Dome Technology pioneered the monolithic concrete dome-construction process.
And we continue to innovate the industry with more than 40 years' experience in more than 35 countries. What began as a revolutionary way of thinking about building has yielded one of the strongest and most durable structures available in the world. In addition to our full scope of services, discover here the building process that makes the dome uniquely capable.
Initial Design & Engineering
Unique site conditions, product properties, and operational requirements factor into the initial design of foundations, tunnels, domes, and operational systems. Our in-house design team ensures a project is completed with the fewest delays and lowest cost for the customer.
Foundations & Tunnels Construction
The inherent strength of the dome allows for diverse foundation and reclaim options. In locations where soil conditions may require deep foundations, a variety of alternate options may exist for the dome. Innovative precast concrete tunnels can speed up project delivery and, paired with various dome shapes and floor configurations, accommodate efficient underground mechanical reclaim systems.
Airform Fabrication & Inflation
The PVC airform acts as the air-supported structure for applying additional building layers. Upon completion, it remains in place as the waterproof membrane. The airform is is fabricated at the Dome Technology campus in a state-of-the-art facility to match precise custom design requirements. Once attached to the dome foundation and inflated, the airform creates a protected environment, allowing for construction to continue inside the dome in almost any weather conditions.
Steel-Reinforced Concrete Application
Structural reinforcing steel and concrete are placed using the shotcrete method. This process is the final step in constructing the dome and represents completion of the concrete dome assembly.
Additional Structures & Systems
While the dome is an impressive structure, industrial applications require a variety of additional features. Cutouts in the dome accommodate gravity feeding, explosion venting, front-loader access, conveyor access, and other access needs. Headhouses are constructed atop the dome, along with other steel structures. Pneumatic floors, mechanical screws, other reclaim systems, climate systems, and specialized hardware are installed within a dome. In instances where Dome Technology is the design-build contractor for an entire project, the scope of construction goes even beyond these considerations.
Polyurethane foam-insulation application
Polyurethane foam is applied to the air-supported PVC airform. Reinforcing and concrete are then placed against the foam insulation. Upon completion of construction, the foam acts as a thermal insulator, protecting both the concrete dome structure and the product stored inside.