Melbourne Metro Tunnel Upgrade, Melbourne VIC
Melbourne's biggest transformation of the Metro Tunnel rail network in 40 years was an extensive project with over 900 meters of tunnel.
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During the construction of Melbourne city's biggest transformation of the Metro Tunnel rail network, workers required hop-up platforms at regular intervals along the tunnels as a dedicated refuge for personnel to use when construction vehicles pass by.
The design and construction time frame of the project meant the access solution needed to be custom-made to suit the curves of the tunnel, whilst still being high-strength and high-quality to ensure the access products can be used throughout the full project lifespan.
The stairs also had to withstand the intense and harsh environments they will be constantly under in the tunnels.
Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project, Melbourne VIC Australia
Solution
From concept, we worked closely with the developers, design consultants, engineers and alliance partners to design a simple access platform system that can be customised to suit the various requirements in the different parts of the tunnel.
We designed a customised modular access solution that mounted directly to the cast-in ferrules thus removing the need for any additional onsite drilling. The platforms incorporated handrails, a ladder and a self-closing gate for ultimate safety and ease of access.
Being modular, the platform could be disassembled and stored inside the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) to be reinstalled at the required locations along the tunnels.
The simple design of our access platforms was a lifesaver for the workers on-site, as they could get the systems installed in a very short amount of time, ensuring no disruptions to the constructions demanding schedule.
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Temporary access platform concept
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St Kilda Road Portal/Acoustic Shed
Built to contain noise and dust during excavation works, a large temporary acoustic shed was built 20m high above the construction works at St Kilda Road. Due to the size of the structure, workers needed numerous stairs to gain access throughout the site.
Included in the access package was a modular access stair built with an extra-wide step to withstand the number of workers using it, with extra cross-bracing to keep the structure strong and sturdy throughout use.
As all of our access systems are constructed with aluminum components, they are designed to withstand underground applications, including marine exposure, material corrosion zones and high‑pollution industrial areas, making them a perfect fit for the harsh environments of the tunnels.
The simple, high-strength designs of our access systems were a game-changer for the teams that work on the Metro tunnel. The no-fuss requirements meant no disruptions, a perfect outcome for this complex project.
Your product is excellent, and the TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) Crew are extremely happy with the result! - Bouygues Construction Australia
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Photo credit: Metro Tunnel Project Instagram
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