Category: 2013-2014

Project – Dubai Metro Station
Architects – Aedas
Engineer – Atkins

The Component
The first image shows the skeletal roof structure of one of the entrances to one of the Dubai Metro stations. This web-like structure consists of radially positioned cylindrical beams that are connected by I-beams. The rib structure would then be cladded with aluminium panels in order to complete the construction of the roof of the station entrance, as seen in the second image.

The Material
Steel, due to it being an alloy of iron and carbon, is both strong and malleable, when heated to approximately 1200°C. Hence, it is used to produce beams of all varieties. Aluminium, used for the cladding of the roof structure is light and is much more resistant to corrosion than steel, which is why it is used to clad the steel structure.

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