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In this column, we aim to provide readers with authentic insights into the work environment, responsibilities, and professional expertise of architects and engineers.
This time, as part of the inaugural collaboration between MGL E&C and CNADRI, a knowledge sharing session on high rise buildings was organized. During the session, Sainbayar.L, Qualified Structural Engineer at MGL E&C, and a structural engineer from CNADRI shared their expertise on “Substructure Design for High-Rise Buildings.”
MGL E&C: Challenges in High Rise Substructure Design
In Ulaanbaatar, substructure solutions represent one of the most complex engineering challenges in high-rise building projects. Planning basement levels below ground is particularly common and challenging for high-rise structures. Foundations for tall buildings often extend several tens of meters underground, requiring precise engineering calculations to ensure stability, including soil characteristics, load-bearing capacity, and seismic effects.
In much of Ulaanbaatar, environmental conditions contribute to a high groundwater table, creating significant challenges for substructure and basement design, construction, and operation. Additionally, enclosed basement layouts can increase fire safety risks, requiring dedicated planning and safety measures.
CNADRI: Approaches to Substructure Design for High Rise Buildings
In China, high rise foundation and substructure design integrates a multi layered waterproofing system within reinforced concrete, along with technological and casting considerations to prevent water infiltration. Measures include cementitious waterproofing on interior surfaces, combined with a thorough assessment of geotechnical conditions, groundwater levels, and hydrostatic pressures to ensure foundation stability.
To maintain structural reliability, advanced computational tools, such as high precision wind simulation programs, are used to assess potential instability and perform additional calculations.
Since basement areas are enclosed spaces, strict fire safety measures are essential. Planning includes specialized fire compartments, at least two emergency exits per area, and integrated systems compliant with international standards, including automatic fire alarms, sprinklers, and smoke ventilation systems.