AluK's aluminium building systems have been supplied for the new main entrance building at the University of South Wales (previously University of Glamorgan).
Specified by Lawray Architects, in collaboration with John Weaver (Contractors), AluK doors and curtain walling systems were installed to create a new focal point for the entrance of the university.
Combining design flexibility with functionality, the SL52 Curtain Walling System in RAL7038 Matt colour was fitted in two areas in the main entrance of Block B, using the mullion drainage method. This system helps to create impressive glass façades that enhance the aesthetics of a building, but also provides the performance required to meet and exceed current standards.
Meanwhile, 13 structurally enhanced aluminium swing door framing systems (GT55 NI) were used for heavy traffic areas where no insulation was required. This system provides the ultimate in security, certified to LPS 1175:SR2 and by 'Secured by Design'; it is one of the most secure swing door systems available on the market.
"AluK provided us with the technical support required, both at pre-tender and site stages", says Chris Evans, Associate at Lawray Architects. "The SL52 curtain walling system was designed in accordance with the required wind loads and incorporated high level automatic opening lights linked to a Building Management System to assist with the building natural ventilation system. The feedback to date has been excellent and the product complements the rest of the building to create a new front face."
Lawray Architects required a company that would be able to fulfil the project requirements, not only in terms of the functionality, high quality and aesthetics of the systems supplied, but also in terms of service offering and ethics. Chris Evans adds: “We’ve previously worked with AluK and continue to specify AluK systems on almost all of our projects in South Wales. The fact that their manufacturing plant is based in Newport sits well ethically and ensures optimum delivery times for the product to get to site.”
Another key factor for specification was AluK's new collection of BIM components. Chris Evans explains: "The BIM components enable our staff to be able to input the product ranges into our REVIT modelling software. This increases the intelligence levels to the model itself and assists us with items such as thermal modelling, daylight factors and wind load calculations. Having this sort of information to hand reinforces the company’s forward thinking attitude towards product innovation."
