Astina Space Non-Combustible Aluminium Panel Façade: A Story of Collaboration and Craftsmanship
To realise this bold concept, Astina Group partnered with Sydney metal fabrication specialist OPIE Manufacturing, renowned for their expertise in precision manufacturing. With the support of Melbourne based Locker Group, OPIE Manufacturing Group developed a state-of-the-art non-combustible aluminium panel façade for the Astina Space Facility in Emu Plains, combining aesthetic appeal, and long-term functionality.
Safety, Sustainability, and Innovation
The Astina Space façade required a design that prioritized both innovation and safety. As a non-combustible aluminium panel system, the façade met stringent safety standards while ensuring exceptional durability. This feature was critical for a project designed to be both functional and future-proof.
The façade design began with a concept photo from IDG Architects, featuring custom aluminium panels with intricate profiles and perforations. The Astina Group turned to OPIE Manufacturing to refine the concept and prototype the panels, ensuring they were not only visually striking but also compliant with fire safety regulations.
The façade spanned 720 square metres and featured 3.0mm thick Grade 5005 Aluminium panels with a distinctive zigzag profile, based on OPIE Manufacturing comprehensive technical drawings then Locker Group contributed by supplying the flat cut panels, complete with the attractive Locker Aero 400 perforation pattern.
This feature offered a 40% open area, achieving an optimal balance between airflow, visual texture, and the high standards of non-combustibility required by the project. OPIE Manufacturing expertly processed through design, bending and folding, on its precision TRUMPF brake press and finalised with powder-coated finishing.
Precision Manufacturing and Seamless Execution
The panels were powder-coated with Dulux Monument, on OPIE Groups 240-metre specialised powder coating plant which easily accommodated the panel length of 2980mm, this finish is not only a sleek and durable surface that ensured compliance with safety standards. While grey in appearance this durable coating also highlighted a stunning golden sparkle in the morning sunlight, beautifully reflecting the natural surroundings of the Blue Mountain’s foothills.
Meeting Challenges with Collaboration
The complexity of the façade required seamless collaboration between OPIE Manufacturing and the client. Together, the teams overcame challenges such as aligning the 900mm-wide vertical panels within structural tolerances and accommodating building movement. By combining Locker Group’s precision perforation capabilities with OPIE Manufacturing’s advanced fabrication expertise, the result was a façade that matched the project’s safety and design requirements and delighted the client.
A Landmark Achievement.
The completed façade is a stunning demonstration of craftsmanship and innovation. Speaking about the project, Tristan Opie, Managing Director of OPIE Manufacturing Group, said:
“Astina Space is a prime example of how safety and design excellence can go hand in hand and it allowed us to deliver a façade that not only captures the client’s bold vision for, sustainable architecture. We’re proud to have been part of such an iconic project.”
Redefining Modern Industrial Design
The Astina Space panel façade demonstrates what can be achieved when vision, collaboration, and technical excellence are matched with a goal of safety, sustainability, and innovation, OPIE Manufacturing have created a façade that sets a benchmark for modern architecture.
Do you have a bold architectural vision? Contact OPIE Manufacturing at 02 4728 6111 to discuss how we can help bring your project to life with safe, innovative, and visually stunning solutions.
Opie Manufacturing Group, a family-owned Australian company since 1962, operates a state-of-the-art 9,000m² facility in Emu Plains, Western Sydney. Specialising in contract manufacturing, they offer comprehensive services from concept realisation and design to manufacturing and installation. Their capabilities include advanced laser cutting, robotic laser welding, tube laser cutting, bending and folding, manual welding, CNC milling and machining, powder coating, and more. With a strong emphasis on technology and quality workmanship, Opie Manufacturing Group serves a diverse clientele across various industries, ensuring fast turnaround times and precision in every project.
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