GELEC Awarded Contract to Supply TROX Dampers for the Sha Tin Sewage Facility Relocation Megaproject

Hong Kong's top equipment supplier, GELEC, has been awarded a contract to supply TROX Technik Motorised Smoke and Fire Dampers for the ambitious HK$20.2 billion (USD 2.58 billion) relocation of the Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works (STSTW) to the new caverns complex located at Nui Po Shan.

This colossal project, led by the Drainage Services Department (DSD), is one of the most significant environmental infrastructure ventures in Hong Kong's history, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainability and urban development.

The relocation of the sewage treatment plant to the rock caverns will free up 28 hectares of land for housing and other essential developments in Sha Tin. As part of Hong Kong's long-term vision, this project will enhance urban efficiency and environmental conservation, incorporating cutting-edge technology like Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) to reduce environmental impact and expedite construction.

GELEC’s Key Contribution

GELEC’s selection as the supplier of TROX Technik’s Motorised Smoke and Fire Dampers is vital to ensuring the safety and functionality of the underground facility. With a strong track record in Hong Kong, GELEC is recognised for delivering high-quality safety solutions and advanced ventilation systems.

GELEC’s longstanding partnership with TROX Technik, a global leader in ventilation and air conditioning components, ensures that GELEC is equipped to deliver and support TROX’s high-performance dampers.

GELEC’s experience with Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) also ensures that the dampers will be seamlessly integrated into prefabricated units, optimizing installation efficiency and quality control. These advanced dampers will play a crucial role in protecting personnel and equipment by providing robust fire safety and precise air circulation control within the confined cavern space. The dampers’ performance will enhance fire containment by regulating airflow and minimizing the spread of smoke and flames in emergencies—an indispensable feature for underground structures.

Additionally, GELEC has contributed to major infrastructure projects, including the Hong Kong International Airport’s Third Runway and Terminal 2 expansions, the Trunk Road T2 and Cha Kwo Ling Tunnel, and the Excelsior Hotel redevelopment. Their ability to deliver fire safety and ventilation solutions aligns seamlessly with the Sha Tin project’s goals of sustainability and safety.

Modular Integrated Construction: A Technological Breakthrough

The project’s reliance on Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) further underscores the importance of innovation in this megaproject. By using MiC, installation of the dampers is streamlined, reducing time, labour, and potential errors on-site. This off-site manufacturing process allows for greater precision and quality control, ensuring the dampers are installed seamlessly within the prefabricated units, and reducing overall construction time.

The MiC approach brings numerous advantages, including:

• Improved Safety and Quality Control: Off-site prefabrication ensures better oversight and higher safety standards, reducing the risk of faulty installations.
• Time and Cost Efficiency: Pre-installed dampers reduce on-site labour needs, cutting down both time and costs.
• Seamless Integration: The dampers will be strategically integrated into prefabricated units, ensuring smooth alignment with other essential systems in the cavern facility.

The relocation of the Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works, slated for completion by 2031, is expected to significantly modernise Hong Kong's wastewater infrastructure, improve environmental standards, and set a new benchmark for future urban developments. With GELEC and TROX Technik playing crucial roles in the project, integrating innovative technologies like Modular Integrated Construction is poised to streamline operations and enhance the efficiency of large-scale infrastructure projects in the region.