The reconstruction, expansion and upgrading project at Nicaragua's Punta Huete International Airport, undertaken by China CAMC Engineering Co., Ltd. (CAMCE), a subsidiary of Sinomach, has reached a major milestone with the accurate positioning of a steel grid structure over the terminal's central hall.

[Photo/CAMCE]

The integrally-lifted steel grid covers an area of over 8,000 square meters with a total weight of approximately 360 tons, reaching a maximum height of 25 meters upon completion.

To better tackle multiple challenges like large-span steel structures, complex curved profiles and strict installation-precision requirements, the CAMCE project team has adopted an innovative construction technique of combining on-ground assembly with integral lifting and achieved real-time monitoring as well as control in the whole frame-lifting process with the support of an intelligent synchronous hydraulic operation system.

The safe, controllable and stable execution of the lift has clearly demonstrated CAMCE's solid technical expertise and refined project management capabilities in large-scale and complex steel structure engineering.

The Nicaraguan government spoke highly of CAMCE for its advanced steel construction technologies and project management experience, which will provide the country with valuable references for improving its engineering standards.

The successful lifting of the terminal grid is another major construction milestone following the concrete placement for the runway pavement, clearing the way to subsequent works such as roofing, curtain wall and mechanical-electrical installation, together with interior decoration.