritage buildings, with stringent conservation requirements, to create new connectivity, improve sheltered accessibility and comply with spatial specifications for modern commercial use.
Solutions and features
• Engineering-led innovation and a collaborative team approach helped to realise the strut-free, circular, earth retaining structures, made up of diaphragm wall panels for the basement construction, enabling high productivity and a robust and an overall buildable solution.
• A two-pronged approach, combining numerical engineering modelling methods and experimental testing of the Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) wall structures, ensured safe and optimised DfMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) installation for the high-rise construction.
• Restoration and transformation delivered via rigorous engineering analysis, with carefully considered loading scenarios and in-depth investigative testing, ensured structural integrity of the newly integrated structures while maintaining the charm of the key historical features.
WINNER OF BCA DESIGN
ENGINEERING AND SAFETY
AWARD 2024
(Commercial Category)
CapitaSky
Key challenges
• Located at the former Central Provident Fund (CPF) building,
CapitaSky is a 185 m tall, 29-storey, Grade A Office Building in the Central Business District (CBD). The former CPF building was supported on 186 bored piles and a 10 m thick, cellular raft, with two basements of 10 m deep basement walls that were built along the boundary line site. The basement plan is 100 m (length) by 33 m (width) and the site is in close proximity to other highrise buildings.
• The site is also in close proximity to the existing underground railway tunnels (East-West Line) along Robinson Road and within the LTA Railway protection zone (1st reserve line).
Solutions and features
CapitaSky. Image: CapitaLand.
PROJECT CREDITS
Project CapitaSky
Qualified Person
Er. Yiong Hoi Liong
C&S Consultant
P&T Consultants Pte Ltd
Builder
Shimizu Corporation
Owner
79RR LLP (CapitaLand)
Architectural Consultant
DCA Architects Pte Ltd
Geotechnical Specialist
Professor Harry Tan Siew Ann
Specialist Consultant
Meinhardt (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Specialist Consultant
KK Lim & Associates Pte Ltd
Concept Architect
Gensler Singapore Pte Ltd
• Adoption of DfMA with implementation of Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD) to integrate the work processes from design, fabrication and assembly on-site, as well as the operations and maintenance of the building. The
productivity improved by 45%.
A hybrid structural system was adopted, including precast perimeter columns, precast central corewalls, precast perimeter beams, steel structural beams and steel structural deckings.
Also, a 17 m long cantilever steel truss system was used to create a 9 m high clear ceiling at the Level 2 Main Lobby.
As a result of using the structural steel elements, the building’s selfweight was significantly reduced, thereby enabling a lighter foundation to be specified. This is an important factor that contributed towards the reuse of existing bored piles.
• The adoption of ‘Sustainable Design’, based on ‘Reduce, Reuse & Recycle’, resulted in lower embodied carbon emissions.
In particular, all 186 of the existing bored piles were reused and only 42 new bored piles were required for the foundation works, resulting in a 37% reduction in embodied carbon emissions and a saving of 8400 tons of concrete which could be used for new piles.
• CapitaSky is the first commercial redevelopment building in the CBD area to reuse 100% of the existing bored piles.
Existing substructures were
retained and a new, 3 m thick, pile raft was cast within the existing basements, which successfully minimised environmental impact and prevented excessive ground movement, thereby safeguarding the surrounding buildings and the railway tunnels.
WINNER OF BCA DESIGN
ENGINEERING AND SAFETY AWARD 2024
(Commercial Category)
Surbana Jurong Campus
Key challenges
•The design of inverted pyramid, self-shading structures of the blocks with over one-third of the narrowest Eastern Block’s building footprint cantilevered over the base of the building.
• An intricate, engineering design solution, using sophisticated linkage structures, was required, to enable seamless connectivity across the 10 blocks and a translucent spatial quality of the atrium space for the biophilic development.
Solutions and features
• The adoption of innovative DfMA design strategies using precast, post-tensioned, concrete Vierendeel frames in the Eastern Blocks, was underpinned by
Surbana Jurong Campus. Image: Surbana Jurong & Darren Soh.
PROJECT CREDITS
Project
Surbana Jurong Campus
Qualified Person
Er. Aaron Foong Kit Kuen
C&S Consultant
KTP Consultants Pte Ltd
Builder
Boustead Projects E&C Pte Ltd
Developer
Surbana Jurong
Architectural Consultant
Surbana Jurong Consultants
Pte Ltd
Concept Architect
Safdie Architects
rigorous engineering research via high granular modelling and scenario-based nonlinear analysis, ensuring that the cantilevered building structures remain durable, under the effect of concrete creep and shrinkage, in the long run.
• Eight-storey high, steel ‘A’ frame structures, featuring slender, vertical columns coupled with slanted columns, supported by a long-span compression arch that connects all 10 blocks with aerial walkways, and supports a full-height glass facade. Meticulous buckling analysis was conducted to reconcile complex load paths and ascertain the effective lengths of the structural elements, considering the complex geometrical conditions.
