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Renovation of the Marseille Velodrome Stadium

As part of the renovation of S? the Marseille Velodrome Stadium, the general contractor, GFC Construction, a subsidiary of Bouygues, chose the expertise of the CSTB for the wind loading design. One of the major challenges of the project was to make sure stadium activities continue during the construction phase. This challenge required analyzing the effects of wind for each assembly sequence, from interim phases to the final configuration. The work began in April 2011 and was completed in August 2014.

Testimonial of Romain Vondière, Technical Director at GFC Construction

“A relationship of trust has been forged with the CSTB team. If, at any time, I have a new complex issue to address, it is quickly handled; I know who I want to work with.”

Collaboration with the CSTB began in 2010 to perform wind testing during the various construction phases. Deadlines were tight and we wanted to work with a French partner to facilitate and carry out the validation and approval procedures of the supervising body. The CSTB is recognized for its expertise in working with major structures, particularly stadiums. It also has an wind tunnel for full-scale testing.

Choosing the CSTB was easy. We first looked at the final structure then the assembly sequences, in other words, from the more general to the more specific. The primary objective was to determine the effects of wind on the roofing and conduct studies of comfort on the field and enclosure of the stadium.

Tests performed on six 3.8-m-diameter models

An initial three-week experimental campaign was conducted to test four models in the wind tunnel, corresponding to the four major interim phases of construction. The CSTB successfully transformed a complex architectural project into a 3D model that takes into account the environment of the structure. The 1/250 scale models had open spaces 3.8 m in diameter (475 m full scale).

The results allowed us to determine the edge effects of the roofing, effects of wind gusts, pressure and overpressure on the membrane, and all the stadium roof loads (frame and roofing) under static and dynamic wind effects. I really appreciated the professionalism of the CSTB in analyzing and using the results. The CSTB and structural engineering and design consultants (frame and roofing) worked together to develop a specific process well before testing.

After making geometric changes to the structure, a second campaign was conducted in June 2011 for four weeks. Through testing of the two models, the initial data was updated. In June 2012, we entrusted the CSTB with specific campaigns corresponding to the roof assembly phases based on their interim configurations to allow events to take place in the stadium.

Fifteen wind tunnel tests

Ultimately, these tests required creation of modular models to reproduce the configurations of structures deemed sensitive to wind. Overall, the 15 wind tunnel tests at the CSTB in Nantes made it possible to determine all the wind actions on the building envelope. The CSTB team was always very responsive and enthusiastic about the project, and we really appreciated true “customer service.” Despite deadlines and unforeseen requests, the CSTB made it their priority to find solutions and successfully complete the project.”

About the company

GFC Construction, a subsidiary of Bouygues Construction, is the representative of the AREMA consortium, which was chosen by the city of Marseille for the reconfiguration of the Velodrome Stadium and its surroundings, ensuring use of the enclosure for 35 years. With operations throughout south-eastern France, GFC Construction is known for its technical know-how and involvement in local life, entrusting more than 70% of its services to local partners.
http://www.gfc-construction.fr/

Project specification sheet

Project ownership: City of Marseille
Project management: AREMA consortium
Architects: SCAU and Didier Rogeon Architecte
General contractor: GFC Construction
Engineering and design: IOSIS, Garcia Ingénierie and Beterem Ingénierie