Tunnel ventilation structures to be built with precast concrete

Ventilation and smoke-control structures inside tunnels will be manufactured using precast concrete, a method in which structural components are produced in a factory to standard specifications rather than cast on-site, offering advantages such as shorter construction timelines and consistent quality.

Sampyo P&C, the precast concrete affiliate of Sampyo Group, announced Friday that it has established a technology and production cooperation framework with SB Construction.

Under the agreement, Sampyo P&C's precast concrete manufacturing capabilities will be combined with SB Construction's patented "tunnel air duct slab" technology. The air duct slab is a structural component related to ventilation and smoke-control systems inside tunnels, managing airflow and helping expel smoke during emergencies such as fires.

The two companies plan to collaborate across the full project cycle — from technical proposals and turnkey project bids to incorporating their technology at the basic and detailed design stages. They will also pursue joint sales and contract activities targeting project owners and contractors, and will link production and supply plans on a per-project basis to build a stable supply system.

Sampyo P&C expects the partnership to extend its precast concrete manufacturing capabilities into the civil engineering sector. The two companies have agreed to identify additional business opportunities by combining their technological strengths and production capacity.

"We will build an integrated cooperation framework covering everything from the design stage through production and supply, and expand the civil engineering precast concrete market through joint contract wins," a Sampyo P&C official said.

Precast concrete refers to structural components produced in a factory to set specifications in advance. Compared with conventional on-site poured concrete, it offers more uniform quality and greater ease of construction.