In the heart of Kuwait’s financial district, a new architectural masterpiece will rise up on the skyline: The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK). The 300 meter (984.3 feet), 62 storeys high building has been designed by world leading architectural firm Foster + Partners.
XSPlatforms was asked to see to the design of the NBK’s facade access equipment from scratch. The iconic design and challenging construction of the building inspired us to come up with a highly innovative facade access solution. With a weight of 123300 kg (271260 lbs) it will be the heaviest building maintenance unit (BMU) ever designed and realized.
The result: XSPlatforms is contracted by NBK to provide the facade access equipment for their new office.
Key principles
The NBK building will be equipped with a BMU at level 52 and two BMUs at level 41.
From the beginning of the process, we took the perspectives of all parties involved into consideration, like the client, consultant and architect.
For example, we’ve taken the following requirements and specifications into account:
- The top-level machine must both reach out to the crown of the building and contain a glass replacement unit. Important detail: there is no roof to install the machine on.
- The amount of openings in the facade, that allow the BMUs to come out of their parking position, should be reduced to an absolute minimum.
- Operating the BMUs should be as logical, user friendly and safe as possible.
Level 52 solution
Because of the absence of a roof, we designed a BMU that is integrated in the building, invisible in parking position. It will turn to its operating mode by moving out through a panel that mechanically opens and closes. When the operators push a button the machine will automatically move outwards to its erected position. From this position the operators have control of the machine and can reach any location, from the crown of the building down to level 41. Apart from using the machine for cleaning purposes, the BMU also has a glass replacement unit with a lifting capacity of 1300 kg (2866 lbs).
Level 41 solution
The machines on level 41 are so called knuckle jib machines. These jibs allow the operator to position the cradle around the perimeter of the building – especially around the shape of the ribs. The machines at this level are also fitted with a glass replacement unit.
A perfect match
As you can imagine, we are very proud the National Bank of Kuwait has opted to work with us. They praised us for the high level of quality and creativity we consistently show. This project is a perfect example of how XSPlatforms is able to offer unsurpassed solutions that perfectly fit the unique situation and needs of the client.
Keep an eye on our website. More information about this project will be following soon!