Construction and Design Consulting

MONA Pharos – Mechanical System Assessment

31/01/2020 By EpesEditor

MONA Pharos – Mechanical System Assessment Slide 1

MONA Pharos – Mechanical System Assessment

Mechanical Engineering

The Pharos extension to MONA in Hobart was commissioned is 2018, however staff raised ongoing concerns about the performance of the mechanical services systems.

EPES was engaged by MONA to undertake an assessment of the mechanical services design and installation with a view to identifying and providing recommendations for rectification of the identified issues. Our scope included assessing:

1. Air distribution and air flows

2. Building envelope issues and impact to space conditions

3. Building management system

4. Chilled and heating water systems and configurations

5. Commissioning records and processes

6. Exhaust systems

Project Information

Location: Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Client: Museum of Old and New Art, MONA
Engagement: Engineering Consultant
Sectors: Buildings
Services: Building Services, Commissioning Assistance, Construction and Design Consulting, Independent Reviews and Audits
Year: 2018

EPES subsequently provided set of recommendations with technical details for the rectification of the identified issues.

The Problem

EPES reviewed in detail the issues identified and the performance of mechanical and air handling systems within the spaces. The objective of the review was to identify practical rectification works which could be undertaken with minimal impact to the existing facility.

Analysis and Implementation

Ventilation air quantity calculations were performed based on a required air change rate for the space volume and process. Ventilation equipment and ductwork was designed to maximise pick up and minimise additional noise whilst moving the additional quantity of ventilation air. Intake air was positioned to ensure clean air was drawn into the building.

Outcome

EPES provided recommendations such as rectification of installation defects, pipework modifications to chilled and heating water circuits, and addressing building related issues such as sealing of plenums and culverts. Rectification works needed to be undertaken retrospectively with the building operational.

It is preferred to ensure that design and construction is controlled in such a way that performance related issues are either avoided or addressed during the commissioning stages. This relies on using experienced engineers throughout the process.

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Smithfield – Precision Oxy Cut

31/01/2020 By EpesEditor

Smithfield – Precision Oxy Cut Slide 1

Smithfield Precision Oxy Cut

Mechanical Ventilation Design

EPES were engaged by Sell and Parker to prepare a compliant ventilation solution to address poor internal air quality due to plasma and oxy cutting processes.

Our scope for this project included:

1. Assessment of ventilation issues within the Plasma and Oxy Cutting Areas

2. Identification of constraints for installation of ventilation plant and equipment

3. Prepare contract design drawings and technical specifications for the recommended solution

Project Information

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Client: Sell and Parker
Engagement: Design Consultant
Sectors: Buildings, Industrial
Services: Building Services, Construction and Design Consulting, Independent Reviews and Audits, Specialist Analysis
Year: 2014-2019

4. Ventilation calculations, equipment selections and controls

Sell and Parker required better ventilation for occupants of the space.

The Problem

The source of contaminants (smoke) was associated with plasma and oxy cutting, and existing ventilation provisions were inadequate. Significantly greater air quantities were required to maintain acceptable internal air quality. Generally, the ventilation system was subject to the requirements of Australian Standards.

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

Compliant ventilation system custom designed for the space and the cutting processes being used, whilst minimising impact to current operations.

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Inverell Hospital – Redevelopment Stage 1B

31/01/2020 By EpesEditor

Inverell Hospital – Redevelopment Stage 1B Slide 1

Inverell Hospital Redevelopment Stage 1B

Parts 1 – 9 Concept Design, Design Development, Contract Documents and Construction Services

This project involved the major refurbishment of the original hospital building which was built in the 1930’s served by a wide variety of air conditioning and heating systems or varying age and condition.

The refurbished facility will include Oral Health, Ambulatory Care, Women’s & Children and Office areas or Education and Telehealth.

Our role in this project is to develop a practical and robust solution to the ongoing provision of heating, cooling and ventilation for the changed building usage and maintain consistency with Stage 1A design.

Project Information

Location: Inverell, New South Wales, Australia
Client: Health Infrastructure
Engagement: Mechanical Services and Medical Gases
Sectors: Buildings, Hospitals & Healthcare
Services: Building Services, Commissioning Assistance, Construction and Design Consulting, Digital Engineering
Year: 2019

Additionally, we were engaged as the Watching Brief consultant for Stage 1A ($30m budget) which includes a new Clinical Services Building with Emergency Department, Paediatric and Maternity Facilities, Palliative Care, medical Imaging, Operating Theatres, Day Surgery and new main entry.