• The fully cantilevered, entrance canopy, up to 16 m in length and with a span-depth ratio of 1:40, without the support of any conventional tiebacks. This required sophisticated parametric analysis and a robust structural design. The innovative engineering design of translating the vertical lever arm to a horizontal plane was inspired by the ‘artist’s conk fungus’.
• Complex engineering integration of bridging elements, via the multistorey hanging, bridging buildings, spanning 31 m, interwoven with elegant demountable tensile
lightweight cable structures in the atrium roof, spanning 40 m, enables seamless connectivity across all the blocks, contributing to a sustainable, resilient and immersive biophilic environment.
WINNER OF BCA DESIGN
ENGINEERING AND SAFETY
AWARD 2024
(Institutional Category)
BCA Braddell Campus Phase 2
Intensification Project
Key challenges
•Implementation of three different types of DfMA technologies in one project, within a fixed timeline.
• The adoption of Mass Engineered Timber (MET) as a construction material in Singapore’s wet-and-hot cyclical weather condition.
• The adoption of a prop-free construction installation method. Erection and construction were
carried out, without the use of temporary propping and support.
• The adoption of six-sided PPVC poses constraints to the space utilisation requirement in the design, for example, in terms of the office space etc.
Solutions and features
•Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) were adopted and supported by the ‘Big Room’ and Integrated Concurrent Engineering (ICE) concept work, to achieve close collaboration and ensure the success of the project in a timely manner.
• Meticulous moisture management for the MET structure, with a systematic, moisture monitoring plan during the construction stage, to ensure moisture can be wicked off, and there is no standing water, after each rain event. Good practices were also put in place to ensure that
no standing water has collected on the Cross Laminate Timber (CLT) or is trapped in the MET connections.
• For prop-free erection, the structural steel cores at the sevenstorey block (MET) were first erected for structural stability and acted as a safe working access. This was followed by zone-by-zone installation, with the sequence column-beam-CLT, in each zone.
For the 16-storey tower block, with the adoption of Advanced Precast Concrete System (APCS) and open module, the team devised a three-dimensional APCS wall, i.e. a precast L-shaped wall.
• Adoption of the open module, i.e. an inverted ‘U’ system which omits the bottom slab, to provide more flexibility in spatial configurations for the design of open office spaces, leading to a less ‘boxy’ building envelope.
WINNER OF BCA DESIGN
ENGINEERING AND SAFETY
AWARD 2024
(Industrial Category)
JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul
Key challenges
• JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul is an integrated facility comprising, all under one roof, a nine-storey, multiple-user, ramp up, warehouse; an Inland Container Depot (ICD); and a heavy vehicle park.
• The design of both the warehouse and ICD involves long span structures, ranging from 12 m to 22.65 m, and high imposed
loadings.
• The ICD is high-volume, with stringent inter-storey drift control and slender columns of up to 45 m in height.
Solutions and features
• Advanced DfMA technologies with prop-free construction was adopted. Hybrid structural systems, that are highly buildable, are engineered to overcome the unique challenges and requirements of the warehouse and ICD.
• In the construction of the warehouse, full precast concrete construction was adopted, for the beams, ribbed slabs, columns and walls, and stitched with in-situ concrete topping, to achieve a monolithic framed structure. The precast ribbed slabs and beams act as permanent formwork, which avoids the need for temporary falsework during erection.
• Innovative steel technology is used for the ICD, with the first application of the SEN System in Singapore. The system consists of two traits – Thin Steel-plate Composite (TSC) Beams and Form
JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul. Image: Kimly Construction Pte Ltd.
• The 45 m high FPSRC columns are cast-in-situ concrete columns which are reinforced with steel lattices, prefabricated using battened structural angles. The system is ideal for productive erection and casting of the tall concrete columns in the ICD.
• The project is executed with Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD), embracing virtual design, automation and smart construction technologies. Deployment of super high performance cranes (with up to 64 ton capacity), is implemented to improve site safety, buildability and precast supply resilience.
WINNER OF BCA DESIGN ENGINEERING AND SAFETY AWARD 2024
(Civil Engineering Category)
Contract T219 – Construction of TEL Orchard Station and A&A to NSL Orchard Station
Key challenges
• To convert the existing Orchard MRT station into a major interchange station, with minimal disruptions to train operations, and minimum inconvenience to patrons of ION Orchard shopping mall and to residents staying in the 56-storey high ION Orchard Condominium.
• To design and construct the
shortest and most direct platform link between TEL and NSL, below the existing Orchard station, without compromising operational requirements.
• To engineer a workable and safe solution in the mining sequence and underpinning at the existing Orchard Station, without compromising structural integrity.
• To construct the platform link below Orchard Boulevard, without temporary traffic diversions and without open cut, top-down or bottom-up construction.
Solutions and features
• Designed the mining and underpinning scheme, without compromising pile load transfer, existing NSL base slab deflection and track movement. Strategic placement of instruments ensured that the monitored data was in agreement with the step-bystep modelling on the mining, underpinning and pile cutting operations, without disrupting train operation.
