Rebuilding a Dutch monument
The Maastunnel is a landmark tunnel in the heart of Rotterdam. Construction began in 1937 and the tunnel opened in 1942. As the oldest tunnel in the Netherlands, it runs beneath the Nieuwe Maas river as part of the Rotterdam Tunnel Traverse.
The closed section measures 1,070 metres and features two tubes with two traffic lanes each, plus separate tubes for cyclists and pedestrians.
A recent renovation modernised both the structure and the technical systems. A key upgrade was the transformation of the ventilation system to meet new safety regulations. These rules required a longitudinal ventilation setup to support safe evacuation routes during fires and to give fire brigades smoke-free access.
Reliability for life-safety system
NOVENCO Building & Industry supplied and installed tunnel fans for both temporary use during construction and permanent operation.
The installation includes NOVENCO’s round AUR 1250 tunnel fans and the rectangular ARC 710 jet fans. The rectangular units are engineered for tunnel profiles with minimal installation height. Where space is restricted, they ensure effective ventilation and smoke control. Their lower sound levels also support a more comfortable driving experience.
Both jet fan types are known for uncompromising quality and, crucially, their reliability during fire scenarios.
When the Maastunnel reopened after two years of renovation, it drew widespread attention.
As the Dutch newspaper AD reported:
“The Maastunnel passed its final exams. In case of fire, a storm will occur.” That storm is driven by the dependable performance of NOVENCO jet fans.
Equipment delivery
NOVENCO Building & Industry supplied and installed a mechanical longitudinal ventilation system that ventilates in the direction of traffic. It is designed for pollution control and ensures effective smoke control during fire events.
System deliveries
- 9 pcs round NOVENCO AUR 1250 tunnel jet fans
- 5 pcs rectangular NOVENCO AUC 710 tunnel jet fans
Facts
- Maastunnel, Rotterdam S103, under Nieuwe Maas
- Closed section length 1,070 m
- Width 24.77 m
- Two tubes with 2×2 traffic lanes
- Construction period 1937–1942
- World’s first immersed tunnel
