Annual maintenance of Rotterdam's Markthal
The Markthal in Rotterdam has become one of the most recognisable buildings in the Netherlands. The horseshoe-shaped building attracts thousands of visitors every day and is intensively used. To ensure the performance and safety of its complex façade structures, Octatube carries out specialist inspections and maintenance works on an annual basis.
The impressive cable-net façades at both ends of the Markthal are among the largest in Europe. These transparent façades consist of an ingenious network of pre-stressed steel cables to which the glass panels are attached. This construction not only creates maximum transparency but also preserves the characteristic views of the city.
As part of this year's maintenance programme, Octatube's Services team inspected both the interior and exterior sides of the façades. Particular attention was also given to the tension in the façade cables. Due to temperature fluctuations, wind loads and the natural movement of the structure, significant forces act on the cables and connections. Using hydraulic measuring equipment, the cable tensions are checked and analysed where necessary. In addition, the cable nodes, spherical hinges, sealants and other façade components are carefully inspected for wear, damage or irregularities.
Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to safeguard the performance, safety and lifespan of these complex façade systems. In this way, the Markthal remains not only an architectural icon, but also a durable and safe building for the future.
Want to know more about this remarkable project? Visit our project page Cable-net Façades Rotterdam
