Officine Maccaferri, a platform company of Ambienta SGR S.p.A. and a global leader in the field of civil and environmental engineering, takes another important step in the international expansion of its technologies by successfully completing the first operational test in Japan of its patented automatic steel rib system. This innovative solution, introduced in Italy over a decade ago, is designed to improve worker safety standards and optimize installation times in underground work environments.

The first application in Japan was implemented at a tunnel site constructed by Kumagai Gumi Corporation, a long-established company in the civil and infrastructure construction sector. This initiative was mediated by Okasan Livic Co., Ltd., a civil engineering materials trading company　and supported by Marubeni-Itochu Sumisho Techno Steel Inc., a specialist in steel supply. The test confirmed the effectiveness and adaptability of Maccaferri’s technology, demonstrating full compatibility with Japanese construction machinery, procedures, and high safety standards.

The Maccaferri automatic rib system is an advanced mechanical solution that enables the automatic opening of steel ribs, their precise and safe positioning inside the tunnel, and full remote assemblyc – so that operators no longer need to enter high-risk zones. This high-performance system significantly shortens installation time, while improving workplace safety by minimizing exposure to hazardous conditions and ensuring greater operational quality. In Italy, these systems have been successfully used in major projects such as the Terzo Valico dei Giovi, a groundbreaking railway infrastructure linking Italy with Northern Europe.

“Bringing a technology developed in Italy to a country that is globally recognized for its advanced infrastructure sector, and seeing it successfully integrated into their excavation processes, is a source of great pride for us. It further confirms the quality of our know-how and our ability to innovate underground construction, promoting the industrialization of traditional excavation methods,” said Nicola Faccioli, Head of the Tunnelling Business Unit at Officine Maccaferri.

Through this initiative, Officine Maccaferri strengthens its position as a global reference partner for safety and efficiency in underground works, enhancing the Group’s ability to anticipate market needs and provide concrete solutions to future large-scale infrastructure projects.

Stefano Susani, CEO of Officine Maccaferri, stated: “The positive experience in Japan now paves the way for new collaboration opportunities and applications in other strategic markets, with the goal of contributing to a tangible transformation of construction methods. In an era where infrastructure must respond to increasingly complex challenges, our commitment is to lead change by offering solutions that combine sustainability and innovation with the ultimate aim of building safer infrastructure that delivers positive impact for communities.”