Reynolds Helps Create World's Tallest Indoor Waterfall
Description
Reynolds Polymer Technology, Inc., the world's leader in fully integrated, highly engineered acrylic solutions, was selected by WOH HUP to manufacture and install part of the world’s tallest indoor waterfall element that is located at Jewel Changi Airport (Jewel), Singapore. The multi-dimensional lifestyle destination officially opened on April 17 and captures travelers with its breathtaking 40-meter tall water display that is also known as the HSBC Rain Vortex.
“Jewel Changi Airport is our single largest installation of acrylic panels to date, and at 719 square meters of surface area, it is hailed as the biggest monolithic piece of acrylic ever engineered. Through our strategic conceptualization and manufacturing processes we were able to seamlessly help bring the overall vision for this phenomenal component to life,” said Mark Johnson, Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing at Reynolds Polymer Technology. “Jewel’s inventive construction welcomes the incorporation of such a uniquely designed focal point. We are eager for visitors from around the world to experience the extraordinary features within the complex, including the HSBC Rain Vortex.”
The acrylic feature extends into the structure’s basement and is composed of 24 panels on the top and 16 panels at its base. All the panels were bonded onsite using Reynolds Polymer Technology’s state of the art bonding processes for a seamless display. The weight of the acrylic is 59 tons and 15 meters tall in total. Each panel is approximately 70 mm thick and approximately 40 panels were used to compose the structure in its entirety. The bottom section is formed into a conical cylinder, while the top, juts upwards into a trumpeted shaped vessel.
"Our Operations team was beyond excited to have the opportunity to build this one-of-a-kind acrylic structure," said Bart Baker, Vice President of Global Operations at Reynolds Polymer Technology. "We utilized custom and signature methods and strategies to create the best end result possible. Due to the sheer size and massive dimensions of the structure, we were tasked with assembling the entire feat onsite as well as built a cleanroom and oven around the entire structure for seamless bonding processes. At Reynolds, we always welcome the challenge of building the possible through magnificent visions like the HSBC Rain Vortex."
Located at the central core of the complex, the HSBC Rain Vortex transforms into a stunning Light & Sound show in the evening and is visible from the dining terraces surrounded by lush greenery. Jewel is the newest development at Singapore Changi Airport, and its design is intended to unify Changi’s three terminals while bringing airport travelers and local residents together through the nucleus of the orb-like structure.