Title: WestLink M7 Match Cast Segmental Precasting Factory

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Publication: CIA

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Date: 2/13/2011

Abstract:
The Westlink M7 Motorway in outer suburban Sydney is a 40 km project linking the M2 at West Baulkham Hills, the M4 at Eastern Creek and the M5/Hume Highway at Prestons. The project includes approximately 170 bridges, a large number of which were constructed using match cast segmental construction. To produce the 2729 segments, the Abigroup Leighton Joint Venture developed a precasting facility and storage yard which was the most advanced of its type ever used for match cast segmental production. This paper describes the development of the design of the precasting factory, the precasting cells, handling systems and other associated facilities. Also covered is the in-service performance of the factory which exceeded all expectations. The quality and productivity of the precasting factory operations were important factors in the overall project being completed 8 months ahead of schedule in December 2005.