Taking a look at construction around the world can provide an interesting glimpse of how different countries build their cities. From the Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai to the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland, there is a lot to learn and see. You can also learn about construction methods such as modular construction and study abroad opportunities.
Modular construction methods
Modular construction is an idea that has long intrigued engineers, architects and planners. This innovative method involves building entire rooms or even entire buildings in prefabricated units and transporting them to the construction site. They are then placed into steel frames and connected to utilities. Modular buildings are far more cost-efficient than traditional construction methods, and governments often see modular construction as a way to maximize budgets.
Modular buildings are typically 60% to 90% complete offsite before they are transported to the site. The modules may be a single structure, or they may be a part of a larger structure. Many modular contractors work in tandem with traditional general contractors to create an integrated project. The modules are then assembled by cranes, which takes several hours or even days.
Modular construction first gained popularity in the United States during the California Gold Rush. The Crystal Palace of the Great Exhibition of 1851 was built in this manner. The method also gained popularity during World War Two as a method to rebuild homes. The prefab process was quickly adopted in many countries, including post-war Japan and Europe. Today, modular construction methods are widely used throughout the world.
Modular construction is a sustainable building method that can reduce the use of natural resources. In addition to saving natural resources, modular buildings can be expanded continuously. They are also relocatable, meaning they can be used wherever they are needed. Unlike traditional buildings, which are expensive and difficult to move, modular buildings can be easily relocated.
Another benefit of modular construction is the reduction of on-site construction activities. It eliminates more than 80% of building construction activities from site, reducing traffic and disturbance, as well as improving safety. Additionally, it eliminates most of the ongoing hazards associated with construction on sites, which is important for businesses and other highly active areas.
The modular construction market has grown rapidly in the past few years, with global sales reaching $76 billion by 2021. Although this represents a small part of the $1 trillion construction industry, it is expected to continue growing as demand increases. As more people realize the benefits of modular construction, the demand will continue to grow.
Al Maktoum International Airport
The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to make it the world’s busiest airport by 2050. Currently, it handles 7 million passengers a year. Once finished, the airport will accommodate more than 200 million passengers per year. The airport will be constructed in two phases over six to eight years. The expansion will double the current airport’s size and add 12 new boarding lounges. It will also feature an enhanced immigration zone.
The Al Maktoum International Airport, also known as Dubai World Central, is an airport in the southwest of the city. It is still under construction, but the first phase opened to the public on 27 June 2010. Once completed, the airport is expected to serve 160 to 260 million passengers each year, and will feature several other services for travelers. The airport will also have manufacturing and assembly facilities, as well as value-added services.
Earlier, the airport was to feature six parallel runways. In 2009, the runways were reduced to five. The passenger complex is positioned in the middle. In addition, each runway has extended asphalted pathways on both sides. This allows aircraft to bypass taxiways and runways to land. Once completed, the new airport is expected to be operational by 2030.
Once finished, the airport will process 260 million passengers per year and 15 million tonnes of cargo annually. This will allow it to meet passenger demand ahead of projections and set a standard for air travel around the world. It is expected to be the world’s busiest airport by 2050. The first phase of the expansion is expected to begin in March 2016. The new airport will feature new facilities in the departures hall, as well as concourses. By the time it opens, the entire facility will be larger than the existing airport in Dubai.
The project is estimated to cost $33bn. Consultants are currently submitting proposals for the new passenger terminal building. Contractors are also preparing bids for enabling works. During 2015, work on the project continued and concept studies were completed. The project was also given a review period, which allowed it to benefit from lower pricing. However, due to the fall in oil prices, the construction activity in the GCC region has slowed down.
Gotthard Base Tunnel
The Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland is the highest road tunnel in the world and is the most expensive. It stretches for 20 kilometers between Erstfeld and Sedrun and features galleries every 300 meters. It was constructed using a combination of concrete and BASF admixtures. The construction of a tunnel requires a high level of accuracy, because the downward pressure of the mountain compresses the tunnel structure by up to 70 centimeters. In addition, concrete needs to be flexible and remain workable for hours at a time, while also setting almost immediately once it has been sprayed onto a tunnel wall.
The Gotthard Base Tunnel was completed with the help of advanced technology. In mid-December 2013, a pilot section of the tunnel was opened for operation. This 13-kilometre-long section was equipped with the necessary railway systems and tunnel infrastructure. In June 2014, the pilot operation phase was completed, and the tunnel system was found to meet specifications. In October 2015, the entire tunnel will be open for operation, and it will be able to carry trains of up to 280 km/h. In December 2016, the tunnel will be fully opened, and it will be connected to the rest of Europe.
The Gotthard Base Tunnel is considered a revolution in the region surrounding it. It will enable rail travel between Zurich and Italy in just 40 minutes. It will skirt the towns of Zurich and Zug, as well as Vierwaldstaettersee and Altdorf, which are known for their world-famous Swiss army knives. With this tunnel, there is no need to worry about crowded trains. The tunnel will ensure smooth travel and save time.
In the meantime, the Gotthard Base Tunnel project will continue to collect indicators and deep-rooted analysis every third year. The project has been delayed by many years because of the recession and disagreement between tunnel proponents. However, the Swiss public voted to start construction after these obstacles were overcome. This work began in 1999, and the Alpine puncture was celebrated 15 years after the start of construction. This project involves blasting and drilling, with the use of giant tunnel boring machines.
The Gotthard Base Tunnel is the longest tunnel in the world. A total of 28 million tons of material were excavated to create it. A 450-meter long, 2,700-ton, 9.5-meter diameter tunnel boring machine was used to dig through the different layers of rock.
Study abroad opportunities
Study abroad programs are a great way to gain international experience while preparing for your career. Many programs offer coursework in a variety of fields, including residential, commercial, and heavy civil construction. Many also include instruction in facility management, project planning, logistics and cost control, and personnel management. Some programs focus on specific regions, such as India, while others offer an international perspective.
Students interested in pursuing a Masters in Architecture can attend programs in Europe, which focus on contemporary cities. There are many different opportunities available, including programs in France, England, China, and Israel. There are also internship programs abroad. Depending on the country, these programs often include one-on-one training with industry professionals and coursework.
Students interested in studying abroad should first identify the courses they would like to take. Once they have identified the courses they want to take abroad, they should meet with their Construction Management adviser to determine which of these courses will count towards their degree. Students should bring their transcripts, APSA forms, and course descriptions to the meeting. They should also gather information on any other courses they are interested in taking while abroad.
Students with an architecture major should consider studying abroad during their final two years of study. While this may be expensive, many universities offer scholarships to help with the cost of these programs. Taking a semester abroad in a new country will expand your perspective and help you become a better, more flexible designer.
Students may also enjoy meeting new friends in a different culture. While studying abroad, students can live with local students and develop lifelong friendships. These new friendships can be invaluable later in life. Study abroad programs can last for a semester or even a whole year. Study abroad opportunities in construction are available throughout the world.
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