HS2 has released the final designs for its Thame Valley Viaduct which will use innovative construction techniques to reduce carbon output.
Prefabricated construction methods will be used in the construction of the Viaduct which will cut its carbon footprint by an estimated 66%.
This method of construction will involve the structure being slotted together in individual pieces.
This follows the recent news that HS2 is offering summer placements to construction students in the Midlands.
The Viaduct located just outside of Aylesbury will carry HS2 trains at speeds of up to 360km/h between London, Birmingham and the North.
Thame Valley Viaduct is one of the 15 viaducts designed by HS2 Ltd’s main works contractor EKFB, a team made up of Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction and BAM Nuttall.
Tomas Garcia, HS2 Ltd’s Head of Civil Structures commented on the innovative new design of the Thame Valley Viaduct.
Mr Garcia said: “HS2 trains and stations will be zero carbon from day one.
“Providing a cleaner, greener way to travel and helping the fight against climate change.
“But we’re also serious about reducing the amount of carbon we use during construction.
“Thame Valley is a great example of how our contractors are using the latest engineering techniques to do just that.
“Prefabrication and off-site manufacturing offer huge benefits in terms of efficiency.
“This design will help us deliver a more efficient, durable and elegant structure with less concrete and steel.”
The design is inspired by similar high speed rail projects in Spain and helps to cut embedded carbon by simplifying the structure so it can be made off site.
EKFB spoke on the design and how this will help cut the amount of carbon released in the construction process.
Janice McKenna, EKFBs Technical Director said: “Cutting carbon during construction is a priority for EKFB as the team commences the building works.
“Working alongside our design partners, we have tackled the carbon challenge from two angles.
“The structurally efficient solution means we minimise the embedded carbon in the viaduct materials.
“We have… been able to reduce emissions during construction by maximising off-site pre-fabrication to achieve an efficient build, as well as reducing the number of HGVs on local roads.
“The techniques used in the Thame Valley Viaduct are also being used in other structures along our line of route.”
Featured image - HS2
