Real estate brokerage Union Square House (USH) has stated that a quarter of homebuyers in Dubai are on the hunt for living spaces that provide mental health benefits. Living spaces and amenities that bolster mental health include spa-inspired bathrooms, freestanding bathtubs, meditation corners, indoor plants and fixtures, outdoor spaces, layouts which let in more natural light and fit-for-purpose residential communities, the firm announced.

According to a statement, developers and facilities management firms play a key role through the upkeep of common areas, which represent essential convening venues for the community to celebrate gatherings and engage in fun activities.

According to a recent study about work-life balance conducted by mobile tech company Kisi, Dubai residents are among the most overworked in the world. As a result, stress levels tend to be higher, which makes finding a healing place in a home a necessity, the statement said.

“The last two years have been tough on all of us. Apart from work-related challenges, our living spaces may have a direct impact on our mental health. In the wake of the pandemic, the correlation between a home and stress levels can’t be overlooked,” said Gaurav Aidasani, Founder & Managing Director, Union Square House.

Homebuyers in Dubai are increasingly pursuing thoughtful layouts and wellness-focused designs. Over the past couple of years, a new form of demand for living spaces that aim to enhance positive emotions and reduce depression emerged. Developers are now taking note of this trend to optimise living space for health and mental wellness, the firm outlined.

Aidasani added, “Finding the right home to ease the mental health burden extends beyond the living space itself. Homebuyers need to find the right community first. Many of us envisage owning a home in a friendly, serene community with parks, play areas, gyms and pools. Being part of a lively neighbourhood has moved up the homebuyer’s agenda thanks to a prevailing work-from-home lifestyle calling for greener communities where people can spend their times joyfully. However, singles or couples may prefer living in the bustling city centre. Therefore, it is important to pick a community that suits you based on what a perfect home personally means to you. You must live in a community where you feel a sense of belonging.”

When identifying the right community, homebuyers should also consider ease of access. Some communities in Dubai suffer from traffic congestion. Time spent coming in and going out of a residence can have an impact on mental health. Factoring in proximity of a home to key facilities is also important. Short distances to points of interest such as schools, hospitals, retail outlets, leisure facilities, beauty centres and restaurants can make life easier, hence reducing stress levels, the firm concluded.

In recent years, developers have stepped up their focus on launching developments that boost mental health. In March 2022, Majid Al Futtaim Communities launched Elysian at Tilal Al Ghaf, which the firm said is designed for idyllic living. In April 2022, the Middle East’s first five-star wellness retreat opened and in April, the Green Riyadh project began the afforestation of neighborhoods in the city, as part of a Saudi-wise push towards wellbeing.

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Source: ME Construction News

Sustainable ways of living improve the quality of our lives, safeguard our ecosystem, and preserve our natural resources for future generations. In addition, sustainability is key in developing a holistic built environment. As construction continues to be a significant component of growth for global economies, developers, contractors, governments, and other stakeholders need to develop and incorporate solutions that make it green.

A report by the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) stated that there are currently only 500 net-zero commercial buildings and 2,000 net-zero homes around the globe (which is under 1% of all buildings worldwide). The UAE has launched the 2050 Net-Zero strategic initiative, a national drive to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050, making the country the first in the region. While there is a long way to go, there is a lot more the industry can do collectively to be on the path to achieving it.

Furthermore, according to reports, over $10tn is spent globally per year on construction-related activities – and that’s projected to keep growing yearly by 4.2% until 2023. With that in mind, here are some of the sustainability and construction trends for 2022 and beyond:

Advanced Technology

Technology has clearly embedded itself into many construction processes. The potential impact of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, computer visioning, and modelling can phenomenally drive the industry towards sustainable construction. For example, IoT can collect specific information about materials, equipment, or building part and provide live data related to sustainability that can be harnessed with AI and Modelling to evaluate, visualise, compare, make decisions, and/or predict scenarios.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is another aspect of technology that the sector is consistently using. Using BIM data and simulation tools over the whole project lifecycle enables less wasteful construction and more cost-effective, sustainable operation, maintenance, and eventual decommissioning.

Furthermore, the Digital Twin concept is gaining more and more prominence. It refers to the consolidation of data representing a physical object, in this case, a building site or the building itself (either in construction or already built). This pairing of the virtual and physical worlds allows data analysis and monitoring systems to understand and target problems before they occur, prevent downtime, develop new opportunities, and even plan for the future by using simulations. Digital Twin technology can also help improve the sustainability of buildings by enhancing the productivity and efficiency of the assets or ensuring buildings meet sustainability, efficiency, or regulatory requirements.

