A new 2.2 m diameter drum centrifuge with a maximum acceleration level of 440 g has been installed at the Institute of Geotechnical Engineering of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (Eidgenossiche Technische Hochschule: ETHZ). Twin concentric shafts allow separate control of a central tool table and a drum channel. Together with multipurpose actuator units, which can be fitted to the tool table, radial, circumferential and vertical control of construction processes or test activities may be achieved. Control and data acquisition systems are provided in modular form, allowing a flexible choice of sampling and recording modes. The development of the facility, the additional accessories required and the first geotechnical centrifuge test are described.