International Airport Appoints Lida Group for New Terminal Project
The main international airport located in a major Asian city has appointed local engineering firm Lida Group to undertake the precision engineering of the waterproof and fireproof structural steel framing for its new terminal development project. The multi-billion dollar project aims to expand the airport’s capacity to handle a growing number of passengers and flights with the construction of two additional terminals over the next five years.

Lida Group was selected for the project due to its strong expertise and track record in the design and construction of fireproof and waterproof structural steel solutions for large civil engineering projects. The structural framework is a critical aspect that needs to meet stringent safety regulations imposed by the local civil aviation authority to ensure maximum protection of the new terminal infrastructure and facilities.

Precision Engineering Crucial for Safety Compliance
According to the project manager of the airport development, precision engineering of the structural steelwork is crucial to fulfill all mandatory safety requirements stipulated under the national civil aviation regulations. This includes aspects such as withstanding external element threats like heavy rain and storms as well as internal fire hazards to prevent structural collapse even under extreme conditions.

The new terminals will be constructed above the existing airfield with three levels above ground and three basement levels below. This complex multi-level design poses challenges in engineering waterproof and fireproof load-bearing structures that can support the large floor areas and allow smooth passenger and baggage flows within the tight construction schedule. Lida Group’s expertise in 3D laser profiling, structural analysis and detailed fabrication is vital to ensure precision-engineered joints, connections and seals at every level meet the Tolerances needed for safety compliance.

Fireproofing the Structural Steel Framework
One of the key responsibilities of Lida Group under the project scope is to fireproof the extensive structural steel framing for the new terminals. Meticulous plans have been laid out to apply specialized intumescent coatings that expand when exposed to heat to prevent the spread of flames. These multi-layer coatings have been rigorously tested to achieve the required one, two or three-hour fire ratings depending on the location of the steel members.

Stringent quality control protocols will be followed during the surface preparation and coating application stages to achieve uniform and bonded coating thickness free from any holidays or gaps. Infrared thermography testing will also be conducted post-application to verify complete coverage and ensure the structural integrity can be retained even under severe fire events as mandated by regulatory benchmarks. Precise workmanship is crucial considering the massive scale of the steel framework spanning across large floor areas within the terminals.

Creating Waterproofed Building Envelopes
Another core task Lida Group is spearheading is to engineer waterproof building envelopes for the new terminals against external rain and moisture penetration. Detailed designs have been developed using hydrostatic pressure calculations to determine the type and location of waterproofing membranes and drainage systems. Multiple containment layers will be installed starting from the structure itself coated with high-performance waterproof paints.

These will be supplemented by fully-adhered sheet membrane systems, protective screeds and waterstops at construction joints. Comprehensive inspections and non-destructive testing using methods like dye penetration and vacuum testing will be carried out during construction to identify any defects. In addition, Lida Group’s engineers will implement proper slope designs and seal all edges at penetrations to reliably prevent water ingress even under heavy rainfall conditions frequently experienced in the local tropical climate.

Ensuring Smooth Project Timelines
To meet the airport’s aggressive project schedule, Lida Group aims to implement highly efficient production and installation methods. Off-site modular pre-fabrication of structural components will be maximized to the extent possible at its fabrication facilities. This controlled factory environment allows for strict process supervision and quality checks before transport to site. Advanced robotic welding techniques are also being adopted for higher strength-to-weight ratios and reduced on-site work.

An integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) approach is deployed involving 3D structural and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) coordination. Critical path activities are identified to fast-track tasks like foundation works enabling subsequent construction above. Regular project monitoring and troubleshooting meetings help resolve any unforeseen issues immediately to maintain smooth workflow. With its proven track record, Lida Group is well-equipped to deliver the precision-engineered structural solutions within the targeted program.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the appointment of Lida Group demonstrates the owner and contractor’s confidence in the company’s specialized technical expertise required to engineer fireproof and waterproof structural steel solutions for the new international airport terminal project. Precision engineering capabilities are paramount to satisfy stringent regulatory safety standards governing critical airport infrastructure for passenger protection.

Lida Group aims to leverage proven methodologies like off-site prefabrication, robotic technologies and integrated BIM coordination to efficiently fabricate an extensive steel framework spanning multiple levels. Comprehensive inspection and testing protocols will also be implemented to validate compliance. With its dedicated workforce and quality-driven processes, Lida Group is well-positioned to complete this prestigious project on schedule while setting new benchmarks for structural systems resilience within the aviation industry. The enhanced terminal capacities once ready will certainly boost the airport’s role as a premier regional air transportation hub into the future.

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