Modular Construction

A report by McKinsey stated that modular construction offers the industry an opportunity to shift many aspects of building activity away from traditional construction sites and into factories with off-site, manufacturing-style production. However, not a new technology, modular or prefabricated construction, has seen major technological improvements and upgrades coupled with growing demands and changing mindsets making it an attractive investment for corporates and governments.

Modular construction has evolved significantly due to using various planning and application technologies and incorporating sustainable building materials, contributing to faster turnaround times and economic advantages. Modular construction plays a major role in making the construction sector more sustainable as it reduces waste thanks to the controlled environment it introduces. Additionally, prefabricating buildings off-site will reduce carbon emissions often generated on large construction sites due to lorry traffic and reliance on unsustainable power generators. The method also delivers efficient, versatile, and high-performing buildings, which can be reused multiple times.

Innovative Materials

Can construction materials be greener? This question can potentially be answered by the wonder of some existing innovative materials, one of which is called graphene. Although not too highly used in commercial construction, Graphene possesses strong qualities to support green construction materials. Technically, it is a one atom thick carbon layer but 200 times stronger than steel, transparent, flexible, highly conductive both thermally and electrically.

According to research, graphene has the potential to transform the built environment. For example, graphene has been incorporated into traditional concrete production by scientists, developing a composite material. The method of incorporating graphene produces a high yield of concrete without defects and could be used directly on building sites, enabling the construction of sustainable and strong buildings using less concrete and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

While the material is already used in sportswear and equipment, making tennis rackets and footwear lighter and more durable, its usage in commercial construction has been minimal. However, it was reported in 2020 that the UAE has been closely following its progress, with an investment from Abu Dhabi’s renewable conglomerate – Masdar making a substantial investment into an international innovation centre dedicated to graphene.

Smart Retrofitting

One of the biggest sustainability concerns in the construction industry is the rise of new developments. Smart retrofitting existing building is one of the most important contributors in the built environment to combat this. As part of its commitment to the betterment of the environment, the UAE is taking significant steps in making it more sustainable. The country has set high targets for building retrofit, which are reflected in the UAE Energy Strategy 2050.

Furthermore, the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy has set the goal of reducing Dubai’s energy demand by 30% by 2030, and retrofitting existing buildings is an integral part of the strategy.  For sustainable development, the private sector must work with the government and semi-government companies to ensure these practices are followed.

Initiatives that encourage a sustainable built environment need the combined effort from all parties. Studies have shown that deep renovation can be the preferred solution rather than superficial renovations from an economic and ecological perspective. Superficial renovations enhance the risk of missing the climate targets and huge absolute savings to remain untapped. Studies have also shown refurbishment’s potential to upgrade the building stock’s energy efficiency and the consequent savings in CO2 emissions. Retrofitting is a game-changer in modernising buildings to save the environment.

Modern-day construction is and should be about impacting the environment positively. Sustainability should not be a choice but a necessity across the globe. From making greener material choices to supporting sustainable use of available inventory – the Built Environment can be a game-changing sector to support efficiency and net-zero goals.

Read more about sustainable construction:

• Zeroing in on Net Zero
• Making sense of the green agenda in real estate – Is ambition matched by reality?
• Taking green building mainstream: The top ten biggest trends in sustainable construction

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Source: ME Construction News

Dar Al Arkan has commenced construction works, including excavation, shoring, and piling works, on its W Residences Dubai – Downtown project. The developer said the $272.25mn development is already sold out and will mark the first standalone residences in the world under the W Hotels brand.

The commencement comes 90 days after the launch of the project in February 2022. The developer added that it signed a contract with Stromek Emirates Foundations to execute the shoring, excavation and piling works. BHNS Engineering Consultants is the Architect of Records, sand the firm will supervise the construction of the enabling package.

Ziad El Chaar, Vice Chairman of Dar Al Arkan Properties, said: “Construction of The W Residences Dubai – Downtown is estimated to be completed by December 2025. This our third project in the Downtown Dubai area after Urban Oasis with Interiors by Missoni and Davinci Tower with interiors by Pagani.”

