A highly successful collaboration between the Vibration Engineering Section (VES) of the University of Exeter and PCE Ltd enabled stringent vibration control requirements to be met, according to a recent report on the University of Exeter website.
PCE worked with Kier Construction on the new Capella biosciences research laboratory in Cambridge. VES were engaged during the design process to "...assist in the design process by ensuring vibration control requirements were met". Professor Paul Reynolds of VES was contacted in order to provide the assistance required.
PCE's Hybrid offsite construction approach helped mitigate against the constraints presented by the limited amount of space available on site, says the article. This approach was also to prove highly successful with regard to the vibration control requirements of the finished structure.
"This vibration control was essential due to the extremely vibration-sensitive laboratory equipment to be installed on completion of the facility."
"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."
The Vibration Engineering Section of the University of Exeter are global experts in vibration serviceability, dynamic analysis, testing and monitoring of large civil engineering structures including bridges, buildings and grandstands.