Demolition of E. B. Fred Hall

 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison 

in the Summer and Fall of 2004

Thursday, September 16

1 through 6: Some more shots around the building showing the growing gap between the older and newer sections, accomplished by the precision work of the Komatsu PC400LC. Note the pipes stretching between the two sections which were soon to disappear. In Photos 4 and 5, Kevin takes a turn spraying water on the work area from the front of the building – a frequently seen procedure which effectively minimized the dust – while Randy continues with the Komatsu in the back.

The separation process between the older and newer sections of Fred Hall had actually started some weeks previously when cuts were made through the concrete in order to minimize vibration emanating from the old section which could harm the power substation in the newer section. This substation is intended to remain in place and be incorporated into the new Microbial Sciences Building. The protection over the intake vents had to be shored up occasionally as shown below in Photo 12.

Throughout the demolition process, the main source of noise came from the building falling in pieces. For its huge size and power, the Komatsu was surprisingly quiet!

The Following Week

7: An evening photo taken from Babcock Drive which can be compared to Photo 3 on the first page.

8: The old section from the east end.

Sunday, September 26

9 through 12: Progress is made removing the brick walls of the newer section.

Monday, September 27

13 through 15: These photos show the aftermath of Sunday's activities.

16: Another shot of the old section showing its continuing disintregation from the east end.

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