As part of linking theoretical knowledge with practical application, the Department of Civil Engineering at the College of Engineering, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University in Al-Kharj, organized a field visit to the under-construction “Rash – Drive Thru” project in Al-Kharj City. The visit aimed to familiarize students with the structural systems used in the project.
The project serves as a distinguished model for implementing the Hollow Block Slabs with Foam Blocks and Hollow Brick technique, where all structural elements consist of hollow slabs constructed using hollow clay blocks and foam blocks. The project relies on cast-in-place concrete, and this type of slab is characterized by its lightweight nature and excellent thermal insulation.
Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Enazi, representative of the executing company, gave an overview of the project and its construction phases. Dr. Mohammed Al-Bahar and Dr. Abdulatif Salmi, the supervisors of the visit, provided a detailed explanation of the different stages of execution, highlighting key engineering aspects and structural design methods. They emphasized the advantages of hollow slab technology in reducing the weight of structural elements and improving thermal insulation.
At the end of the visit, Dr. Mohammed Al-Bahar stressed the importance of such field visits in enhancing students’ understanding of real-world engineering practice and connecting classroom knowledge with practical applications on construction sites. He noted that these activities play a vital role in developing students’ skills and preparing them for the engineering job market.