The Problem

The existing building has various systems installed throughout the life of the hospital for heating, cooling and ventilation with poor levels of compliance with current standards and guidelines.

Several challenges were identified:

1. Complex building geometry and constraints

2. Gaps between current day standards and what was existing

3. No documentation for existing systems

4. Significant redundant equipment left in place

5. Very little consistency of types of systems

Analysis and Implementation

With a brownfield site such as this, there is very little choice other than detailed survey works to properly understand what systems and equipment are in place, what is redundant, what is working and its condition, maintenance history and compliance.

We commenced our work with extensive surveys of existing equipment, recording existing systems and the areas they served. Additionally, we discussed the performance of existing systems with staff and maintenance personnel to get a picture of how the existing systems were performing.

Through our engagement on Stage 1A, we were also able to align our design decisions with the technology and approach used in the new building further simplifying the maintenance tasks for local staff. This approach offers many benefits to the LHD by enabling consistent maintenance contracts across both stages of the project.

We opted to introduce a chilled water plant, consistent in technology and controls to that of Stage 1A and to interconnect with existing hot water boilers exploiting a surplus in heating capacity. Existing medical gas recirculation were able to be repurposed for the new usage.

Outcome

Simple design solution tailored to the long-term use of the building:

Better temperature control and heating performance in cold winter conditions
Capitalise on surplus existing heating capacity reducing new equipment
Consistent equipment and controls across the site, reduced maintenance costs
Ease of maintenance
Long term solution, 25 years to major upgrade/replacement

Take the time to study existing systems and understand the constraints of users in rural or remote areas. Consistency and simplicity is key to successful outcomes.

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Port Macquarie Base Hospital – PACS and Renal Redevelopment

31/01/2020 By EpesEditor

Port Macquarie Base Hospital – PACS and Renal Redevelopment Slide 1

Port Macquarie Base Hospital – PACS and Renal Redevelopment

Mechanical Services

The project consisted of the completed refurbishment of existing redundant theatre precinct and renal dialysis unit to provide new PACS (Patient Admissions Centre) and new Renal Dialysis unit (RDU) at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

The Problem

Due to the significant change in usage (existing theatre precinct) and the age of the original installation works (circa 1992) there was a significant step in the design process to gain a detailed understanding of the existing systems and how they operated.

We spent considerable time studying ventilation and smoke control standards which applied in 1992 to develop a strategy for the mechanical services design.

Project Information

Location: Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
Client: Mid North Coast Local Health District
Engagement: Consultant
Sectors: Buildings, Hospitals and Healthcare
Services: Building Services, Commissioning Assistance, Construction and Design Consulting, Independent Reviews and Audits
Year: 2016

There were several issues identified during this analysis that required an integrated approach with the rest of the hospital, including ensuring that adjacent zones were not affected.

Existing systems serving the spaces were circa 25 years old and in poor condition.

Analysis and Implementation

We evaluated the suitability of existing systems for repurposing however decided that given the age of the existing systems and the likely time before the area would be accessible again, that the existing air handling plant and ductwork should be replaced with new. It was decided that new plant should be located for ease of maintenance consistent with existing maintenance practices already in place.

Existing capacity from central chillers, boilers and pumps were adequate given the change in usage being a lower load intensity than previously.

New systems would be introduced which satisfy current AusHFG requirements.

Outcome

EPES designed new mechanical systems for the new spaces with as much consistency and integration with existing central services as possible, as well as connectivity with BMS systems already in place at the site.

New air handling plant and smoke control systems were installed matching existing maintenance and operational practices at the site with minimal impact.

Taking time during design to understand the site, existing processes and the personnel responsible for managing assets allows design to closely consider the end user.

Systems serving healthcare facilities are required to be reliable, ensuring that design properly considers the end user greatly assists in achieving reliability.

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WestConnex – M4-M5 Link

10/10/2019 By EpesEditor

WestConnex – M4-M5 Link Slide 1

WestConnex - M4-M5 Link

Pressurised Services and Dewatering Concept Strategy

The M4-M5 link is part of the WestConnex project in Sydney and involves the construction of twin 7.5km tunnels to link the new M4 at Haberfield and the new M5 at St Peters. EPES were engaged by LSBJV to perform conceptual design methodology for installation of pressurised temporary services for use during construction.