• Designed an innovative mini steel pipe pile with double flat jack installed, to ensure that the existing NSL base slab is supported during the mining and underpinning operation. Deployed a special, tailor-made, low headroom, multi-
task piling machine for boring into hard strata, following the lowering of the rebar cage and threaded steel piles, prior to the casting and grouting operation.
• Adopted 1200 mm diameter pipes, together with a retractable micro-tunnel boring machine (M-TBM) and steel frames that formed an interlocked, watertight, canopy roof, for mining underneath the existing Orchard Boulevard, for the deep platform link construction, without temporary traffic diversion.
PROJECT CREDITS
Project
Contract T219 – Construction of TEL Orchard Station and A&A to NSL Orchard Station
Qualified Person
Er. Lim Soon Hui
C&S Consultant
AECOM Singapore Pte Ltd
Builder
Penta-Ocean / Bachy Soletanche Joint Venture
Developer
Land Transport Authority
Architectural Consultant SAA Architects Pte Ltd
Contract T219 – Construction of TEL Orchard Station and A&A to NSL Orchard Station. Image: Finbarr Fallon.
Celebrating 50 years of excellence
Meinhardt Singapore passes a significant milestone.
Global planning, design, project and construction management firm, Meinhardt Group, recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of its Singapore office.
The event, which was held at Shangri-La Singapore, was officiated by the Guest-of-Honour, Ms Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Trade and Industry.
“This 50th anniversary marks not only a remarkable achievement for the company but also a proud moment for Singapore. Meinhardt has led the way in engineering excellence for 50 years, playing an integral role in shaping our nation’s built environment.
Meinhardt’s legacy is evident in many signature projects that have become iconic landmarks in our Singapore skyline. These include Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Financial Centre, Resorts World Sentosa and Guoco Tower. Each landmark is a testament to the company’s dedication to innovation and excellence,” said Ms Low in her speech.
“Meinhardt has also been at the forefront of many groundbreaking achievements in Singapore. Notable projects include the Marina Coastal Expressway, our nation’s first undersea traffic tunnel, and SMU Connexion, Singapore’s first onsite net zero energy building in the city centre,” she added.
“Beyond these achievements, Meinhardt has laid the foundation for much of our social and transport infrastructure. From MRT networks to healthcare infrastructure to public housing projects, Meinhardt has shaped the fabric of our everyday lives,” Ms Low continued.
“I am confident that Meinhardt will continue to be an industry leader, championing smart and
Gardens by the Bay.
Guoco Tower.
sustainable solutions in Singapore and beyond. Our Built Environment sector will remain a cornerstone of Singapore’s economy in the future. This vital industry drives growth and creates valuable jobs for Singaporeans. I encourage everyone to adapt and embrace continuous innovation to stay at the forefront of progress,” she added.
“This is a significant milestone marking half a century of Meinhardt’s engineering achievements and dedication to shaping the future of cities. As we celebrate this occasion, we reflect on our rich history, the legacy we have built, and the transformative impact we have had
on Singapore’s skyline and beyond,” said Dr Shahzad Nasim, Executive Chairman, Meinhardt Group.
“As one of the world’s leading multi-disciplinary planning, design, project and construction management consulting firms, Meinhardt has established a strong global presence and continues to lead the way in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions,” he added.
Founded in 1955, and with a presence in Singapore, established in 1974, the Meinhardt Group has grown from a 10-staff offshore office to a global powerhouse with over 6,000 employees across 61 offices worldwide. In 2014, Meinhardt was conferred the
International Headquarters (IHQ) Award by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB).
Valued at an estimated USD 30 billion annually, the group’s projects span the globe, demonstrating its ability to manage some of the world’s largest and most complex building and infrastructure developments.
Today, Meinhardt is one of the most awarded engineering consultancy firms in Singapore, and the largest privately-held design and engineering firm in Asia.
“As we celebrate our Golden Jubilee, we recognise the immense contribution of our dedicated staff, valued clients and partners, who have been instrumental in our success. This anniversary is more than just a celebration of time. It signifies our commitment to technological advancement, innovation, sustainability, and industry-leading urban development and professional consultancy services. The event will not only highlight our past successes but also underscore our future aspirations, as we continue to shape the cities of tomorrow,” said Dr Nasim.
“We have been privileged to play a significant role in shaping Singapore’s built environment and are excited to continue this journey as we expand our global presence and embrace new opportunities in digitalisation and sustainability,” he added.
A LEGACY OF INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE
Over the past decades, Meinhardt Group has played an integral role in shaping the skyline, infrastructure and future of Singapore.
The firm’s contributions are etched into the fabric of the city, as seen in the iconic landmarks that define modern Singapore, such as Guoco Tower, Marina Bay Financial Centre, Resorts World Sentosa, One Raffles Quay, The Sail@Marina Bay, Asia Square, the intricate networks of MRT lines, the revitalised Terminal 1 at Changi Airport, and the Gardens by the Bay conservatories.
Terminal 1 at Changi Airport.
SMU Connexion. Image: SMU.
Contributions to Singapore’s social infrastructure
Sengkang General Hospital and Sengkang Community Hospital exemplify Meinhardt’s contribution to healthcare infrastructure and community health.
