A recent Radio NZ article titled “More questions over Auckland skyscraper project’s building standards” was an interesting read for the […]
A recent Radio NZ article titled “More questions over Auckland skyscraper project’s building standards” was an interesting read for the CSI team this week. The article discusses the doubt that has been shed on the Diaphragm Wall foundation; questioning the future strength and durability of the Seascape apartments. The 52 storey apartment block is located on Customs St in Auckland. The main contractor of the project is China Construction New Zealand Limited (CCNZL). This story was originally published on RNZ.co.nz to read the full article click here.
It is great to see that concerns have been raised as structural safety is a key part of what we aim to achieve at CSI. An independent Peer Review was conducted by engineering firm Beca. The review questioned if the Diaphragm Wall meets Building Code standards. The review by Beca discovered faults with CCNZL’s repair plan. The conversation is very interesting to the team at CSI and we hope that sound investigation is done in order for appropriate solutions to be found.
CSI’s finding were not included in the repair plan. At CSI we feel we have been misrepresented in this article by CCNZL. When Auckland Council asked why CSI’s findings were not included in the report to them, CCNZL replied “CSI’s type of scanning wouldn’t be suitable on the 600mm-thick, heavily reinforced walls”. Clause 12 in CCNZL’s response to Auckland Council’s questions quoted that “It has been realised that their (CSI’s) technique would not be suitable for the 600 thick double layer D Wall”. We’d like to correct this statement and say that this was not the case.
Our Ultrasonic testing is and was capable of reaching the depth required. At CSI we always core or break-out to confirm our data when establishing the Operating Parameters for non-standard applications. Even when coring appears to be challenging CSI find an area that allows access to complete the task. The depth of penetration of our device is also well documented in the Manufacturer’s Limitations.
Nevertheless, we wish all parties the best in finding answers that will ensure the safety of New Zealanders and visitors to Auckland. We hope that the defects of this structure can be fixed.
The team at CSI hope durable solutions can be found for the completion of the Seascape Apartments Project.
At Concrete Structure Investigations we are committed to ensuring the best outcomes for all projects we take on. If you’d like to learn more about our services feel free to contact us.
Phone
North Island – Central and North, Auckland: 0800 33 77 67
Greater Wellington region and South Island: 0800 30 20 20
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