At Con-form Group we like being given opportunities to express our adaptability and thanks to APM Group and their Kew Gardens Aged Care project we were able to produce a HVAC&R platform with a unique chamfered screen.
Screens are typically vertical however in this case the architect requested the 45-degree lean-back to mimic the various roof angles.
We activated our internal Product Development Centre© (PDC) which includes CAD designers, engineers and production staff to create and build the 1900mm high structure. Once this was achieved they moved on to the remainder of this project which included a 32.8 x 7.6 metre platform. To add to the uniqueness of this enclosure three of the sides featured a solid acoustic backing panel, what we call a Solid SoundShield©. The fourth wall had gaps to allow ventilation (18.7% open air flow) to the HVAC&R equipment inside.
Weight is an important matter when constructing roof top structures. This system included more than 400 slats for the screens, steel brackets, the HVAC&R platform plus chequer plate for the deck - which weighs more than the standard mesh system. Given that this platform dominated the roof top expanse - and was mounted over the ridge line - the ideal solution was our EasyMech MR. It is ultra-lightweight and mounted above the purlins so that it distributes its load evenly across the roof space, negating the need to add extra integrity to the existing framework. The Classic Screen Wall© is equally lightweight. The Light Gauge Steel framework for the screens also contributed to the low overall weight.
Despite its light weight EasyMech MR has a live load rating of 2.5 kPa which can be increased to more than double that capacity. Super strength without the bulk.
In the days of structural steel decks a project like this could take weeks or months to complete. However, Con-form Group pioneered the modular "Kit set" design which is easy and very quick to assemble. Only simple tools are required to put it all together in a fraction of the time.
An additional benefit was the ability to provide uninterrupted installation. Because this industry-first design doesn't require the roof to be penetrated - it is surface mounted - the residents and staff could continue to occupy the facility during installation.
We are proud of delivering an architecturally elegant visual barrier - finished in a contemporary Windspray colour - which complements the whole building, delivers superior acoustic performance and allows for crucial air flow.
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