Public Housing is another area where Meinhardt has made a difference. Meinhardt provided engineering design services for the HDB development, Skyville @ Dawson, raising the standards and contributing to the transformation of public housing.
NS Square in Singapore exemplifies national pride and sustainability. In the project, which received the BCA Green Mark Platinum (Super Low Energy Building) Award, Meinhardt has utilised innovative space planning; integrated a district cooling system; and incorporated solar-powered, eco-friendly green roofs. This transforms NS Square into a symbol of environmental responsibility.
Pioneering and award-winning contributions
• Meinhardt was the QP supervision consultant for The Marina Coastal Expressway, Singapore’s first undersea traffic tunnel.
• Marina Bay Financial Centre was recognised globally for its enduring significance, with the 2023 Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) Awards’ 10 Year Award.
• The engineering solutions provided for 8 Shenton Way, Singapore’s tallest skyscraper with Green Mark Platinum certification, contributed to the project winning the 2023 CTBUH Awards’ Future Project Award.
• Gardens by the Bay was selected as the 8th Best Attraction in the world, by Traveler’s Choice Awards, in 2024. Meinhardt provided Civil, Structural and Geotechnical design services for the two conservatories (Flower Dome and Cloud Forest), ancillary facilities and 18 supertrees. It also provided the civil infrastructure works for the entire development.
• Last year, Meinhardt’s Civil and Structural (C&S) Engineering team clinched several industry awards for healthcare projects, including the 2023 MOH Holdings Distinguished Award for the National Centre for Infectious Diseases & Centre of Healthcare Innovation, as well as for Sengkang General Hospital and Sengkang Community Hospital.
• The C&S team from Meinhardt was also part of the collective that won the President*s Design Award (P*DA) 2023, for CapitaSpring. The
P*DA is Singapore’s highest honour for designers and designs across all disciplines.
• For CapitaSpring, Meinhardt also received the ACES Design Excellence Award in 2022, from the Association of Consulting Engineers Singapore (ACES); IStructE Singapore Structural Award (High-rise/Slender Structures), in 2022, from IStructE Singapore Regional Group; Structural Steel Excellence Award in 2023, from the Singapore Structural Steel Society; and
Sengkang General Hospital.
NS Square. Image: Woha Architects.
ENGINEERING & MANAGEMENT CONSULTING
awards for Best Tall Building, Asia, and Best Tall Building 200-299 Meters, under the 2023 CTBUH Award of Excellence, from CTBUH.
• This year, the C&S team has added three notable BCA awards to its list of accolades:
-BCA Design and Engineering Safety Award 2024 for the JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul.
- BCA Project of the Year Award 2024 (Industrial) for the JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul.
- BCA Project of the Year Award 2024 (Residential) for The Woodleigh Residences and The Woodleigh Mall.
• The Mechanical & Electrical Engineering (M&E) team of Meinhardt Singapore was conferred the 2024 ACES Design Excellence Awards (Merit) for its work on
JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul.
A DIGITAL FUTURE
Looking ahead, Meinhardt is committed to driving digital transformation in the Built Environment sector.
Meinhardt’s partnership with Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), through the Digital Leaders Programme (DLP), is a cornerstone of this journey. The DLP empowers companies like Meinhardt in building robust digital capabilities to seize new business opportunities.
Through the programme, Meinhardt has established a dedicated digital team, including data and software engineers, to drive digital transformation efforts. This initiative not only helps the firm stay ahead in the competitive landscape today, but also aligns with Singapore’s vision of becoming a Smart Nation.
Meinhardt’s Digital Technology Solutions (DTS) team has embarked on two key projects:
• Generative AI Urban Consultancy Augmentation Tool: A generative artificial intelligence (AI) tool that ingests Meinhardt’s deliverables and intellectual capital to allow for generation of new reports, knowledge and deliverables, geared towards and fine-tuned for urban consultancy. This tool aims to improve the quality of consultancy deliverables, while saving time and effort for the firm’s consultants.
• AI Analytics for Built Environment Tool: An AI tool to ingest, aggregate, consolidate and analyse vast amounts of data generated across the lifespan of a built asset, but mainly focused on asset / facilities management and project management in construction. This tool will allow built asset owners to have greater insight into their buildings and make data-driven decisions.
“Our partnership with IMDA is a testament to our commitment to leveraging technology to drive innovation and efficiency in the Built Environment sector. We are
proud to be at the forefront of this digital revolution, developing AI tools and solutions that will redefine how we design and manage our projects,” said Mr Omar Shahzad, CEO of Meinhardt Group.
“At Meinhardt, innovation is in our DNA. We are continuously exploring new technologies and approaches to enhance our service offerings and deliver sustainable solutions. Our goal is to not only meet the current needs of our clients but to anticipate and address the challenges of the future, ensuring that we remain a trusted partner in shaping the cities of tomorrow,” he added.
“We would like to congratulate Meinhardt in marking its 50th year in Singapore. IMDA is excited to partner forward-looking enterprises, like Meinhardt, to develop core digital competencies and innovate with emerging technologies such as generative AI. This helps companies gain a leading edge while raising productivity,” said Mr Leong Der Yao, Assistant Chief Executive, Sectoral Transformation Group, IMDA.