1. Dewatering systems

2. Compressed air

3. Industrial water

The works include the determination of installation, testing, inspection and maintenance requirements for the pressurised services systems, as well as nominating pumps, piping and valving requirements.

Project Information

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Client: Lend Lease, Samsung, Bouygues Joint Venture (LSBJV)
Engagement: Temporary Works Design Engineer
Sectors: Industrial, Road Infrastructure (Tunnels)
Services: Construction and Design Consulting, Independent Reviews and Audits, Infrastructure Engineering, Piping Engineering, Specialist Analysis, Water and Waste Water
Year: 2019

The Problem

Pressurised services are complex on large construction projects and can be high risk in the event of a failure. They can also be highly problematic for construction works if they do not perform as required by the demands of the construction process.

Recognising the size and complexity of this project, as well as a need to ensure consistency across the various construction fronts, the objective of this design was to collate and coordinate all of the variable pieces of information and perspectives and achieve a common approach to pressurised services installation.

Analysis and Implementation

Several meetings with stakeholders in design, project management, construction and procurement were undertaken to collate the different ideas and information associated with the works. Design documents were developed, along with robust and practical engineering design to ensure consistency, standardisation and a clear path toward compliance with standards.

Outcome

Through this process significant commercial advantages were achieved through standardisation and sharing of plant and equipment, enabling early ordering of piping and valves and exploiting the opportunities of economies of scale.

Undertaking early planning and design concept development, as well as opening communication with various stakeholders early in the project life cycle there are significant commercial benefits as well as reduced level of risk.

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Gosford Hospital – Operating Theatre Upgrade

03/09/2019 By EpesEditor

Gosford Hospital – Operating Theatre Upgrade Slide 1

Gosford Hospital - Operating Theatre Upgrade

Mechanical Engineering

EPES were engaged to undertake compliance reviews and testing of existing operating theatres precinct and baseline performance prior to opening of additional theatres. This included verification of theatre air handling systems with regards to NSW Health legacy and current (AusHFG) Engineering Services Guidelines as well as legacy and current Australian Standards.

Scope generally included:

Project Information

Location: Gosford, New South Wales, Australia
Client: Central Coast Local Health District
Engagement: Design Consultant
Sectors: Buildings, Hospitals and Healthcare
Services: Asset Management, Building Services, Commissioning Assistance, Construction and Design Consulting, Independent Reviews and Audits
Year: 2018

EPES provided recommendations and contract documentation for works to be undertaken to upgrade operating theatres precinct to maintain compliance with current AusHFG requirements. EPES provided ongoing technical support and guidance.

The Problem

Performing any works or investigations within an operating theatre precinct presents many logistical challenges in terms of access, interruptions and critical performance of air handling systems in these areas. Also, given the age of the equipment serving the existing theatres technical data was difficult to source from suppliers and manufacturers (they don’t exist anymore).

EPES have been involved in many projects where upgrade works have not considered the original design intention of existing systems. This creates expensive and disruptive problems negatively effecting system reliability and performance.

Analysis and Implementation

Communication with stakeholders is crucial to gaining the required access to critical areas such as operating theatre precincts, as well as being highly flexible with timing and short notice requirements (e.g. emergency theatre demands).

Additionally, at EPES we have engineers who’ve had experience working with air handling systems for over 40 years. This understanding enables us an advantage in being able to trouble shoot and define system operation largely in the absence of as-built documentation and supplier technical literature.

Outcome

EPES were able to prepare contract design documentation that supplemented the intended original operation of the system, whilst upgrading to current performance requirements.

Using experience engineers with a track record of working and modifying legacy systems is critical for successful outcomes.

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Melbourne Metro – Tunnel

03/09/2019 By EpesEditor

Melbourne Metro – Tunnel Slide 1

Melbourne Metro Tunnel

Temporary Works Engineering Packages

EPES were engaged by CYP to undertake various design packages related to temporary works during construction, including:

1. Concept design and planning assistance for pressurised services (dewatering, compressed air, recycled water and potable water) used in excavation works at the CBD North and South zones (covering 8 shafts and interconnecting tunnels)

2. Engineering design for adit and cavern hooks, cross over supports and shaft brackets, and verification of shaft service ladders and top shaft brackets

Generally, design packages incorporated engineering analysis, reviews for constructability, safety in design and coordination with construction teams to ensure that design was in alignment with site expectations.

