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Large distribution centers require smart solutions. At DC JYSK in Lelystad, those solutions include water. Increasingly intense rainfall requires drainage systems that can handle more than usual. Aquadraat provided a customized solution for this.
Aquadraat, with a headquarters in Ranst (Belgium) and a Dutch branch in Breda, provides Design & Build solutions for rainwater and emergency drainage systems for large distribution centers. The company now operates throughout the Netherlands, from north to south, and in Belgium and is expanding into Germany, France and Luxembourg. According to Frank van Dommelen, Aquadraat's role often begins early in the process. “We think along at the front about the best way to apply systems. After all, with large volumes of rainwater, you have to look closely at forces and drainage routes.” That early involvement was also the case at DC JYSK. Through the collaboration with Willy Naessens Netherlands and Vrolijk, Aquadraat came into the picture.
The project called for systems with a higher drainage capacity than usual. With this, JYSK is already anticipating future weather conditions. “Very smart,” says Van Dommelen. “But that did bring challenges for us.” In accordance with the advice of TVVL Expertgroep Sanitaire Technieken - based on research by Royal HaskoningDHV and ERAdvies - Aquadraat applied increased precipitation intensities for rainwater drainage and emergency drainage systems, in view of the climate scenarios for 2050-2080. “We had to implement the systems more heavily. That required a lot of coordination with other disciplines, such as sprinklers and electrical engineering. In the end, that consultation went very well.”
Planning also played a big role. Aquadraat works between different construction phases. “We are only a small part of a much more complex process. We can't start work until the supporting structure and roof plates are ready, but at the same time the contractor wants to continue with the structural work and pour the concrete floor. For this to go smoothly, close cooperation and coordination with the contractor and other subcontractors is crucial.”
A notable choice in the project is the cantilever mounting technique. This involves making larger spans without attachment to the roof panels. “This way we prevent heavy loads from coming onto the roof. We mount directly to the main supporting structure. That makes the system stronger and more flexible,” said Van Dommelen. In addition, Aquadraat is strongly committed to quality control and leak detection. Each system is tested with a pressure test based on formation gas. All connections are checked and recorded in a report with photos. “This way we can prove that everything is watertight. That gives security for the end user.”
With multiple building sections and a high logistical pressure, DC JYSK was an extensive project. Meanwhile, Aquadraat's work is almost over. “After about a year, we have finished construction. We are now finalizing the last completion points.”
