Capella biosciences research laboratory

VES collaborated with PCE Ltd to ensure the Capella biosciences laboratory could be constructed off-site while still meeting stringent vibration control requirements.

PCE Ltd, a leading design and build specialist contractor of offsite engineered Hybrid structures, collaborated with Kier Construction on the Capella biosciences research laboratory for the University of Cambridge. They engaged VES to assist in the design process by ensuring vibration control requirements were met.

The original building design was an on-site in situ concrete structure by Consultant Engineer Arup, but due to limited construction site space, PCE wanted to ensure their offsite construction philosophy would mean the finished structure complied with stringent vibration control requirements. This vibration control was essential due to the extremely vibration-sensitive laboratory equipment to be installed on completion of the facility.

While initial calculations by PCE inferred the specification could be achieved, they required specialist knowledge to assist with design concepts and prove by post-construction physical site testing that the design met vibration specification requirements. They therefore contacted Professor Paul Reynolds of VES to provide this assistance.

Developing the building design

VES worked with PCE, the main contractor and the client’s design team, to develop the initial PCE design concept of precast concrete prestressed solid floor units, supported on composite steel beams, with an in situ concrete topping that had a reduced floor thickness compared to the original client’s concept of an in situ concrete structure.

Full-scale testing

Following the construction of a floor level, VES conducted a full scale test to determine the actual vibration response. Test results showed the offsite engineered theoretical design approach met the requirements of the original specification.

The collaboration between PCE and VES demonstrated that offsite construction methods can be adopted for buildings that require stringent vibration control, in line with the growing trend and Governmental drive for more construction to be based on offsite construction methods.

Garry Langston, Pre-Construction Director for PCE, said: