utrecht RIVM/CBG | Versatile foundation expertise results in vibration-free building

Every foundation job requires a specific approach and expertise. This is evident once again when the construction of the new housing of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and the Board for the Evaluation of Medicines (CBG) is scrutinized. Franki Grondtechnieken realized the complete construction pit for the eighteen-story building at Utrecht Science Park. A sterling achievement that once again underlines the multidisciplinary character of the foundation specialist founded in 1909. 

CSM-waånd.

Flexible, results-oriented, innovative. The expertise offered by Franki Grondtechnieken has several dimensions. But first and foremost, the company distinguishes itself by the multitude of foundation solutions and related know-how offered in a wide variety of situations. "In addition to extensive consulting skills, we represent a wide range of disciplines," says director Jan-Wim Verhoeff on behalf of Franki Grondtechnieken, part of the BESIX GROUP since 2009. "That gives us the ability to choose the best suited technique for each project. Especially when it comes to large, heavy objects and working in sensitive environments, we are a true specialist. Think, for example, of inner-city and petrochemical projects, assignments that often require low-vibration and low-noise work. In order to fill in the picture as well as possible, however, it is preferable to involve our company in a project from the very beginning. Based on the client's wishes, the available budget, the type and condition of the soil and the environmental conditions, we present the client with the advantages and disadvantages of the possible techniques so that a well-considered choice can be made. It is even possible to combine various techniques. After all, we have all the knowledge and expertise for that."

Anchor beam with grout anchors.

Combination of techniques

A striking example where Franki Grondtechnieken's variegated range of expertise culminated in an optimal end result involves the construction of the new accommodation of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and the Medicines Evaluation Board (CBG), scheduled for completion in the fall of 2021 at Utrecht Science Park. "The RIVM works with high-quality laboratory equipment that is very sensitive to vibrations," Verhoeff explains. "It is therefore of the utmost importance that the new accommodation is built in such a way that the operation of that equipment is not disrupted by vibrations. After main contractor Strukton commissioned us to realize the complete building envelope, we met that requirement in full." 

Large diameter bored piles (diameter 1,850 mm, depth 58 m).

Based on expert advice in the preliminary process, Franki Grondtechnieken drew in just six months for soil mix (CSM) walls, concrete work, anchoring, soil injection, foundation piles, head-cutting and all earthwork, among other things. The final result was an 80 x 160-meter construction pit from which the building is currently steadily rising. "Whereas in most cases we are called in as a specialized subcontractor, in this case we took on the project from A to Z," Verhoeff said. "Without the client having to worry about it at all. The performance delivered in Utrecht is therefore indicative of the multitude of techniques with which we can serve the market from our customized program."  

Applying anchor beam on CSM wall.