Super-Long Span Post-Tensioned Cold Storage Project: Taiku Solution Reduces Overall Cost by 15%

The client prioritized maximizing storage capacity, eliminating expansion joints in the super-long structure, controlling early-age and long-term cracking, and shortening the construction schedule.

Adopted a large column grid of 11.4 m × 10.6 m with a post-tensioned flat slab system, increasing storage capacity by over 15%. The super-long storage area (116 m × 53 m) required only one post-cast strip instead of multiple expansion joints. Staged post-tensioning was implemented to mitigate early-age shrinkage cracks, while the pre-compression stress controlled deflection and cracking, enhancing structural durability.

The Tianhe (South China) Agricultural Materials Reserve and Logistics Base 1# Cold Storage is a representative case of BICP's Taiku product, completed between September and November 2021. The project is located in Xiashan District, Zhanjiang, with a total building area of 79,500 m², aiming to create a highly integrated agricultural supply chain hub. The 1# cold storage is a 3-story structure (height 23.9 m) using bonded post-tensioned flat slab technology, with plan dimensions of 53 m × 116 m and column grids of 10.6 m × 11.4 m.

Project Challenges:

1. Storage Capacity: Zhanjiang, a major agricultural production city in Guangdong, demanded high storage capacity.
2. Super-Long Structure: The 116 m long storage area exceeded the typical 50 m expansion joint limit for cast-in-place shear wall structures, which would have required multiple joints and delayed the year-end completion.
3. Early-Age Cracking: High construction temperatures in the southern region increased the risk of early shrinkage cracks.
4. Long-Term Cracking: Potential for floor cracking over time.

Solution and Advantages:

1. Large Column Grid: The 11.4 m × 10.6 m post-tensioned flat slab design increased storage capacity by over 15%. The smooth soffit facilitated polyurethane insulation spraying, contributing to a 15% reduction in overall cost.
2. Elimination of Expansion Joints: The super-long storage area (116 m × 53 m) required only one post-cast strip, significantly shortening the construction schedule.
3. Crack Control: Staged post-tensioning applied pre-compression to reduce early shrinkage cracks.
4. Durability: Pre-compression minimized temperature-induced stresses, controlling deflection and cracking for improved long-term durability.

BICP, as a full-process solution provider for post-tensioned low-carbon construction, has over 13 years of experience in the field. We are committed to advancing low-carbon and digital construction for high-quality structural development.

Increased storage capacity by over 15%, reduced overall construction cost by 15%, shortened project duration, minimized cracking, and improved structural durability.