Firth X-Pod heads offshore to Rarotonga
Designing a foundation system for a major commercial building is one thing; designing one that also needs to be efficiently transported to a remote Pacific island adds another layer of complexity. For the new New Zealand High Commission Chancery (PPSP) in Avarua, Rarotonga, Firth RibRaft® X-Pod® was selected as part of the foundation design, offering both the structural solution required and significant advantages when it came to shipping and logistics.
“I was involved in the PPSP Chancery project by providing X-Pod estimates and developing a proposed pod layout during the design phase,” says Greg Illing, Construction Systems Specialist for Firth.
The project was designed using a Firth RibRaft® X-Pod® 215/1500 foundation system, incorporating a 1500mm reinforced concrete rib grid with beams capable of supporting the structural steel, lift walls and reinforced concrete elements required for the project.
Greg says the project demonstrates how New Zealand-designed foundation technology can be adapted for complex commercial buildings and delivered successfully in remote locations.
The lightweight X-Pod system also offered significant logistical advantages for the 470m² foundation.
“All the X-Pod components were packed onto just seven pallets, with a total freight volume of approximately 15m³ - less than one 20-foot sea freight container,” says Greg. “By comparison an equivalent polystyrene pod system would have required around 75m³ of freight volume - the equivalent of three 20-foot containers.”
This significantly reduced shipping, handling and storage requirements while simplifying the logistics of getting the system to the Cook Islands.
Over and above the practical benefits, Greg says the project is a great example of New Zealand innovation and expertise being used overseas.
“Seeing a Firth RibRaft system specified for a high-profile government building in Rarotonga is a great example of local technology solving challenges well beyond our shores.”
