Innovative panel technology from Kingspan Insulated Panels has been used in the construction of the new £34 million National Biomanufacturing Centre (NBC) in Speke. Designed by architects The Fairhursts Design Group, the centre encompasses biopharmaceutical drug design development and flexible GMP manufacture for early stage clinical trials.
The centre, described as likely to be to the first half of the 21st Century what the computer was to the second half of the 20th, will be pivotal in developing a wide variety of novel biopharmaceutical ideas from inception to early clinical trials - with massive potential medical benefits.
A smooth and aesthetically appealing modern solution for the ultra-clean bio-production facility’s wall envelope was achieved using the totally flat wall panelling system, Kingspan Optimo. Peter Austin, of constructors Morgan Professional Services, explains:
“'Buildings such as these are hugely technically complex and their simple forms belie the challenges of their construction. The trick here was to specify a product that could be installed quickly, allowing the internal fit out of services to commence at the earliest opportunity.
“We chose Optimo panels for this project because in addition to being quick and easy to install they provide a 'visually clean' aesthetic that is wholly in keeping with the function of the building.”
The Kingspan Optimo system is suitable for all building applications and has no cavities, gaps, cold bridges or interstitial condensation risk, allowing it to achieve reliable thermal performance and insulation continuity. All longitudinal joints have a factory fitted seal; and the system complies with building regulations for air leakage of 10m³ /hr/m² or better.
The NBC was funded through the Northwest Regional Development Agency the European Union’s Objective One programme and the Department of Trade and Industry. It is operated commercially by Eden Biodesign Ltd.
Pre-engineered Kingspan Optimo panels are LPCB certified to LPS 1181 Grade EXT-B and are BS EN IS0 9002 quality approved with a guaranteed long term performance of up to 30 years to first maintenance and an overall life expectancy of up to 40 years or more.