At a glance
Client/project partners: UKCMRI Construction Ltd
Status: Complete
Location: London
Awards
BREEAM Excellent in design and procurement
CHt provided the complete mechanical and electrical services, including the design completion and delivery of infrastructure (including combined heat and power plant), internal general and laboratory fit-out works. Using our vast MEP expertise and experience to radically enhance the future of UK biomedical scientific discovery and development
Complex engineering
In delivering the complex multidisciplinary MEP building services and science equipment, CHt successfully addressed: incredibly stringent vibration criteria; the spatial and electromagnetic compatibility of MEP and research equipment; steam, chilled water and a wide range of medical gases; and the need for a system to recirculate extraordinary amounts of fresh air.
Using the latest Digital Engineering and modelling techniques, animation capability, and DfMA, a sophisticated visual-sequencing programme was produced. This involved over 4,600 large-scale plant and MEP modules (built in our Oldbury factory at a rate of 150 units a week) being sequenced in the virtual environment to highlight any areas of concern to ensure fast, safe and high-quality first-time delivery on site.
CHt also embedded sustainable solutions into the building’s design and operation, including brown roofs and 1,700m² of photovoltaic solar panels.
Added value to clients
Working alongside the principal contractor, CHt ensured the modules were integrated into the structural design and that the modules were manufactured, factory acceptance tested and delivered just-in-time, as required by the overall construction programme.
The MEP design was validated by CHt to ensure that the systems could be tested and commissioned, as well as material selections being value engineered to deliver innovative design – including stainless steel pipework for main mechanical systems and modular wiring in lieu of singles.
The BMS for the facility comprises more than 24,000 points; the BMS package was the first package procured, ensuring the BMS design developed in line with the MEP systems design. The BMS was delivered by CHt BMS engineers.
