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Engineering and logistics challenge at the heart of the FM Science and Technology Center
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Elevate with precision, build with confidence
Since March 2025, our structural engineering teams have been actively working on the construction of the FM Science and Technology Center, the future European headquarters of the insurer FM Global. The progress made so far is already impressive.
The building, covering more than 25,000 m², is taking shape on Rue Robert Stumper in Gasperich. Given its size and the complexity of the work involved, the site has been divided into different areas and organised into phases.
Progress of the structural work and engineering challenges
After the earthworks phase, our teams proceeded to construct the 113 piles, which are essential for supporting and distributing the building's loads. One of the unique features of the project is its waterproofing membrane, placed under the foundation slab and on the buried perimeter walls. At the same time, the installation of the reinforcement and the networks began on the south side. Once this preparatory work was completed, the C35-45 concrete slab was poured in phases, allowing work to begin on the ground floor.
Height record achieved for sails
The building's architecture includes high-ceilinged halls partly dedicated to laboratories, requiring walls over 13.60 metres high. These walls, concreted in a single pour at such a height, are a first for our teams.
This highly technical operation requires meticulous preparation and execution, particularly for the assembly and securing of formwork, reinforcement and concrete pressure control in the wall. To ensure a steady and precise pace, the teams use pressure sensors on the formwork and maintain a controlled concreting rate of 2.75 metres per hour. The first walls were poured in early October, with completion scheduled for February.
Managing deadlines and constraints
The meticulous organisation of the site allows tasks to be carried out in sequence to ensure the smooth running of the finishing teams, while controlling the pressure on the formwork during the concreting of the 13.60 m walls. This logistics operation relies on precise coordination of the reinforcement areas on the ground with the storage of materials and an adjusted delivery rate to optimise the use of cranes.
➡️ Click here to find out more about the origins of the project ⬅️
