Byldis Prefab is making a special element for Heidelbergcement head office

Byldis delivered the last precast elements for the premises of Heidelbergcement in Germany last Saturday.
The canopy element of the entrance to the building is very special in terms of its shape. It is not standard and is thus another great example of the endless possibilities of precast in terms of shape and colour.
We’d love to tell you more about how we make such special elements. How does it actually happen?

The steps are as follows:

1: Design

The architect takes care of the main shape of the canopy element. Byldis Engineering then further develops the canopy element so that it is technically feasible in terms of production. The mould for the canopy element is made from this model (production time mould approx. 10 weeks). Calculations are made to ensure the correct reinforcement is used. Finally, a test element is made from this design. If the test is successful, we get to work on producing the definite elements.

2: Reinforcement

Manufacture of the reinforcement net is a real challenge for a shape like the canopy elements. In order to produce the reinforcement net, the test element is used as a mould. Only when the reinforcement net has been correctly placed in the mould, is the concrete cast. The reinforcement ensures the stability of the element.

3: Concrete

Once the reinforcement net and other components have been placed in the mould, the concrete is cast. After 16 hours of drying, the element is lifted out and placed in the workshop. These elements are then transported to the construction site and put into place!

Read more about the Heidelbergcement project here.