Aluminum grating, rotec ceiling suspension in Stuttgart 21 main station

The major project Stuttgart 21 is one of the largest transportation infrastructure projects in Germany. In addition to the redesign and conversion of Stuttgart Central Station, it also includes the construction of several underground stations, including the underground station at Stuttgart Central Station and Stuttgart Mitte Station. As part of this project, rotec GmbH Berlin supplied a total of 3,200 m² of aluminum grating for the ceiling suspensions, which were specially adapted to the high requirements of Deutsche Bahn.

Aluminum grating as a central design element

The choice of aluminum grating for the suspended ceilings of the stations is not only an aesthetic decision, but also meets important functional requirements. The one used here rotec façade grating type Berlin impresses with its high-quality workmanship, durability and adaptability to rail-specific requirements.
 

An aluminum grating was used with the Mesh size 35.4 x 100 mm and a bearing bar of 40/3 mm with an attachment specially developed for station ceilings. The ability to produce gratings up to a length of 6000 mm and a width of 1280 mm without edging means that large ceiling modules can be used as continuous elements. This contributes to a homogeneous and modern ceiling appearance that meets the requirements of the overall architectural concept.

Technical advantages of aluminum gratings

The aluminum gratings from rotec offer numerous technical advantages that make them the ideal choice for a complex construction project such as Stuttgart 21:
 
1. high load capacity  
   The robust support bar ensures a high load-bearing capacity and durability of the structure, which is essential for heavily frequented public areas.
 
2. weight reduction  
  The use of aluminum significantly reduces the overall weight of the ceiling construction. This simplifies installation and minimizes the load on the supporting structure without compromising stability.
 
3. corrosion resistance 
  Anodized aluminium (EV1) is naturally corrosion-resistant and therefore offers long-term protection against environmental influences, which is particularly important in underground stations.
 
4. optimal opening rate  
   With a Opening degree of approx. 75% the grilles support the ventilation and smoke extraction of the stations. This high degree of opening is crucial for safety in the event of a fire.

Adaptations to rail-specific requirements

In order to meet the specific requirements of Deutsche Bahn, rotec worked closely with the renowned structural engineering firm KREBS+KIEFER Ingenieure GmbH. Together, a modified ceiling fastening was developed that meets the requirements of the DIN EN 13964 for suspended ceilings. This standard regulates the mechanical properties of ceilings, fire protection requirements and hygiene requirements.


Particular attention was paid to the following parameters
 
- Wind loads: For the ceiling gratings, wind loads of 0.2 kN/m² in horizontal and vertical direction. These loads act diagonally from below and were taken into account when calculating the load-bearing capacity.
  
- Light measure: The grids are designed for a span of 1200 mm in the longitudinal and transverse directions to create a stable and load-bearing ceiling grid.
 
- Load bearingThe rated load for the gratings is 50 kg/m²which, in addition to the dead weight of the gratings (approx. 12 kg/m²), also includes the wind loads acting on the gratings.
 
These technical adaptations ensure that the gratings meet the high safety and functional requirements in underground stations.

    Challenges and successful implementation

    The realization of the project was not without its challenges. However, the close cooperation of all those involved made it possible to adhere to the strict specifications and tight schedule. The punctual delivery of the aluminum gratings testifies to the high reliability and commitment of rotec GmbH.
    Special thanks are due to the partners and employees who have made a significant contribution to the success of the project through their commitment.

      Certifications and quality assurance

      The quality of the gratings supplied by rotec is guaranteed by extensive certifications. These include, among others:

      DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 - Quality management
      DIN EN 1090-1/2 (EXC 1+2) - Execution of steel and aluminum structures
      DIN EN ISO 3834-3 - Welding quality requirements

      These certifications guarantee the consistently high quality and safety of the products, so that building owners and planners can count on rotec as a reliable partner.

      Conclusion: aluminum gratings for demanding projects

      The Stuttgart 21 project shows how important the combination of high technical precision and customized solutions in complex building projects. The aluminum gratings from rotec make a decisive contribution to the functionality and aesthetics of suspended ceilings and impress with their many technical advantages.