NPS® Top-Down

This method allows underground structures to be built fast and safely, without occupying areas outside the excavation and without requiring temporary support work such as struts or tie-rods. The system combines the speed of execution typical of the NPS® system with the ability to counteract the horizontal forces of the excavation, thanks to the permanent load-bearing elements (the beams) that remain in place. The NPS® beams and columns guarantee structural stability, fire resistance and excellent aesthetic quality even for visible structures.

Areas of application include:

• Underground car parks
• Infrastructure such as metro lines
• Large commercial or residential buildings with basement floors

Main features:
• Simultaneous excavation and laying phases: the excavation proceeds “under cover”, with the beams supporting the bulkheads
• Approximately 40 % reduction in construction time compared to traditional systems
• Greater safety and less personnel on site: up to 80 % less manpower, only 3 people to install an NPS® structure
• Low impact on the neighbourhood: construction site without external storage, no ‘high-rise syndrome’. Reduced impact on the neighbourhood due to faster construction site, less noise and visual impact.
• Integrated and tested fire and earthquake resistance: NPS® beams and columns are CE marked in accordance with EN 1090-1, with seismic resistance without tested bracing.