“We welcome more like-minded enterprises to join our Digital Leaders Programme to gain a competitive advantage as IMDA continues to develop Singapore’s digital future,” he added.
SUSTAINABILITY IN ENGINEERING
Sustainability is at the core of Meinhardt’s mission. As a key contributor to Singapore’s Green Plan 2030, the firm is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and carbon net zero by 2050 or sooner, with a clear roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and integrating sustainable practices into every project.
As part of its master planning and urban infrastructure planning advisory services, Meinhardt has incorporated the Environmental Sustainability Design (ESD) and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework. Also, by adopting advanced construction techniques, such as Design for Manufacturing and Assembly
(DfMA), 3D Printing and Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD), Meinhardt is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also contributing to the development of green cities around the world.
Meinhardt’s efforts in sustainable engineering have been recognised with multiple green certifications, from BCA and from international agencies. Right from the work on Singapore’s first net zero energy building to its involvement in the design of green skyscrapers like 8 Shenton Way, Meinhardt continues to push the boundaries of sustainable engineering.
The firm's projects not only meet current environmental standards but also set new benchmarks.
“Singapore is committed to the global decarbonisation agenda, and our engineers and other stakeholders need to play a key role in achieving these targets we have committed to, and in managing and mitigating the inevitable consequences of climate change, by ensuring our designs make optimal use of resources and energy. As we move towards a greener and more sustainable future, the Built Environment sector stands at the forefront of this transformation, and the role of engineers and engineering companies is more critical than ever,” said Dr Nasim.
“Our future lies in our ability to adapt and innovate. As we look to the next 50 years, we are committed to driving sustainable development and enhancing our digital capabilities to deliver even more value to our clients and communities worldwide. We believe that our proven expertise in design, engineering, project and construction management, coupled with our laser focus on digital transformation, positions us well to lead the industry into a new era of growth and resilience. We aim to transform cities and shape a better, more sustainable future for all,” said Mr Shahzad.
All images by Meinhardt Group, unless otherwise stated.
Streamlining defect management and reducing site rework
The way to minimise schedule delays and cost increases in construction projects.
Cost overruns are a prevalent issue in the construction industry, with rework being a major factor driving these budget increases. It is estimated that up to 25% of construction projects experience significant budgetary excesses due to rework. This issue is not just a minor setback, it represents a substantial financial burden on the industry.
The construction industry is a key pillar of Singapore’s economy, but rework has become a common concern in ongoing construction projects. A study of 381 construction projects in Singapore found that 80.4% of the companies and 59.3% of the projects experienced significant rework, leading to an average cost increase of 7.1% and a minimum schedule delay of 3.3 weeks.
Annually, the global construction sector loses more than USD 1 trillion due to site errors and the need to redo work that was not done correctly the first time. These inefficiencies have a considerable impact on the industry’s overall profitability, particularly in large and complex projects, where the likelihood of errors and changes is greater. In such projects, the cost of rework can sometimes exceed 20% of the total project costs, making it a critical concern for project managers and stakeholders.
THE NEED FOR DIGITALISATION
Efforts to mitigate the financial impact of rework have shown promising results. Research indicates that implementing robust quality and defect management processes can reduce the occurrence of rework by 50%, and the adoption of digital tools has been shown to further decrease rework by up to 30%. These tools
and processes enhance accuracy and efficiency, leading to more streamlined project execution and significant cost savings.
As the construction industry continues to grapple with the challenges of managing complex projects, the integration of these strategies becomes increasingly vital to maintaining profitability and delivering projects within budget.
SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION BY PROJECT DEVELOPER
Over a period of 55 years, GARBE Immobilien-Projekte GmbH (GARBE), based in Hamburg, Germany, has established itself as a leading, independent partner in sustainable real estate, construction development, portfolio operations and logistics services. Operating on a panEuropean platform, the company offers stakeholders comprehensive, integrated, end-to-end solutions.
With a presence in over 16 international offices and a team of approximately 280 staff, GARBE specialises in the development of residential, industrial and office real estate. The company manages assets currently exceeding EUR 10.6 billion, underscoring its significant role in the real estate market.
GARBE is involved in every phase of construction projects, from land acquisition and building design to planning, project completion and sales. The company places a strong emphasis on maintaining high work quality throughout the construction process.
With an ongoing range of complex and high-budget development projects active, at any given time, issues such as site work errors, defects and miscommunication can make for expensive and unplanned potential rework.
To ensure that defect management is handled efficiently and warranty issues are addressed promptly, GARBE employs PlanRadar, a digital tool that streamlines these processes. This meticulous attention to detail ensures the quality of the projects and reinforces GARBE’s reputation as a reliable and innovative player in the real estate sector. Through these efforts, the company continues to deliver projects that meet the evolving needs of the market, while maintaining the highest standards of excellence.
