Using precision to construct the foundation slab for the world's tallest building
Burj Khalifa Tower Raft Dubai
At a glance
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Construction
Emaar Properties
Build Only
Completed
Four precise and temperate-controlled concrete pours
Multiplex were appointed to commence the raft to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in May 2004. The skyscraper is a world-class destination and the magnificent centrepiece of Downtown Dubai, Dubai’s new urban masterpiece.
The building is encircled by hotels, shopping destinations and a plethora of entertainment options.
This challenging contract involved the construction of the foundation slab for the world’s tallest building in four segment pours. Each one extended over 30 hours, often in temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius, and totalled 12,600m3 of high-strength, self-compacting, 100-year durability concrete.
Multiplex’s responsibilities also included the intensive monitoring of concrete temperatures, settlement, load measurements and in-situ coring and testing. A mock-up of the full depth section of the raft, taking into consideration all monitoring requirements, was also performed.
Due to the extreme heat, Multiplex proposed a unique concrete design that ensured hydrating of concrete and temperatures were appropriately controlled.
- Architects & Engineers: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill