The Statue of Unity, Gujarat - A Case-study showcasing the application of ACM

As the world's tallest statue, the Statue of Unity required a combination of traditional and advanced materials to achieve its immense height and structural stability. Engineers had to consider factors like wind loads and seismic activity.

  • Reinforced Concrete Cores: The statue's core is made of two reinforced concrete towers. These cores provide the primary structural support and were constructed using a combination of concrete and steel. This design was crucial for stability and for withstanding the high wind speeds and seismic forces in the region.

  • Bronze Cladding: The statue's exterior is clad with over 6,000 bronze panels. These panels are not merely decorative; they are mounted on a structural steel framework and are designed to allow for a degree of movement. This flexibility helps the statue absorb and dissipate the forces of wind and seismic events without sustaining damage.

  • Tuned Mass Dampers: An advanced engineering solution was the installation of two 250-tonne tuned mass dampers inside the statue. These massive weights are designed to oscillate in opposition to the statue's natural sway caused by strong winds, thereby reducing vibrations and preventing excessive movement. This technology is a critical application of advanced material and mechanical engineering principles.

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