The challenge
Defect management is an essential part of keeping the number of defects as low as possible and the effort required for any follow-up to a minimum – fewer defects, less rework. When planning, scheduling and overseeing development projects of any size or scale, the GARBE teams’ main priorities include overseeing cooperative collaboration with all people and companies involved on site.
“In the past, we were faced with the challenge of snagging being done using clipboards, notebooks and Excel tables. It was all very time-consuming. Defects were recorded differently by various trades and workers, as there were no unified standards. What is more, gaps in the system meant that the documentation of how defects were remedied was not always easy to follow,” said the GARBE site manager. The unintentional result was that workers needed to spend a great deal of additional hours on completing records in the office.
The solution
GARBE has been utilising PlanRadar since 2017, following a
thorough review of various market competitors. The decision to adopt PlanRadar came after a successful trial run during a Berlin-based project, which demonstrated the software’s effectiveness.
Upon the trial’s success, GARBE implemented a company-wide rollout of PlanRadar to enhance communication and documentation processes from sites directly to the main offices. The platform is used not only by GARBE employees but also by external contractors, ensuring streamlined collaboration and efficient project management across all phases of construction.
“The interface is intuitive and easy to use. Additionally, PlanRadar has an incredible range of functions. From the simple creation of tickets to record defects, to informative analyses and PDF reports produced in seconds, PlanRadar offers us a comprehensive solution for all defect management documentation,” the GARBE team explained.
GARBE now utilises PlanRadar for a range of international projects, including the award-winning Bloom housing development in Hamburg’s Pergolenviertel area. From 2018 to 2020, GARBE managed the construction of 72 homes on this site, with the project costs totalling approximately EUR 30 million.
The successful execution of this project highlights the effectiveness of PlanRadar in managing complex construction tasks.
The development team from GARBE included project development leads, site managers and project assistants, all working in close coordination to ensure the project’s success. In addition to the core team, various contractors from different trades were brought in to address defects and ensure that the construction met the highest standards. This collaborative effort underscores GARBE’s commitment to quality and efficiency in delivering large-scale housing projects.
Summarising how PlanRadar was used in the Pergolenviertel area and in other projects, the GARBE team said, “The software means
that all the participants have a single platform available to them. This enables process chains to be automated and we also benefit from maximum traceability, thanks to complete documentation of all steps. Automating the follow-up defect management processes means we have reduced the working hours we spend on this, by around five hours a week.”
This allows site managers to focus their expertise on other critical aspects of the projects. However, this was not the only advantage. The GARBE team observed that using PlanRadar to shorten process chains also enhanced overall project quality. The quick identification of defects
and the high level of transparency provided by the software significantly improved performance for both clients and contractors.
PlanRadar
PlanRadar is an award-winning digital B2B platform that creates time and cost-savings in construction and real estate projects, by digitising task management, documentation and communication, for over 150,000+ users in 75+ countries worldwide. More information can be obtained from www.planradar.com.
GARBE utilises PlanRadar to manage complex tasks in construction projects.
PlanRadar enables GARBE to enhance communication and documentation processes from sites directly to the main offices.
Important milestone reached in the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel project in Denmark
At the time of its completion, the 18 km long tunnel will be the longest, immersed tunnel in the world, and is currently the largest infrastructure project in Northern Europe.
Upon its scheduled completion in 2029, the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel will link Denmark and Germany for both road and rail traffic. With a travel time of only seven minutes by train and 10 minutes by car, this construction project provides a rapid rail connection between Scandinavia and Central Europe.
The immersed tunnel has a total width of 42 m and comprises five tunnel corridors. Two of these corridors are two-lane and intended for motor vehicles, two are single-lane and intended for rail traffic, and the remaining tube is a service and escape passage.
PERI developed a formwork solution for the production of the 79 standard tunnel elements, characterised by high performance, productivity and compliance with high safety standards.
They are manufactured, in parallel, on five production lines, with the latest line having commenced operations in February 2024. Each of the standard tunnel elements is 217 m in length and weighs 73,000 t.
More than 11,000 t of PERI Formwork material delivered
The custom-made PERI Steel Formwork Solution was manufactured at the PERI plant in Weißenhorn, Germany, and in Poland and Italy. The PERI solution consisted of more than 11,000 t of formwork material which was delivered to the production site by 12 ships and more than 275 trucks. A sophisticated logistics concept was developed to meet the given deadlines.
All five production lines in operation
Due to the close collaboration
between the PERI onsite support team and Femern Link Contractors (FLC) site personnel, all five production lines, each comprising over 250,000 parts, were successfully assembled.
Numerous tunnel segments already concreted
Each of the 217 m long standard tunnel elements is composed of nine, 24 m long segments.
The production of all the 79 standard tunnel elements requires more than 700 castings. The special PERI formwork solution was used to complete the numerous concreting jobs, each job involving the pouring of around 3,300 m3 of concrete. After the starting phase, the production lines will transition to series production.
In addition to the special solution that was an important factor for
the concreting of the segments, PERI also provided standard solutions.