“I believe it’s a unique and fulfilling location to own your dream W branded home and our proposition catering to the needs of discerning clientele. Our experience in delivering high-end co-branded homes with global brands like Elie Saab, Versace, Roberto Cavalli, Pagani and Missoni puts us in a unique position to always bring the best, most desirable residential spaces to our customers,” he added.

Dar Al Arkan is one of the largest publicly listed developers in the Middle East with USD$8.71bn in assets and a track record of delivery since 1994.

The Residences are 20 mins away from Dubai International Airport, 10 minutes from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and a few minutes away from The Dubai Mall.

In April 2022, the developer topped out its $218mn Urban Oasis residential tower in Dubai, while in March, it unveiled a $1.5bn mixed use project in Muscat, Oman.

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Source: ME Construction News

The North American market is key for DAMAC in the near and medium term according to Senior Vice President Niall McLoughlin, in an exclusive conversation with Middle East Construction News (MECN).

“The company’s consistent success over the years, and more recently on the tailwinds of Dubai’s stellar economic performance and forecast, has propelled DAMAC to eye various global opportunities for development and growth,” McLoughlin notes.

“Recently, we bought land in the upscale neighbourhood of Surfside in Miami Florida, where we plan to build a Cavalli-branded condominium project. The DAMAC name and brand has been well established here in the UAE and the region, but globally more and more people are taking notice, and we are always eyeing opportunities for joint ventures abroad. North America will be a key target of ours in the near and medium term,” explains McLoughlin.

He adds, “We’re also developing a luxury resort in the Maldives to be operated by global hotel brand Mandarin International, and already have projects in Canada, the UK and the Middle East.”

McLoughlin says the firm discovered branded associations help bolster its appeal and visibility in global markets. “Those who have never heard of DAMAC are getting to know us through our collaborations with well-established brands such as Cavalli, Versace, De Grisogono, Mandarin International etc, and they like what they see.”

Discussing the Middle East region and the UAE, McLoughlin says the developer intends to build on its success and has launched several new projects in recent times.

He states, “We’re responsibly launching new products. Late last year, we launched our Cavalli Tower, a beach-facing 70-storey skyscraper of sheer luxury overlooking the beautiful Palm Jumeirah, with ultra-luxury interiors branded by Italian fashion powerhouse Roberto Cavalli. We also launched DAMAC Lagoons, our third master community in Dubai. Located adjacent to the DAMAC Hills community, DAMAC Lagoons aims to transport residents into an enchanting paradise comprising eight majestic cities, inspired by countries based on the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.”

In April 2022, the developer awarded a $136mn contract for Damac Lagoons development to Shapoorji Pallonji for the project’s main works.

“This year we launched a one-of-its-kind twin-tower development, Safa One de GRISOGONO – ‘The Nature of Luxury’ in Safa Park. With a design that resonates with the pulse of Swiss jeweller de GRISOGONO, the project is situated on the edge of Safa Park, with incomparable views of the Dubai Canal on one side and the bustling Sheikh Zayed Road on the other.”

Sharing his thoughts on the UAE property market specifically, McLoughlin is quick to point out that the sector is performing beyond expectations.

“Europeans are becoming top investors in Dubai’s real estate sector. Through economic and social reforms, the UAE is becoming an increasingly attractive place to live, and more and more skilled professionals want to make the UAE their home. The UAE property market continues to break records for sales and transactions and this upward trajectory is expected to continue this year owing to visa reforms and economic stability.”

He concludes, “Government incentives such as sweeping economic and social reforms, the new green residence visa, and broadening eligibility criteria for the golden visa, is encouraging more and more foreign investment and the real estate sector is reaping these benefits. The boom in Dubai’s prime residential market has led to prices rising almost 60% in the past 12 months, driven by growing interest from international investors with a great interest in high-ticket items.”

In March 2022, S&P Global upgrades DAMAC rating as the developer returned to growth. Later in the month, the firm also announced completion of roof slab works on its Zada Tower project.

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Source: ME Construction News

Developer Ithra Dubai has announced that sales of One Za’abeel’s One&Only Private Homes and The Residences have begun.

One Za’abeel Tower offers 94 One&Only Private Homes for sale, a statement said, adding that these units will offer upscale private residential sanctuaries, while The Residences will house 264 apartments with a strategic location and lavish facilities. The residences for sale include one, two, three, and four-bedroom simplexes and duplexes and a five-bedroom penthouse.

