The Challenge

Sonicon was commissioned to execute critical wall and lift shaft openings for a high-end development located next to Tun Razak Exchange (TRX). As part of an integrated infrastructure plan, the client required an underground access connection to the TRX MRT station. This involved a clean and fast cut of a large 32m² opening through 800mm thick concrete wall without any disruptions to the MRT operations as our machine has no vibration. The client also required opening of 5 vertical shafts for lift installation.

Our Approach & Result

Diamond wire saw machine was used to cut the large opening as it is capable of clean and fast cut through thick, reinforced concrete efficiently and without vibration. The entire 32m² cut was completed safely, providing a clear underground linkway for the building’s future tenants to access the MRT.

For the lift shaft opening, we also utilized diamond wire saw to cut through 600mm thick slabs. Then, our team also carried out structural strengthening and formwork, reinforcing the surrounding beams and slabs to accommodate the additional weight from the soon-to-be installed elevator.

We began with coring to verify the structure’s depth and discovered the underground wall was 800mm thick, significantly more than the initial spec of 600mm. With our diamond wire saw, we made fast, vibration-free cuts through the dense structure, completing the 32m² opening in a short time.

Next came the lift shaft, with cutting works carried out for each of the 5 opening. Each slab was 600mm thick, and we used our wire saw to ensure clean, precise openings without compromising surrounding structural elements.

To complete the job, we reinforced the newly exposed areas with strengthening works. We embedded rebars and also formwork grouting to ensure the structure could safely bear the new load of the lift system.