The tireless efforts of the construction industry in Sydney is shown by the new wave of innovation in the sector. Nowadays, technology has become one of the main characters as the buildings rise from the ground up, causing a remarkable transformation.
This surge is not merely about efficiency or speed, but it’s focused on a more sustainable, collaborative, and future-proof construction landscape. Here’s a quick glimpse into the exciting technologies and practices that are reshaping the way Sydney builds in 2024.
How innovation is reshaping construction in 2024
- Building Information Modelling (BIM). With BIM, engineers can create digital 3D models that encompass a building’s entire lifecycle. This tool helps the construction teams to collaborate virtually, identifying potential mistakes and inefficiencies before construction even begins. In Sydney, BIM was necessary to develop Barangaroo South, ensuring seamless integration of the complex of multiple buildings, the public plaza and the infrastructure around.
- Prefabrication. Prefabricated elements are essential in the industry as it reduces the construction time and minimises on-site waste. The trend offers greater quality control, improves the worker’s safety and the project is done faster. One example of a building that used this technique is the Green Square Library. The pre-constructed units were manufactured off-site in a controlled environment, ensuring high quality and minimising on-site construction time.
- Robotics and automation. In Sydney´s construction sites, robotic arms are performing tasks like bricklaying and welding with precision and efficiency. An example of this technology is the WestConnex East, in which robots performed welds in the road tunnel, ensuring precision and safety for the construction workers in a confined environment.
- Virtual Reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Virtual Reality allows architects and engineers to visualise their building designs before construction begins, identifying issues and refining plans. On the other hand, AR overlays digital information on the real world, allowing workers to visualise the building components and verify their placement on-site. During the redevelopment of Sydney Fish Market, VR technology was used to create a virtual walkthrough of the proposed design.
These are just a few examples, and as technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative applications in Sydney’s construction projects.
It might interest you: Become an expert: The power of specialisation in construction careers