“Reflecting the architecture, design, and lifestyle elements for which One&Only is celebrated, One&Only Private Homes offer unparalleled access to the luxury hospitality collection’s world-class resorts, in addition to a series of exclusive benefits,” the statement said.

“Available for lease in this mixed-use masterpiece is deluxe office space covering an area of 26,000sqm and three floors of retail space, F&B, and leisure experiences at the Podium, covering an area of 12,000sqm,” it added.

Issam Galadari, Director and CEO of Ithra Dubai

One Za’abeel, is a multi-award-winning mixed-use development, including the prestigious Big Project ME Project of the Year Award. In February 2021, contractor ALEC announced the top out of Tower B, while Tower A was topped out in April 2021.

Strategically located in the heart of the city, at the intersection of Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road and its commercial business district, One Za’abeel is the gateway to Dubai International Financial District, close to Dubai World Trade Centre, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai International Airport. It is also the world’s longest cantilevered building.

Suspended perpendicularly across the two towers at a height of around 100m and weighing 13,000 tonnes, The Link will host several experiences and will include entertainment venues, dining with celebrity chefs, an infinity pool, an observation deck with 360˚views of Dubai, and a glass-floor experience.

“With its mesmerising architecture, central location, and exceptional mix of offerings, One Za’abeel is an exceptional place to live, work, and spend leisure time in one of Dubai’s most desirable addresses, a true reflection of Dubai’s ambitious spirit,” said Issam Galadari, Director and CEO of Ithra Dubai.

In line with the UAE’s Net Zero target for 2050, the development aims to achieve the highest standards of sustainability, as it implements the Gold LEED certification requirements in its design and functionality.

Apart from One Za’abeel, Ithra Dubai is also engaged with the Deira Enrichment project. In April 2022, the Dubai Gold Souq Extension was launched by Ithra Dubai.

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Source: ME Construction News

The developer of Vortex training simulators, CM Labs Simulations, has issued a new software release for its construction simulator training packs. This new release is designed to boost trainee engagement by featuring heightened visuals, greater training immersion, and increased learning retention.

The company says it can help achieve faster, more efficient results in operator skills development, further reducing the gap between classroom training and the worksite.

The new release can be experienced across CM Labs’ fleet of construction and forestry training packs. The lifting simulations include the luffing tower crane, flat-top tower crane, crawler crane, rough terrain crane, boom truck, and forklift. The earthmoving simulations consist of the excavator, dozer, wheel loader, backhoe, and motor grader. The forester and harvester make up the forestry simulation training packs.

“The current boom in construction jobs is highlighting the importance of closing the skills gap,” says Lisa Barbieri, Vice President of Marketing & Product Management at CM Labs. “That’s why we are focused on providing the most immersive learning experience to deliver the world’s best training outcomes.”

Greater focus is being put on training and safety in recent years. Machinery rental specialist Johnson Arabia spoke to Construction Machinery Middle East about its safety efforts recently. A VR simulation and training system was also implemented at a Dubai Municipality sewage facility in February 2022 to boost efficiency and safety.

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Source: ME Construction News

Nine generators equipped with Volvo Penta D16 engines will power Sweden Rock Festival this week using 100% hydro-treated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel. The move is said to bolster the credentials of a festival that is known not just for its mix of hard rock, metal and blues but also for its longstanding environmentally conscious philosophy.

The 16-litre power generation engines are responsible for powering and lighting the festival’s five stages from June 8-11, ensuring the 35,000 visitors can see and hear all performances – including headline act Guns N’ Roses.

Volvo Penta combustion engines have been able to run on HVO fuel – neat or blended with conventional diesel, since 2016 when Volvo Penta approved its use, enabling a reduction of CO2 emissions by up to 90%. Although Volvo Penta engines do not need any type of approval or specific certification for HVO usage, the decision to use HVO fuel was based on extensive field testing and endorsement of HVO for on-road use by sister company Volvo Trucks, part of the Volvo Group.

HVO is a renewable, paraffinic fuel, also known as synthetic diesel. In, the Nordics, the source of HVO stems largely from forestry waste. A significant number of customers, particularly in the Nordic countries, are now using HVO with Volvo Penta engines.

“The sustainability of Sweden Rock is crucial,” said Anders Östensson, Sustainability Coordinator at Sweden Rock Festival. “We are always looking for solutions that help us to consume less energy and improve our carbon footprint, so being able to power the Volvo Penta engines on HVO instead of diesel is a big win for us. This change will have a big impact – half of the festival’s electricity will be supplied by these generators. It’s amazing when we find partners that can help us make a difference.”

