March 11, 2013

Measuring over 18 metres wide, three metres deep and 10 storeys high, the complex prefabricated services riser was installed over a 4-day period. Full on-site installation of this riser would have normally extended to several months.

Manufactured in eighteen 3-storey high interlinking sections each weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, the riser was transported by road from A.G. Coombs’ large dedicated off-site prefabrication facility in Moorabbin and crane lifted into place on site.

The multi services riser was manufactured and installed as part of A.G. Coombs’ role as specialist design and construct mechanical and HVAC contractor on the Peter Doherty Institute project.

Incorporating air-conditioning and complex exhaust ductwork, including specialist PC4 exhaust systems natural gas and other building services, the risers were designed by A.G. Coombs using 3D CAD and BIM software to benefit from advanced prefabrication methodologies.

A.G. Coombs prefabricates integrated multi services risers and runs, plant assemblies and other building services system components to exacting standards to ensure quality and accuracy leading to ease of manufacture, installation and commissioning. Integrated prefabrication offers a range of benefits including system design, coordination and performance improvements as well as safe access provisions for ongoing operation and maintenance.

For more information on A.G. Coombs’ prefabrication capabilities or our role on this project, please contact A.G. Coombs Projects General Manager, Mr. Mark Mitchell, on 03 9248 2700 or mmitchell@agcoombs.com.au.

About the Peter Doherty Institute project:
The Peter Doherty Institute is being purpose-constructed by Brookfield Multiplex as a specialist facility for research into human infectious diseases and immunity. Designed across 14 levels, the state-of-the-art building will see around 700 specialist staff share resources, equipment and knowledge in a world class setting that will include highly specialised prime containment laboratories, including fully accredited PC2, QC2, PC3, QC3 and PC4 facilities, together with leading microbiology and immunology teaching spaces including a 200-seat auditorium. The Doherty is being built with funds from:

• The Australian Government’s Education Investment Fund: $90 million; and
• The University of Melbourne: $65.8 million.

It is supported by the Victorian Government.

‘For additional information on the Peter Doherty Institute project please visit: http://www.doherty.unimelb.edu.au/project.html.