Hilti Switzerland develops support system for new KSB building
Hilti Switzerland has used a new type of fastening concept for the first time for the new building of the Baden Cantonal Hospital (KSB). This allows all companies involved in the construction to work together right from the start.
According to a press release,Hilti Switzerland has “developed a coordinated, cross-trade fastening technology specifically for the new hospital in collaboration with the Baden Cantonal Hospital(KSB) and the planners, engineers and contractors involved, which all companies were able to work with right from the start”.
It represents progress in the construction industry and could be used in other highly complex construction projects in the future, which also have to fulfil high technical requirements in terms of earthquake safety and fire protection. “We are not only achieving a technically and economically sophisticated solution, but also the safest and therefore most sustainable one,” says Marco Lüthi, project engineer for hospital construction at the Swiss representative of Hilti AG in Schaan, based in Adliswil.
The new concept is intended for multi-storey buildings. The pioneering achievement consists of a holistic approach, they say. The joint solution puts an end to a common practice whereby each company designed and installed its own fixings and substructures. The isolated approach had made the processes inefficient.
Thanks to the multiple bracket developed by Hilti, the heating, plumbing, ventilation, air conditioning and electrical trades were able to work together from the outset. This resulted in 60 per cent fewer fixing points (drill holes) and 50 per cent fewer cuts and items. Prefabrication and the elimination of separate brackets meant that the building services companies needed almost 50 per cent less time for installation. The use of lifting platforms, ladders and scaffolding was also reduced, thus minimising the risk of injury for construction workers. Sustainability has also benefited: In comparison with conventional fastening systems, 50 per cent of CO2 was saved.
The new KSB building is expected to cost 580 million and is scheduled to go into operation in autumn 2024.