Volvo Penta’s D16 engine puts out 650kVA and 520kW of power. The nine gensets have a combined maximum capacity of 4.2MW.

In 2018, Volvo Penta announced its intention to offer electric power systems by 2021 and, in June 2020, the firm appointed Helene Mellquist as president.

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Source: ME Construction News

The next phase of The Red Sea Project’s Multimodal Operational Readiness Plan has been unveiled by WSP Middle East. The move comes as momentum shifts to embedding new mobility solutions within the Saudi tourism destination.

With a view to inspiring uptake from the worlds and the region’s top mobility operators, this phase involves expressions of interest from operators to supply and operate transportation modes across three modal packages throughout the project – in addition to one package for a Mobility Operations Manager – as it prepares to open to guests in early 2023, the statement from WSP said.

The consultancy said the latest step in the project’s sustainable mobility journey follows the creation of a blueprint for decarbonised future mobility to help enable sustainable, seamless journeys for guests, employees and logistics to the flagship tourism destination.

WSP pointed out that its advisory and mobility experts are currently engaged in helping The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) identify land, sea and air transport requirements for the development and its operations, underpinned by the latest advances in green mobility.

Andreas Flourou, Executive Director, Operations – Mobility at TRSDC

“The Red Sea is the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism project. The destination is on track to be powered solely by 100% renewable solar energy, saving upwards of 500,000 tons of CO2 entering the atmosphere every year. As such, we’ve set out to be equally ambitious in our mobility operations and are seeking the very best industry partners to help us in realising this vision. Our portfolio of projects on the Red Sea coast is expanding, least of all with the equally ground-breaking AMAALA, and as such, the partnership opportunity could be extensive for first movers,” said Andreas Flourou, Executive Director, Operations – Mobility at TRSDC.

Kathleen McGrail, Managing Director – Advisory Services at WSP Middle East added, “As a regionally renowned trusted advisor with global scale, WSP Middle East is proud to be playing a pivotal role in empowering The Red Sea Project’s vision for smart and sustainable transportation. By successfully binding the worlds of technical and advisory together, our distinctive capabilities in the mobility arena are enabling us to assist TRSDC with the operationalisation of its mobility strategy, as well as help champion the step change required to bring world-class, Future Ready solutions to the fore in the Kingdom.”

“In line with TRSDC’s aspirations to be Net Zero, our goal is to set the benchmark for safe, smart, sustainable journeys which elevate The Red Sea Project as the world’s foremost regenerative tourism destination,” she said. Middle East Consultant recently spoke to McGrail about WSP’s advisory business, market trends and challenges.

The creation of a bespoke, first-of-a-kind mobility operating model for The Red Sea Project – which considers unique development and operational strategies for megaprojects in Saudi Arabia – will balance efficiency of operations and commercial viability, while attracting globally-renowned operators to ultimately provide a world-class service throughout The Red Sea Project, the statement said.

Kathleen McGrail, Managing Director – Advisory Services at WSP Middle East

Noor Hajir, Head of Transport Planning & Mobility at WSP Middle East remarked, “WSP is proud to be a trusted advisor assisting TRSDC to develop a resilient mobility implementation model that can be scaled to accommodate the phased approach of The Red Sea Project and used as a benchmark for future projects across the Kingdom.”

“As the first Private Investment Fund (PIF) project expected to open its doors to tourists, a project of this calibre requires regional and international mobility operators to come onboard and showcase their niche, innovative approaches towards facilitating clean mobility solutions and high calibre service that elevates the guest experience,” remarked Hajir.

Since The Red Sea and AMAALA are sustainable tourism projects, there is a high demand for electric vehicles at both destinations. Once complete, The Red Sea and AMAALA fleets will boast approximately 800 electric vehicles for guest transportation, a further 450 electric buses for staff, and more than 300 electric vehicles for logistics.

Going green in mobility will not only support The Red Sea and AMAALA with their carbon neutrality goals but will further support Saudi Arabia’s ambition to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, the statement outlined.

Noor Hajir, Head of Transport Planning & Mobility at WSP Middle East

“With The Red Sea Development Company rapidly expanding its portfolio of projects along the Red Sea coast, coupled with the delivery of several other giga-projects in the Kingdom, there is a real first mover advantage for those willing to navigate the complexities of entering a new market and the associated challenges,” concluded Flourou.