Project Information

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Client: Cross Yarra Partnership (CYP)
Engagement: Engineering Consultant
Sectors: Industrial, Rail Infrastructure (Tunnels)
Services: Construction and Design Consulting, Independent Reviews and Audits, Infrastructure Engineering, Piping Engineering, Specialist Analysis, Water and Waste Water
Year: 2019

The Problem

Pressurised services are complex on large construction projects and can be high risk in the event of a failure. Identifying the correct design loadings, as well as risks associated with operation in a live construction environment were considered in the engineering analysis. Relative conservatism is this type of design package is pragmatic, whilst understanding the temporary nature of the works.

Analysis and Implementation

EPES performed analysis is accordance with the mandated standards and codes such as AS1170 for loading, AS4041 for pressure piping and AS4100 for steel structures. Close consultation with site construction enabled coordination with actual installation constraints as well as a means of clarifying design cases, limitations and risks.

Outcome

The outcome was a comprehensive design package with appropriate levels of buy in from temporary works managers, site teams and procurement. Design documents were prepared well ahead of the being required for site works which enabled proper planning to be undertaken and communication to respective site personnel.

Well organised and planned design work dramatically reduces both technical, safety and commercial risks for all stakeholders on a project.

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8LWR Seismic Analysis, Water Treatment Facility, New Zealand

03/09/2019 By EpesEditor

8LWR Seismic Analysis, Water Treatment Facility, Waikari, New Zealand Slide 1

8LWR Seismic Analysis, Water Treatment Facility, Waikari, New Zealand

Mechanical Structural Analysis

EPES were engaged by Pall Australia to perform an earthquake loading analysis of the 8LWR structure designed by Pall for support of water treatment equipment in the Waikari region of New Zealand.

Analysis was performed in accordance with NZS 1170.5 Earthquake Actions New Zealand and AS/NZS 4100 Steel Structures. The water treatment facility is required to remain operational following an earthquake with a design life of 80 years.

EPES were to determine of the structure would satisfy the standards requirements for seismic loading in this region.

Project Information

Location: Waikari, New Zealand
Client: Pall Australia
Engagement: Specialist Finite Element Analysis
Sectors: Industrial, Water and Waste Water
Services: Construction and Design Consulting, Digital Engineering, Infrastructure Engineering, Piping Engineering, Specialist Analysis, Water and Waste Water
Year: 2019

The Problem

The region has high seismic activity and high design loadings were calculated due to the stringent requirements of NZS 1170.5 and the requirement for the water treatment facility to remain in operation shortly after a design seismic event.

Analysis and Implementation

EPES utilised AS/NZS 1170.0 and AS1170.1 to determine design loadings for the proposed VR structure and MF module rack assembly. Design analysis was undertaken following NZS 1170.5 and application of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using SolidWorks.

Analysis determined that for the MF Rack Assembly, higher than acceptable deflections were evident in the analysis and that in order to satisfy the design criteria, additional bracing was recommended. The VR frame was within acceptable limits.

Outcome

We identified deficiencies in the designed structure and methods required to rectify in order to achieve compliance with the local New Zealand earthquake design requirements. This was validated using Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

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Construction and Design Consulting

MONA Pharos – Mechanical System Assessment

Mechanical Engineering

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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Smithfield Precision Oxy Cut

Mechanical Ventilation Design

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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Inverell Hospital Redevelopment Stage 1B

Parts 1 – 9 Concept Design, Design Development, Contract Documents and Construction Services

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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Port Macquarie Base Hospital – PACS and Renal Redevelopment

Mechanical Services

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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WestConnex - M4-M5 Link

Pressurised Services and Dewatering Concept Strategy

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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Gosford Hospital - Operating Theatre Upgrade

Mechanical Engineering

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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Melbourne Metro Tunnel

Temporary Works Engineering Packages

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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8LWR Seismic Analysis, Water Treatment Facility, Waikari, New Zealand

Mechanical Structural Analysis

The Problem

Analysis and Implementation

Outcome

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