The chalice supports form the architectural highlight of the new Stuttgart 21 through station and set new standards in the combination of statics and design. Each roof truss is unique in its own right and differs from the others in its inclination, shape and height (8.5 – 13 m). With a diameter of 32 m, the cantilevered goblet bowl with the scoop for the light eye spans a wide range over the filigree, strongly tapering foot.
The first chalice support in construction field 16 was completed at the end of October 2018, the second in March 2019, the third in April 2019 and the fourth in September 2019. Another chalice support is expected to be built this year. Only when six finished goblets stand as a contiguous group the remaining narrow gaps will be gradually closed.
Ed. Züblin AG relies on SÜLZLE Stahlpartner for the production of the custom-made reinforcement. The complicated geometry is reflected for each cup support in around 11,000 different, partly three-dimensionally curved bar shapes, including many unique specimens. The reinforcing steel is bent with specially modified bending machines in the specially equipped project rebar fab shop S21 in Denkendorf and tested by a true-to-scale laser projection. As with a giant 3D puzzle, the iron braiders, together with the surveyors, have to place the custom-made reinforcement steel exactly where it is needed before the concrete can be poured between the braids.
Once again, SÜLZLE Stahlpartner’s customers were able to see thr masterly performance live on site this year.
On 27 September the first “Stuttgart 21 Tour” took place. After the guided tour through the rebar fab shop in Denkendorf they drove together to Stuttgart. There, the site manager of Ed. Züblin AG took the visitors with his helmet, boots and waistcoat right into the centre of the action.