The construction of the Central Shaft of the Ibbenbüren Mine Water Canal commissioned by RAG Aktiengesellschaft showcases a highly sophisticated piece of engineering. The shaft is being built using a continuous slip‑form system – a method that demands exceptional precision, constant quality control, and seamless coordination across all disciplines.
Driven by hydraulic pumps, the formwork rises slowly and steadily, moving only about two centimetres with each lift. This quiet, controlled process forms the basis for a structure designed to perform reliably for many decades.
One of the defining challenges of this project is the site logistics: all materials – from concrete to reinforcement steel – must be delivered via a single crane. This creates a logistical bottleneck that requires meticulous planning and highly coordinated execution. Thanks to well‑structured processes and experienced site management, this challenge is being successfully mastered.
Our site supervisor Youssef Benjada oversees the construction process and ensures that quality, safety and precision remain uncompromised at all times. He is supported by our urban water management teams based in Bochum and Munich, who contribute their technical expertise to secure engineering excellence throughout the project.
The accompanying site video is published with the kind permission of RAG AG.