Skanska: Sustainable Building Construction with Sensor Technology
May 13, 2024
Introduction
In the bustling heart of Washington, D.C., the construction of the 17xM Project, a 334,000 square foot mixed-use development, posed unique challenges and opportunities for innovation. Skanska, a global leader in construction, partnered with Sensytec to integrate advanced sensor technology into the project. This case study explores how this strategic collaboration led to significant advancements in construction efficiency, sustainability, and quality assurance for the landmark project.
Challenges in Urban Construction
The 17xM Project, located in a densely populated urban area, required meticulous planning and execution to minimize disruption and maximize efficiency. Skanska faced several critical challenges:
- Ensuring Rapid Construction Pace: The project demanded accelerated construction timelines to meet tight deadlines and reduce impact on the surrounding community.
- Maintaining High Quality Standards: Achieving and demonstrating compliance with strict quality standards for concrete was essential for the project’s structural integrity and longevity.
- Sustainability Goals: Skanska aimed to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction process, aligning with broader environmental sustainability objectives.
Sensytec's Solution
Sensytec’s sensor technology provided Skanska with a comprehensive solution to address these challenges effectively:
- Real-Time Compressive Strength Data: By deploying sensors within the concrete mix, Skanska gained immediate insights into the material’s compressive strength, enabling faster decision-making and progress.
- Reduced Need for Conventional Testing: The accuracy and reliability of sensor data allowed Skanska to reduce conventional cylinder testing by 50%, streamlining the quality assurance process and saving resources.
- Accelerated Post-Tensioning Operations: The precise, real-time data facilitated a 50% acceleration in post-tensioning operations, a crucial phase in the construction of the mixed-use building.
Realized Benefits
- Expedited Construction Timeline: The integration of Sensytec’s sensors played a pivotal role in expediting the overall construction process, ensuring the 17xM Project was completed efficiently and within the desired timeframe.
- Enhanced Quality Assurance: The real-time data provided by the sensors ensured that concrete used in the project met all required standards, enhancing the building’s safety and durability.
- Sustainability Impact: By reducing the reliance on conventional cylinder testing and optimizing material use, Skanska significantly reduced the carbon footprint associated with the construction of the 17xM Project.
Sustainability and Efficiency in Construction
The collaboration between Sensytec and Skanska on the 17xM Project underscores the transformative potential of sensor technology in the construction industry. The ability to monitor concrete’s compressive strength in real-time not only optimized the construction process but also contributed to environmental sustainability efforts by reducing waste and emissions.
Conclusion
The 17xM Project stands as a testament to the power of innovation in construction. Sensytec’s sensor technology enabled Skanska to achieve a faster, more efficient, and sustainable construction process, setting a new benchmark for future projects. This case study highlights the importance of embracing technological advancements to meet the evolving demands of construction in urban environments and beyond.