PERI UP Scaffolding solutions are variably combined with, and attached to, the custom-made steel formwork and thus provide secure access to the production lines in all production stages. PROKIT Mesh
Barriers offer reliable protection against falls. FLC is using PERI InSite Construction pressure sensors to monitor the formwork pressure, in order to ensure compliance with the casting speed.
Ongoing support by PERI
Through close cooperation and regular maintenance, PERI provides assistance throughout the complete project, ensuring that the production lines can operate at maximum capacity during series production.
The formwork for the production of the 79 tunnel elements comprised a mixture of custom-made material and standard PERI systems. Image: Femern A/S.
An FRP system for long-lasting strengthening of a historic building in Slovenia
The spaces inside were redeveloped to create a cultural hub focusing on design, applied arts, craftsmanship and recreational activities.
The redevelopment of the former Rog bicycle factory in Ljubljana, Slovenia, has transformed it into a modern cultural hub, featuring a wide range of creative spaces.
Mapei’s FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) system played a crucial role in the structural strengthening of the building, ensuring durability while preserving the site's historical significance.
From 1951 to 1991, the bicycle manufacturer, Rog, had its production activities based in a two-storey brick masonry building, 120 m long and 10 m wide, in what used to be a dye works in the centre of Ljubljana, close to the
River Ljubljanica.
After production came to an end, the building was declared a Monument of National Interest, in
1998, by the Slovenian government and was then purchased by Ljubljana City Council in 2002. Since then, apart from occasional events,
A view of the interior of the new Rog Centre in Ljubljana, Slovenia.
A façade was created on the south-facing side of the new Rog Centre, with large windows, allowing natural light to enter and illuminate the internal spaces.
the structure remained unused, until 2021, when demolition and reconstruction work was undertaken as a redevelopment and conservation project to give the building a new lease of life.
The aim of the project was to transform the 8,500 m2 area into a large cultural hub with workshops for arts, cooking, 3D printing, IT, ceramics, carpentry and metalworking activities, along with a bookshop and accommodation for artists and researchers, from overseas, visiting the city.
There are also 25 studies and ateliers (studios) available which artists, designers, craftsmen, technicians and small-scale manufacturing companies can use for individual creative projects.
To create these spaces, the upper floor of the original building had to be demolished, which was then replaced by a structure with a reinforced concrete skeleton with arched beams and profiled columns. This also enabled a façade to be created on the south-facing side, with large windows allowing natural light to enter and illuminate the internal spaces.
Modern design for a historic building
The redevelopment project was particularly complex, because it also included work to upgrade the building’s seismic capacity and antifire system, along with other works to guarantee its overall energy efficiency.
The core of the building was maintained by constructing a new long, thin glass façade on the north-facing side, which also contains the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, a stairway and lifts. Other floors were also added, starting with the first floor above the pre-existing structure at ground-floor level.
A crucial part of the project was the structural strengthening work on the reinforced concrete frame, the aim of which was to overcome problems caused by lateral loads and to increase the shear and flexural strength of the
structural elements. To guarantee that the structure has sufficient resistance to seismic events, composite materials from the FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) system were used, which were supplied by Mapei d.o.o.
Structural strengthening
The calculations to dimension the strengthening system were carried out using MAPEI STRUCTURAL DESIGN, an online tool available from Mapei, for professionals from the sector. MAPEI STRUCTURAL DESIGN was used to calculate the proper size of the FRP materials and the capacity of the strengthened sections. The materials required, along with their quantities and layout, were chosen, in compliance with the design documentation drafted by the structural engineer commissioned for the project.
The solution chosen was an FRP system, consisting of carbon fibre plates and fabrics and epoxy resin. This type of system has numerous advantages, such as high resistance to chemicals over the years, and an increase in mechanical properties, without the need for increasing the overall mass and stiffness of the structure.
Regarding the strengthening applied for seismic purposes, these advantages are quite important because the thicknesses applied
are small and the structure becomes more ductile. The work itself is quick and simple and may be reversed if and when required.
Before applying the strengthening system on the structural elements in the Rog Centre, the surfaces had to be prepared to make them suitable for application of the materials. The render was removed to expose the concrete substrate which was then abraded to remove any loose or crumbling parts.
Pull-off tests were then carried out on the concrete elements, considering > 1.5 MPa as the ideal reference value for adhesion to the substrate. The porous surfaces were treated with MAPEWRAP PRIMER 1 epoxy primer.
CARBOPLATE E 170, 5 cm, 12 cm and 15 cm wide, pultruded plates, in carbon fibre, were applied on the reinforced concrete pillars and beams of the upper floors, using ADESILEX PG1 epoxy adhesive and employing the ‘fresh on fresh’ technique.
For the pillars, where the overhangs had not been eliminated, additional strengthening was added by applying 60 cm wide MAPEWRAP C UNI-AX carbon fibre fabric with a weight of 300 g/m2, to transfer the loads below the overhangs. The same type of fabric, this time 10 cm long, was bonded to both
To guarantee the structure has sufficient resistance to seismic events, composite materials from the FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) system were used for structural strengthening.
the columns and beams to act as stirrups.
