Across the line Forsyth Barr Stadium - structural engineering by Grayson Engineering

Structural engineering for a large stadium requires a vast array of disciplines and extensive experience. When the design in question is also breaking traditional expectations for a large sports and entertainment arena, the need for engineering innovation and excellence is that much greater.

Auckland-based Grayson Engineering was appointed by Hawkins Construction to supply and erect the structural steelwork for the Forysth Barr Stadium. The company had not long completed the south stand roof at Eden Park, says Grayson Engineering commercial manager Colin Berger.

"The job required us to work closely with Hawkins Construction and the project's consultants to develop the design based on buildability issues," says Berger. "The project was fairly complex given the geometry of the overall structure."

An important part of the stadium's success was the technology used by the associated detailing company, Cadtec Draughting, to prepare the fabrication drawings for Grayson Engineering using a computerised software package called Strucad.

"The project required a total of 8578 separate drawings for a staggering 20,642 members. The technology gave us peace of mind, knowing that when the steel arrived on site it would fit," he says.

Because the steelwork needed to be fabricated to fine tolerances, extensive jigs were used, with all members trial fitted in the workshop before being broken down, painted and readied for transport.

"On site, the reassembled structures were craned into place. The most dramatic part of the operation was seeing the placement of the five arch trusses spanning the 105m space above the playing field between the south stand primary truss and the north stand on the other side," says Berger. "At a height of 47m at the top of the arch and with an internal clearance of 37m, these lifts required extensive planning it was an intricate collaborative exercise between Hawkins Construction and the crane operators, Daniel Smith."

Other substantial event environments completed by Grayson Engineering include Vector Arena, TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre, the Mt Smart Stadium and the Waikato Stadium.

For more details, contact Grayson Engineering, PO Box 97550, Manukau, Auckland 2241, phone (09) 278 3366. Or alternatively visit the website: www.grayson-engineering.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas