Optimize rail and metro construction with generative construction technology

Predicting the amount of time it takes to build a quality railway system is complex due to the wide range of factors that can influence the overall length of the process. That being said, one can estimate that if one wanted to lay 500 miles of rail, it could take approximately 36 to 48 months to complete the permit process and another 24 to 36 months for the actual construction of the railway.

Building a metro system is an incredibly intricate and time-consuming process; that being said, it comes down to five simple steps. 

The first step is to prepare the site by relocating and protecting current utilities. The second step is installing piling and decking, which acts as a temporary street surface. After installing the piling and decking, contractors can begin the excavation and tunneling process (for the future station box site).  

Once the excavation and tunneling process is complete, it’s time for the station construction to commence. The final step is street restoration, which involves removing the decking and piling.

Like any construction project, building a metro station comes with a variety of risks. Some of the risks include:

• Political risks
• Construction risks
• Financial risks
• Market and revenue risks
• Operating risks
• Legal risks

Construction company owners and general contractors should be aware of the construction-related risks that can affect the overall profitability and efficiency of the project.

Several weather and climate-related issues can have adverse effects on railway structures. For instance, unseasonably high temperatures can cause rails to buckle and lead to thermal expansion in metro structures. On the other hand, frigid temperatures can damage signaling equipment and overhead lines. Additionally, windstorms and tornadoes can cause extensive damage to railway infrastructure and potentially misalign the tracks.