The construction of the Edgcote viaduct marks a significant advancement in the HS2 project, utilising innovative off-site manufacturing techniques.
- EKFB has embarked on assembling the 515m-long Edgcote viaduct in west Northamptonshire, employing a design that reduces carbon footprint.
- A modular approach has been adopted, inspired by Spain’s high-speed rail projects, to enhance efficiency and safety.
- Significant ecological considerations have been incorporated, creating new habitats that span 7.6 hectares.
- This construction technique promises to speed up progress and foster safer onsite working conditions.
EKFB’s commencement of the Edgcote viaduct assembly highlights a forward-thinking approach in civil engineering. The 515m-long viaduct, which forms part of the HS2 rail route, utilises off-site manufacturing for its major structural components, a method proven at the Thame Valley viaduct. This approach has enabled a reduction in the carbon footprint, an integral part of the UK’s sustainable infrastructure initiatives.
The viaduct’s design was revamped in the previous year, mirroring the methodology applied at the Thame Valley viaduct. By utilising lighter materials such as pre-cast concrete and steel manufactured off-site, there’s a notable 13% reduction in carbon emissions, which equates to 360 tonnes less embodied carbon. This thoughtful design not only conserves resources but signifies a pivotal shift towards more eco-friendly construction practices.
The Edgcote viaduct will traverse the floodplain of the River Cherwell, supported by 20 pairs of pre-cast concrete piers each standing 6m to 8m high. These piers, which incorporate steel reinforcing rods, are meticulously installed into pre-prepared sleeves within the pile caps, then sealed with grout. The simplicity of using two larger ‘U’ shaped beams per span, as opposed to the traditional five, enhances structural integrity while expediting the construction timeline.
Drawing inspiration from Spanish high-speed rail models, the streamlined modular design considerably cuts down on the embedded carbon, catering to both environmental sustainability and construction efficiency. Collaborative efforts between EKFB, Typsa, FC Civils Solutions, and architects Moxon underscore the importance of innovative partnerships in achieving project goals.
Additionally, the project emphasizes environmental stewardship with the introduction of two new wildlife habitats where the viaduct intersects the floodplain. This 7.6-hectare initiative aims to enrich biodiversity, supporting various species such as insects, bats, and amphibians. This ecological enhancement aligns with broader conservation goals, reflecting a balanced approach between infrastructure development and nature preservation.
Senior managers from HS2 Ltd and EKFB conveyed their satisfaction with the project’s progress, underscoring the advantages of the redesigned viaduct structure. Quoting HS2 Ltd’s project manager, Suhel Uddin, “The two-beam approach…boosts efficiency and improves safety on site by reducing the amount of working at height.” The sentiment was echoed by EKFB’s Dalvier Chana, who commended the quality of precast piers in fostering time-efficient delivery.
From FC Civils Solutions’ perspective, Deputy Project Director Jonatan Gomez highlighted the pride in contributing to HS2’s success through inventive, efficient, and sustainable solutions. The first pier installation marks a significant milestone, symbolising a strategic investment in advanced construction methodologies.
The Edgcote viaduct project signifies a remarkable blend of innovation, efficiency, and environmental consideration, setting a new benchmark for future infrastructure projects.
