From The Outside in
Piers H and J

From Outer to Inner Values

A variety of technical systems make the piers come alive. They include advanced plumbing, ventilation, heating, and security systems. Contrary to expectations, this space-filling equipment isn’t accommodated in the cellars but on the roofs of the piers. More precisely, inside huge steel frames resting on their roofs. One major advantage of putting everything up above is that it facilitates operations. It is easier to access and service, which can also be done during the day. And in case anything has to be completely replaced, it’s much easier to do it on the roof. Passengers also benefit from this “inside-out” arrangement: they enjoy more clear space inside the piers. No large equipment rooms block their view of the apron, for example.

Piece by Piece

Fourteen steel latticework frames are installed end-to-end on the roof of Pier H, each of which is 24 meters long. That adds up to a total of 336 meters, more than three-fourths of the pier’s total extension. In the case of 600-meter-long Pier J, there will be 23 such frames stretching 552 meters. From below, they almost look like they are hovering over the piers. Their sheer size makes them impressive to behold. Whether or not they look like they are suspended in the air depends on the viewing angle. Later they will hold the “externalized” equipment so that it harmoniously blends in with the overall architecture. (On the construction of Piers H and J)