Over 80 Haulotte Platforms On Track in Dubai
When the first phase (Red Line) of the elevated Dubai Metro (one section is underground) is opened later this year, it will comprise 28 stations over a distance of 52 km and radically change the city’s way of life.

The major construction works are virtually completed and the finishing touches are being applied to various structures.

The height of the elevated track various as it weaves through the tower blocks of the city. Fighting for space with the high volume of cars using the roads, the contactors are under pressure to keep disruption to a minimum, which means limited space in which to work.

Plant selection is critical as machines need to be compact and yet provide access to all parts of the elevated track structure which, on over passes, can be 35 m.

United Equipment Rentals says that working on the various stations are over 80 Haulotte machines. One of the most popular sizes for the works is the Haulotte H16TPX wheeled telescopic access platform, which is proving to be extremely adaptable for painting the Metro ramps.

The H16TPX has a maximum working height of 15.4 m, so can reach the highest parts of the typical structures. A 12.30 m forward reach allows the workers to gradually extend the boom as they work, without having to travel. With 140° movement (-70° / +70°), the articulating fly jib enables the workers to follow the profile of the ramps precisely for safer, more productive working. The flexibility allows them access to all areas and having a width of just 2.30 m, the compact 6,800 kg H16TPX is ideal for applications such as this, where space is very restricted.

When the machine needs to be moved, this can be done from within the 1.8 m x 0.8 m platform, which has a capacity for two people with their equipment – lift capacity is 230 kg.

Some of the more elevated sections, where it passes over major highway junctions, the larger HA32PX with a maximum height of 32 m is being used.

On Course For Delivery In 2009
Work started in 2006 with a budget of Dh15.5 billion and the first phases is on schedule for handover in September 2009. The driverless trains will travel at speeds of up to 50 km/h and the Dubai authorities believe that the speed, reliability and convenience of the Metro system will result in a significant reduction in traffic congestion that can be extremely sever at peak times.

Main contractor for the Dubai Metro is the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsubishi Corporation, Obayashi Corporation, Kajima Corporation and Yapi Merkezi Joint Venture.

United Equipment Rentals LLC, supported by Haulotte Middle East, has been extremely successful in placing Haulotte access solution in projects throughout Dubai. Arthur Danelian, Managing Director, Haulotte Middle East said “In the access platform market, Dubai is very competitive but Haulotte is gaining market share and are now a common sight on projects including the new Jebal Ali Internaional Airport, major hospitals projects in Silicon Oasis and in the very heart of Dubai."

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