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Каркас высотной башни на фоне неба

Technology and Safety of Iconic Complex

The design of Tower T2 of Iconic Complex, which is 272 metres tall, takes into account the seismic conditions of the site. The reinforced concrete core and the steel frame jointly resist the loads, while special braces absorb part of the earthquake energy. The design service life of the load-bearing structures is 100 years.

Seismic Resistance of Iconic Complex

The design of Iconic Complex takes into account the seismic characteristics of the region, as well as wind and snow loads. The structural calculations are based on American codes and guidelines, using local data on the construction site.

For Tower T2, engineers assess the strength of individual elements and the behaviour of the building under earthquakes of varying intensity. The calculations indicate potential floor displacements, the distribution of loads and the areas where damage may occur. The conditions for safe evacuation and for inspection of the building following an earthquake are also considered.

Structural System of Tower T2

The structure of T2 is based on a reinforced concrete stiffening core and an external steel frame. The core runs through the interior of the tower and, together with the frame, provides resistance to horizontal loads from wind and earthquakes.

At certain mechanical levels, these components are connected by steel trusses. The trusses engage the external frame to act together with the core and help to distribute forces. The loads are transferred to the foundation through the load-bearing structures.

The design also provides for two underground levels, which contribute to the tower's resistance to shear. The architectural form of the building and its structural system are being developed in coordination with one another.

Tower cutaway showing the steel frame, concrete core and basement levels

Absorption of Earthquake Energy

The truss system of T2 incorporates special steel buckling-restrained braces (BRBs). Their construction prevents buckling under compression and allows the steel core to deform in a controlled manner under repeated tension and compression.

During a strong earthquake, such braces absorb part of the vibrational energy. This helps to reduce the load on the principal load-bearing elements of the tower.

Steel diagonal braces with dampers in an underground car park

Verification of Seismic Resistance

The behaviour of T2 is verified under three levels of seismic action: a relatively frequent minor earthquake, a design-level earthquake and a rare major earthquake. For each level, the corresponding performance requirements for the building and its structures are assessed.

The verification is carried out by means of computer modelling within the framework of the Tall Buildings Initiative (TBI) approach for high-rise buildings. Engineers analyse the response of the tower as a whole and of its key elements.

According to the design report, preliminary calculations for a rare major earthquake have shown that the displacements and performance of the verified structures meet the adopted criteria. The results relate to the conceptual stage and will be refined in the course of further design.

Tree-lined street with pedestrians and a tall tower in the distance

Design Service Life

A design service life of 100 years has been adopted for the load-bearing structures of T2. In the design, the tower is assigned to a higher importance category, which is taken into account in determining the requirements for its reliability.

The durability of the building presupposes regular maintenance, inspections and timely repair. Engineering equipment has its own service life and is replaced according to separate schedules.

Terraced facade with a lit entrance in the evening

Energy Efficiency of Iconic Complex

According to the architectural firm SOM, the design takes into account the continental climate of the region. Facade solutions with enhanced thermal insulation and external solar shading are intended to reduce energy consumption and limit the overheating of interior spaces.

The design also takes into account natural lighting of interior spaces. Landscaping of the site and stormwater management solutions complement the approach to creating a comfortable environment around the complex.

Glazed living room with a balcony overlooking snowy mountains

Engineering Systems of Iconic Complex

Mechanical levels (floors 17, 30 and 52) are provided for the engineering infrastructure of T2. Part of the equipment and the hotel's service areas will be located underground.

Information on ventilation, climate-control equipment, lifts, fire-protection systems and building automation will be published once the relevant design solutions have been approved.

Tower cutaway showing building services, lifts and underground parking

Key Facts

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is it safe to build a skyscraper in a seismic region?

    High-rise construction in such regions requires special engineering solutions and calculations that take site conditions into account. Tower T2 is designed with a reinforced concrete core, a steel frame and braces that absorb part of the earthquake energy. The design service life of the load-bearing structures is 100 years, subject to the prescribed maintenance.

  • How is the seismic resistance of Tower T2 verified?

    Engineers calculate the behaviour of the tower under earthquakes of varying intensity. They assess floor displacements, loads and possible damage to the structures. According to the design report, preliminary calculations have shown that the verified parameters meet the adopted criteria. The results will be refined at subsequent stages of design.

  • According to which codes are the structures of Iconic Complex designed?

    The design of the load-bearing structures of Tower T2 is based on the American codes ASCE 7 and ACI 318, the AISC standards and the TBI guidelines for tall buildings. The calculations take into account the seismic conditions of the site in Kazakhstan, as well as local wind and snow loads.