Terminal velocity

Adaptability is a prerequisite for any contractor working in an airport environment. For the company awarded the full carpentry contract for the new pier building, it helped ensure the project was completed on time. KBL Construction undertook the carpentry construction for Gates 15 and 16, the new pier connector, the secondary line in the new MAF building, and the new goods and services lift.

Construction manager Arnold Kanon says the timeframe was a challenge as there was a six-week delay at the start of the project, and significant design changes made as work progressed.

"The tight schedule, the demand for high-quality workmanship and the need to meet stringent health and safety requirements all added to the workload. Working around aircraft operations and alongside public walkways were other considerations."

Arnold Kanon says the complexity of the project added to the challenge. The departure gates feature black Formica doors with specially designed hinges and black Melteca panels, all with hidden fixtures. The construction of the plywood panels and LEED display unit also required innovative construction solutions.

The scope of KBL's work included the construction of the timber framing, steel studs, 65mm Bondeck flooring, doors (from fire doors to solid-core, steel-lined and aluminium-framed pivot doors), door hardware, fire proofing between floors, wall linings and insulation.

For more details, contact KBL Construction, PO Box 82-165, Highland Park, Auckland 2143, phone (09) 534 5031. Email: henkkanon@kblconstruction.co.nz. Website: www.kblconstruction.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas