Steel Fiber Concrete Innovations Below the Surface!

The underground offers the space which mostly is not available anymore on the surface. Urban traffic is saturated, and rapid mass transport is only possible with a good underground metro network. 

Service utilities require a dense network of pipes bringing fresh water into the cities and a dense network of sewers to evacuate the wastewater to the water treatment stations. Communication, being the main characteristic of our present world community, needs an extensive network of cables and service stations. The required space is only available underground.

Development of modern tunnelling techniques, construction materials and skilled mining people have highly influenced the attractiveness of the underground construction technology.

Exploring diverse applications in underground: navigating the parameters for selecting the perfect fiber match.

Segmental lining

Segmental lining

The utilization of reinforced precast concrete in tunnels is a rapidly expanding application of this material, and numerous tunnels worldwide have already been constructed using Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (FRC) segments. The incorporation of Dramix high-performance fibers offers several key advantages in precast tunnel segments: 

• Enhanced control over cracking during construction phases. 

• Increased impact resistance. 

• Improved durability in the final stage. 

• Cost reduction benefits. 

• Sustainability advantages. 

• Streamlined production processes.

Temporary shotcrete (spray concrete) lining

Temporary shotcrete (spray concrete) lining

Temporary sprayed concrete lining stabilize the opening, control the deformation required to mobilize the ground inherent strength after excavation and contain short to medium-term loads. Dramix steel fibers have been at the forefront of fiber technology, completely replacing traditional mesh reinforcement and continuing to be the optimal solution for meeting safety, structural, and sustainability criteria.

Permanent spray concrete lining

Permanent spray concrete lining

The process of Sprayed Concrete Lining involves layering shotcrete onto the tunnel's surface, ensuring stabilization and creating a durable tunnel lining.

PSCLs will have a positive impact on the sustainability of underground spaces and increase their viability and potential uses

Dramix is the perfect choice for permanent linings

Cast-in-place linings

Cast-in-place linings

Historically, tunnels constructed using sprayed concrete have been based on 1) Temporary sprayed concrete lining to stabilize the opening after excavation and to contain short to medium-term loads 2) A waterproof membrane is placed next between the temporary and permanent linings.  After the temporary lining has fully stabilized, a permanent cast in-place (CIP) concrete lining is installed to contain long-term loads and provide durability and watertightness. For meeting all requirements for the CIP lining, Dramix stands as the ideal choice.

Other applications

Other applications

Dramix steel fibers can find applications in various structures, including but not limited to: side walls, shaft slip form lining, diaphragm walls and foundations.