Using our in-house expertise to radically enhance the future of cancer research
The Francis Crick Institute- Client UKCMRI Construction Limited
- Location London, UK
- Status Completed
Francis Crick’s joint discovery of the DNA helix structure transformed science. This building, too, will change the world of science. Fittingly, we undertook a huge amount of research to deliver with certainty: we modelled and analysed numerous scenarios associated with the incredibly stringent vibration criteria; the spatial and electromagnetic compatibility of MEP and research equipment; and the requirements for a system to recirculate a vast 430m3 per second of fresh air.
Redefining engineering excellence
Our modular and precast solutions delivered programme and logistics efficiencies, enabling us to overcome the complexities of constructing a highly sophisticated building within a ‘landlocked’ site. Manufactured in our specialist facility at a rate of 150 units a week, our MEP modules ranged from horizontal distribution and software-loaded units through to those that we custom-built to accommodate the supply and extraction ducts that feed into highly sophisticated particulate arrestance filters. We also manufactured more than 2,000 pipework sections and over 5,000 precast components (including the world’s largest offsite manufactured stainless-steel reinforced plunge columns). All these were delivered in line with just-in-time principles.
Our teams also integrated specialist equipment including MRI scanners, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, electron microscopes and super-resolution microscopes.
‘Built twice’ using Digital Engineering (DE) expertise
Our award-winning DE team ‘constructed’ the Institute several times and rehearsed every major plant installation in the digital model, including the extensive below-ground plant rooms. From these, we developed visual method statements that communicated safe sequences for complex tasks. This was critical for installing larger items such as a 40-tonne boiler, which had only 50mm clearance.
We set up a Construction Working Group, run with the client, local residents and members of Camden Council, and our staff managed an interactive visitor centre using the BIM model to engage the public and inform them of progress and upcoming milestones.
Optimised environmental performance
Thanks to a wealth of environmental features, this was the first laboratory to meet 2010 energy regulations. These included innovative glazing and shading; high-efficiency plant; and lighting control and ventilation systems with variable-volume flow.
Our role
We were engaged as principal contractor under a JCT design and build contract at RIBA Stage 3 with responsibility for the lead designer. We delivered 84,000m2 of laboratories at containment levels 2, 3 and 4 and support facilities within a confined site opposite St Pancras Station.
Key facts
25,000 smart BMS sensors throughout the building
1,900 researchers and support staff accommodated
45% of the building's MEP preassembled off site
12,560m2 dedicated to laboratory space
1,700m2 of rooftop solar panels installed
40 apprentices recruited from the local borough
Key benefits
Our capabilities in Digital Engineering and offsite manufacturing enabled us to design, assemble and deliver 4,660 MEP modules, backed up by 1,900 factory tests. Modules weighed up to 25 tonnes and were engineered to exacting tolerances for installation within ‘impossible’ spaces.