UHPC – DUCTAL® Ultra-High-Performance concrete (UHPC)

WHAT IS UHPC?
Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) is generally defined as a concrete with a characteristic resistance to compression >100 MPa, UHPC is reinforced with metallic (normally) or organic fibres. It is made of very fine sands, cement, flying ashes, silica smoke and a very low ratio of water cement (w/c < 0.20)

WHAT IS DUCTAL®?
Ductal is the name of the UHPC designed and developed by LAFARGE-HOLCIM with which we work, being the only company in Spain audited and authorized to work with Ductal.

WHY DUCTAL®?
We work with Ductal as it is a highly proven product. It has been used worldwide for over 20 years in all types of projects and by the most prestigious architects and engineers: DUCTAL® Projects

DUCTAL® advantages

  • Mechanical properties. Exceptional durability and impact resistance. 110 to 200 Mpa compression.

  • Durable. Minimum maintenance. Abrasion resistance and ice/thaw cycles.

  • Finish. Very fine internal structure (particles).

  • Impermeability. Very low porosity and not connected.

DUCTAL ® is impermeable
  • Very Compact-Waterproof-Durable: Ideal for harsh environments
  • Small panel thicknesses and low weight
  • Complex geometrics without armor: lattice, slats, double skin curtain wall panels, ventilated facade…
Process in precast UHPC-DUCTAL®

Production planning

Generally, the phases of the production process are as follows:

  • Development of the precast project by our technicians based on the instructions obtained from the work, making elevation plans, meetings details and anchors, three-dimensional models, calculation report…
  • Execution (based on agreed timeframe) of the number of molds required for the consequence of the objective.
  • Self-compacting UHPC pouring, not needing vibration nor embedding placement. (the process is variable depending on the type of panel to manufacture).
  • Withdrawal of the precast panel to the collection, sites, where they will be given the final treatment, as well as the corresponding cosmetics.
  • On-site transport on supports that protect the precast panels.
  • Setting up with the help of auxiliary cranes for the handling of the panels.