SATEBA UK were awarded the contract to deliver innovative, modular design green tunnels for the HS2 high-speed rail project, in a move to cut 50% of embedded carbon in construction.
Part of this would be achieved by using offsite manufacturing techniques and part due to the segments being lighter, using less concrete and steel than traditional tunnel segments, resulting in a lower carbon product.
Designed as a double arch, the tunnel has two separate halves for southbound and northbound trains. Instead of the whole tunnel being cast on site, five different concrete precast segments are slotted together to achieve the double arch – one central pier, two side walls and two roof slabs.
Construction requires less people and equipment on site, improving safety and reducing disruption for residents.
SATEBA UK have worked in close collaboration with designers, production, quality control, logistics and installation teams to ensure every single unit that leaves the Stanton site is to precise specification and handled appropriately. Each unit even has its own passport to ensure the technical background, quality management and traceability are visible.