The pitch between the lengths of fabric varied from 20 cm to 50 cm. The various pieces of MAPEWRAP C UNI-AX fabric were bonded with MAPEWRAP 31 T epoxy adhesive, pressing them down into the layer of adhesive while still wet, using an aluminium roller.
To guarantee good adhesion of the new render to the plates and strips of fabric, another layer of adhesive was applied on their surfaces, followed by broadcasting of the adhesive with dry silica sand.
To bind the entire transverse section of the reinforced concrete,
the plates and strips of fabric were anchored with 10 mm diameter MAPEWRAP C FIOCCO unidirectional carbon fibre cord. The same product was also used to bond the reinforced concrete pillars to the brickwork around the window openings.
Repair of the concrete elements on the first floor
On the first floor, the damaged sections of the reinforced concrete floor beams and pillars needed to be repaired. All the loose, damaged or deteriorated parts of concrete were removed until the surfaces and elements were solid and clean. The rust was removed from all
the exposed rebars which were then treated with MAPEFER 1K anti-corrosion mortar.
The sections, where the concrete had been removed, were reintegrated with MAPEGROUT T60 fibrereinforced thixotropic mortar, a product particularly suitable for concrete repair works.
A structurally strengthened hub of creativity
Thanks to the renovation and redevelopment work carried out on the Rog Centre, since the start of 2023, there is now a modern structure with almost 9,000 m2 of renovated spaces and more than 8,000 m2 of open gardens available for social and creative activities for the inhabitants of Ljubljana and for visitors to the city.
And while it may be invisible, the structural strengthening work is an essential component of the redevelopment project. It has enabled and guaranteed a long service life and a high level of safety for the new centre, and helps preserve this building which is of considerable historic interest.
PROJECT DATA
Project Rog Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Period of construction
2021-2023
Period of renovation
2021-2023
Owner Ljubljana City Council
Design
Bax studio and Jaka Bežan, u. d. i. a.
Main contractor
Makro 5 gradnje, d.o.o.
Structural strengthening contractor Gras, d.o.o.
Works supervision
Lokainženiring, d.o.o.
The carbon fibre pultruded plates and fabrics were anchored in place using MAPEWRAP C FIOCCO carbon fibre cord, chemically anchored with MAPEFIX VE SF two-component chemical anchor.
The external columns of the north-facing façade were strengthened with CARBOPLATE carbon fibre plates and MAPEWRAP C UNI-AX carbon fibre fabrics.
Caterpillar launches eight next generation skid steer loaders and compact track loaders
Caterpillar has introduced eight next generation skid steer loader (SSL) and compact track loader (CTL) models.
Four new Cat SSLs – the Cat 250, 260, 270 and 270 XE – mark the introduction of the next generation design to the SSL line.
Meanwhile, the new Cat 275, 275 XE, 285 and 285 XE mark the expansion of the next generation design for the CTL line, joining the 255 and 265, announced in late 2023. The largest CTLs ever produced by Caterpillar, the new Cat 285 and 285 XE, compete in a new class size, with greater lift height and lift and tilt breakout forces.
Maintaining the DNA of what made the Cat D3 series a leader, the next generation SSL and CTL models are a ground-up redesign that improves on the features that made the previous series popular. High performance is the standard for these next generation machines, elevating Caterpillar’s loader reputation through upgrades in engine power and torque, lift and tilt breakout forces, stability, operator comfort and technology.
The new SSL and CTL models carry on Caterpillar’s new machine nomenclature with the elimination of the series letter designation. All next generation Cat SSLs are now identified by an ending model number of 0, while all CTLs have a model number ending in 5. Simplifying nomenclature, the middle number represents machine size with a larger number designating a larger machine.
A new performance benchmark
All next generation Cat SSL and CTL models feature a redesigned engine
compartment that places the engine and cooling package lower into the frame, for improved stability, giving the operator confidence in handling heavy loads throughout all aspects of the work cycles.
Meeting US EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emissions standards, the four new CTL models are powered by the Cat C3.6TA engine, while the 250 and 260 SSLs are powered by the Cat C2.8T, and the 270 and 270 XE by the Cat 3.6TA. These new engines maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range compared to the previous engines powering the D3 series, and boast significant torque increases – 13% for the 250 and 260, 35% for the 270 and 50% for the 275 and 285 –for improved working performance. With a vertical lift design, these new next generation machines feature significant increases in lift height, breakout forces and ROC (Rated Operating Capacity) to elevate loader flexibility and performance.
Technology advancements
These new SSLs and CTLs offer the next level of integrating machine and technology. Both standard and advanced monitors provide the ability to run Cat Smart Attachments, such as the dozer and grader blades and backhoe. Attachment operation is integrated into the joysticks, and the machine automatically recognises the type of attachment and the required joystick pattern for controlling it.
The Cat Product Link Elite tracks machine hours, location and asset utilisation; provides fault code details; and delivers advanced monitoring and machine health with data remotely accessible via VisionLink. Additionally, Product Link Elite provides Remote Flash and Remote Troubleshooting capabilities and quickly enables the remote activation of the software enabled attachment (SEA) High Flow feature.
