A Case Study in Innovative Construction Solutions
Victor Harbour Medical Centre by True Steel Frames wins high commendation in the ASI steel awards
The project was to provide light gauge steel frames for the upper story of the Victor Harbour Medical Centre. Covering almost 2300 square meters, this represents the largest single building constructed by True Steel Frames. Meticulous detailing resulted in an exceptionally efficient final structure, achieved through the minimization of structural steel, maximising cold formed steel, and thinking ahead the logistical challenges.
Challenges of scale
The Victor Harbour Medical Centre presented some interesting considerations that had to be resolved in order for Adelaide-based True Steel Frames to initially win the project and then to deliver on these promises.
This large building covered almost 2300m2 and was the largest single building True Steel Frames had supplied in their history.
Cost reduction
Initially, the building was designed with an all-structural steel framework, complemented by lightweight non-structural LGS for walling.
True Steel Frame’s approach to value engineering focused on minimizing the use of structural steel throughout the build. This was achieved by strategically eliminating various structural steel elements through thoughtful planning and maximizing the use of cold-formed sections whenever feasible.
The design brief specified that window head heights should align with ceilings to achieve a seamless appearance. By thinking innovatively, they crafted the windows in a way that allowed the ceilings to merge into the openings, serving as the reveal. This innovative approach provided a finish which greatly pleased the architect.
Engineering with LGS
One of the significant challenges involved was providing support for the mechanical equipment on the roof without using structural steel. Collaborating with an engineer, True Steel Frames devised a light gauge steel solution using the ENDUROFRAME® building system to uphold the substantial plant platform and eliminate the need for structural steel entirely which was a significant achievement. Roof trusses were up to 17m long with voids incorporated into the truss for ducts, beams, and gutters.
Additionally all the tricky cantilever canopies were able to work without the need for anything other than light gauge steel trusses designed using the ENDUROCADD® software.
Efficient construction
The construction project involved meticulous planning to address various challenges. This included careful consideration of building size, on-site logistics, and design aspects such as truss and wall dimensions to comply with transport regulations. Efficient scheduling of manufacturing and panel stacking was crucial to minimize double handling on-site and optimize load capacity. Due to the school’s location on a busy road, traffic control measures were implemented for each delivery. Deliveries were strategically divided into 6 stages to ensure a steady supply without overcrowding the work site. Coordination with a large commercial crane was also essential to facilitate the installation of frames and trusses on the upper floor.
Frame erection was completed in 28 days, a remarkably swift timeline considering the scale of the project. This expedited progress was facilitated by the minimal need for structural steel and consequently reduced dependency on cranes.
Meticulous staging of the frame erection proved effective as the installer could effortlessly stand walls and trusses in one section before seamlessly transitioning to the next stage without any obstacles. This approach differs from the industry norm, where typically all wall frames are first installed before proceeding to truss installation, potentially impeding access for the installer. One significant advantage of using LGS frames in this project was their lightweight nature, which facilitated the easy handling required during the construction.
Builder satisfaction
Upon completion, the builder, Bella Build and Design, expressed great satisfaction with the frames, highlighting that the construction process was significantly faster than if they had completed with timber frames. Additionally, they emphasized the cleanliness of the site. Very importantly, the builder was thrilled by the substantial cost savings achieved on the project, largely due to the reduction of structural steel.
True Steel Frame’s coordinatation with the builder ensured all parties were on the same page and no surprises arose that could have caused delays.
This project is a great example of how a large building with careful thinking, collaboration with a LGS centric engineer and a strong desire to not compromise on quality over price can still result in an extremely cost effective and timely build.
Would the builder use True Steel Frames again? Absolutely!
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