Western Australia’s METRONET project has marked a significant milestone in construction innovation by improving the handling of thousands of large precast panels.
The NEWest Alliance – CPB Contractors, DT Infrastructure, and the state’s Public Transport Authority (PTA) – has pioneered the use of precast panel rotators on the Thornlie-Cockburn Link of the project.
Traditionally, large precast concrete panels are lifted by cranes that rotate them mid-air, required safety management and logistical efforts, but a rethink by NEWest Alliance resulted in the investment of two purpose-built rotators.
The introduction of these rotators streamlined operations and significantly reduced manual handling risks and crane time. Using the rotators enabled the large noise wall panels to be transported flat around site and rotated under their own weight in a controlled environment.
To date, 5000 panels have been installed along seven kilometres of rail corridor using the rotators, according to CPB Contractors, which led to improved productivity, enhanced safety, and reduced costs.
The Thornlie-Cockburn Link is now open and is Perth’s first east-west rail line connection, servicing the city’s south-eastern suburbs.
About the author
Desi Corbett
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Desi is the Editor of Concrete in Australia, at the helm since December 2013, and our weekly news writer since 2016. Focused on concrete and construction for more than 11 years, her expertise in this field forms part of a journalism career spanning three decades. To get in touch please email desi@corbettcomms.com