PROJECTS

Wellington University – Rankine Library

Situation

Meccanico was contracted by LT McGuniess to undertake a challenging project at Wellington University’s Rankine Library. The objective of the project was to jack the lift shafts and perimeter structural columns by 1-2mm in order to facilitate the installation of seismic base isolators. This project was a crucial part of the building’s structural strengthening upgrade following the Christchurch Earthquake.

Challenge

The project presented several challenges that needed to be overcome. Firstly, the building had to remain operational throughout the entire duration of the works. This meant that Meccanico had to devise a plan that would enable them to carry out the jacking work without disrupting the normal functioning of the library. This required careful coordination and scheduling to minimize any inconvenience to the university staff and library users.

In addition, the jacking work needed to be completed in multiple stages, further adding to the complexity of the project. Each stage had to be carefully planned and executed to ensure the safety and stability of the structure during the jacking process. Meccanico’s team of experienced engineers and technicians worked closely with LT McGuniess to develop a detailed project plan that accounted for all the necessary stages and ensured the successful completion of the project.

Solution

Meccanico’s team utilized their expertise in structural engineering and construction to execute the jacking work with precision and efficiency. They employed advanced jacking techniques and equipment to achieve the required 1-2mm lift on the lift shafts and perimeter structural columns. The team worked in coordination with LT McGuniess and other stakeholders to ensure that all safety protocols were followed and that the building remained secure and stable during the entire process.

Throughout the project, Meccanico maintained open lines of communication with the university staff and library users to keep them informed about the progress and any necessary disruptions. This proactive approach helped to minimize any inconvenience and ensured that the library could continue to function smoothly despite the ongoing construction activities.

Project Outcome

The successful completion of the jacking work at Wellington University’s Rankine Library was a significant milestone in the building’s structural strengthening upgrade. Meccanico’s expertise and professionalism played a crucial role in the project’s success. The installation of seismic base isolators will enhance the building’s resilience to future seismic events, ensuring the safety of the university staff and library users.

By successfully completing this challenging project, Meccanico has further solidified its reputation as a trusted and capable construction partner. The company’s ability to overcome complex engineering challenges while minimizing disruptions to ongoing operations has made them a preferred choice for similar projects in the industry.

Overall, the Wellington University – Rankine Library project showcases Meccanico’s commitment to excellence and their ability to deliver innovative construction solutions in demanding environments.

TESTIMONIALS

Working with the world’s best

I have been involved with Rod and Meccanico for three large bridge lifts on two of New Zealands significant infrastructure roading projects in the last few years. I was the structures lead for the design team and was involved in the construction monitoring during the construction phase of the projects.

Jacking each bridge was a complex operation and required well controlled load and displacements in each of the jacks as we simultaneously lifted (up to 13 beams) concrete bridge beams that were rigidly connected together by a concrete deck.

Our company is also involved in the maintenance for many of New Zealand’s existing bridges and I would have no hesitation in using Meccanico when we need to jack an existing bridge to replace the existing bridge bearings in the future.

Ted Polley

Technical Director Structural Engineering

Martinus engaged Meccanico for the demolition of an existing wall inside Britomart Tunnel in Auckland CBD. Scope of works consisted of jacking to transfer load from the existing wall to a newly constructed wall, continuous monitoring of deflections, and design of all associated temporary works. Meccanico engaged Quoin to develop the temporary works design in collaboration with Martinus, Aurecon and City Rail Link Ltd. and developed the jacking methodology in accordance with the permanent works design requirements. The jacking works were completed successfully as critical path works during a rail shutdown with a very happy client as a result.

Throughout the works, it has been great to work with Meccanico as a trusted partner to deliver a robust solution, work to the program, and produce solutions where required. Impressed with the ability and flexibility of the team to get the job done. It was a pleasure to work with Rod & team!

Martinus Rail

We engaged Rod and his team to lift and an industrial warehouse roof back in March 2022 in New Lynn.

Rod visited our site and provided a safe methodology and successfully raised the full roof structure to the heights we required meeting our agreed timelines and budget.

I would have no hesitation recommending Rod and his team and will definitely chose to use them again for any future works we have.

Mark Niccolls

QDC Works Ltd

Due to unexpected settlement, the bridge had warped and required intervention to remove the warping stresses. We engaged Meccanico for this challenging operation, which involved synchronous operation of each jack and precise control of jack loads to prevent structural damage.

Under the leadership of Rod, his team worked with efficiency and competence, demonstrating excellent collaboration skills when dealing with higher than expected loads. Throughout the project, Rod kept variations to a minimum and provided a reasonable price for his services.

Overall, we were impressed with Meccanico’s expertise and professionalism in handling this complex project, and we would not hesitate to recommend them to others in need of similar services.

Dylan