In April, TRSDC and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority inked a deal focused on innovation in smart technology, and, in May, Marriott and TRSDC signed a deal to debut the Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand in the region.

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Source: ME Construction News

Daikin Middle East and Africa has unveiled a solar plant at its headquarters in Dubai, in line with its push to achieve Net Zero by 2050. The project was delivered through a solar lease with UAE-based sustainable energy provider Yellow Door Energy.

The plant has a capacity of 515 kilowatt-peak (kWp) and is expected to generate 826,000kw-hours of clean electricity in the first year of operation. Close to 1,000 solar panels have been installed on the roof of Daikin’s facility, meeting more than 80% of the energy consumption needs, the firm said.

“Congratulations to Daikin on this milestone towards Net Zero emissions. Yellow Door Energy is honored to support your Environmental Vision 2050 and we look forward to operating and maintaining the solar plant for many years to come. As a UAE-based solar developer, it is our humble privilege to contribute towards the UAE’s Clean Energy Strategy and Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative,” said Rory McCarthy, Chief Commercial Officer of Yellow Door Energy.

With the company’s aim to reduce environmental impact across all business activities and contribute to alleviating climate change, the headquarter in Dubai’s JAFZA features the latest product solutions promoted across the region, including a chiller, smart VRV, AHU, FCU, and BMS systems, the firm pointed out.

The entire HVAC system is highly efficient, ecologically friendly, energy-saving, and comes with comprehensive energy control capabilities. Daikin’s partnership with Yellow Door Energy is the next step towards achieving the company regional sustainability goals, the release said.

Masaaki Miyatake, Chairman and President of Daikin Middle East and Africa remarked, “As a global leader in sustainable HVAC-R solutions, we at Daikin embed sustainability in all our business practices. We believe that it is our responsibility to promote efficient systems to save energy and provide high IAQ levels through our several products offerings and solutions. The solar plant at our Dubai facility will help support us in our sustainability journey by reducing carbon emissions by over 300 tonnes annually, which is in line with Dubai’s Carbon Abatement Strategy 2030. Furthermore, with the solar lease from Yellow Door Energy, we aim to reduce our electricity costs and advance towards our target of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.”

As the solar lease provider, Yellow Door Energy is responsible for financing, designing, building, commissioning, operating, and maintaining the solar plant during the lease term. By working with solar developers, businesses can reduce their energy costs without any upfront investment or operational risk, while maintaining focus on their core business and enjoying the benefits of clean energy, the statement said. In May 2021, Yellow Door Energy was awarded a solar contract for The Box Self Storage facility.

The HQ facility in JAFZA was launched in H2 of 2019 as part of plans to boost business in the MEA region, and in an interview with MECN in January 2020, the firm said energy efficient technologies will lead the GCC HVAC-R industry.

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Source: ME Construction News

Chinese manufacturer XCMG has introduced a super-scale tower to meet increasing demand for large-scale modular bridge construction development. The XGT15000-600S, which was developed jointly by XCMG (SHE:000425) and China Major Bridge Engineering Co., Ltd. (MBEC) is the world’s largest tower crane, the manufacturer has claimed.

The super tower crane will be used for mega-scale bridge construction projects including heavy lifting components, high working heights and wide construction ranges. Examples of this work can be seen in the construction of Changtai Yangtze River Bridge (the world’s largest diamond-type cable-stayed bridge) and the Chao-Ma railway bridge of the Ma’anshan Yangtze River Bridge (for both railway and highway).

“Through a decade of continuous exploration and development, XCMG has successfully created the XGT15000-600S super-tower crane with over 60 core technology breakthroughs. We have achieved 10 world firsts and set 10 world records. The weight of the tower crane is 4,000 tonnes, and that’s the equivalent of 100 regular tower cranes,” said Wang Min, Chairman, and CEO of XCMG.

The XGT15000-600S was crafted based on the S-series tower crane and adopts the combined design of a flat head main tower, boom auxiliary tower and manned elevator. It can lift to a height of 93.5m independently and over 400m with an attachment.

In March 2019, the firm said the Middle East, Africa and SE Asian markets were targeted for new crane launches, while in June 2020, the firm partnered with Cummins to build an electric excavator prototype. Earlier this month, Manitowoc launched a new version of its Potain MCT 565 for short-jib applications.

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Source: ME Construction News