A key component within the new £34 million AV Hill research facility at The University of Manchester is Fermacell dry lining board, manufactured by Xella Dry Lining Systems.
Within the building the XPR range of internal partition systems developed by Xella, Protektor and Rockwool has been used. XPR partitions deliver the highest levels of environmental care and sustainability.The systems components comprise high impact boards, robust metal studs and a thermal/acoustic wool insulation core combining to give excellent sound and fire protection with a severe duty rating.
The six-storey building incorporates laboratories, meeting rooms; cellular offices and open plan areas for researchers. It will house the University’s Life Science and Medical facilities for Bio-Medical Science Research.
Built between the existing Michael Smith Building, Core Technology Facility and Stopford Building; each neighbouring structure can be accessed via link bridges at third floor level.
Designed by Wilson Mason and Partners, the AV Hill building was orchestrated by Main Contractors Morgan Ashurst. The building is approximately 70m long and 40m wide and occupies over 9465 m2 gross internal areas.
Alan Williams, Partner Architect at Wilson Mason, commented: "The University wanted a high quality day lit building. The inclusion of the light well at the heart of the building delivers daylight to all levels. The light well extends the full height of the building and is upto 30m high."
Fermacell approved contractor Cheshire-based Total Fire Stopping Systems, worked alongside the Architect to develop the use of Fermacell and XPR for the scheme.
Director Clare Church commented: “The composition of XPR Fermacell enabled us to commence on site six months before the building envelope was watertight and thereby accelerate the programme. “We have completed a range of installations, standard partition XPR W1; Acoustic partition XPR W3; Shaft wall; Security walls and wall linings to a height of 26 metres integrating large slot windows and link bridges. “The fact that Fermacell combined all the attributes we were looking for in one board, rather than having to select multiple types of board on site, avoids the risk of incorrect board selection. “My colleague Neil Fairhurst managed the Partitions & Ceiling packages and it’s great to see a large project from a bare concrete frame to the finished article creating a “wow factor” with a minimalist concept.”
Maurice Cooper of Morgan Ashurst said: “Having an Approved knowledgeable Fermacell contractor was paramount. The Fermacell board was selected for a number of reasons including quicker installation and subsequent Client alterations are easily managed, its environmentally friendly properties, 100% recyclable, water and impact resistance together with the inherent strength for direct fixing of heavy loads i.e. cupboards and shelving without the need for noggins or plywood.”
Phil Mattatia, Sales Manager with Xella Dry Lining Systems, said that the XPR system offers a range of systems of varying thicknesses and performances. “This versatility assists the Architect when specifying products for fire, acoustics, strength, and eliminates plastering trades with a BBA approval and longevity of 30 years. Our approved contractor Total Firestopping Systems have given the Client, Architect and Main Contractor confidence tackling difficult aspects such as the Atrium wall, lining 26 metre columns and the gable ends,” he concluded.
Project: AV Hill research facility at The University of Manchester
Architect:Wilson Mason and Partners
Main Contractors: Morgan Ashurst.
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