Location:
The Calgary Centre for Innovative Technology (CCIT), situated within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Calgary, provides the venue for world-class research capabilities while furthering external collaborations with experts in the fields of medicine, kinesiology, geology, geophysics, environmental design, industrial design and the sciences.
Ten years of planning were completed prior to the construction of this engineering research facility that encompasses a 6,690-square-metre structure, made up of two high bays and an office-laboratory block. An energy high bay area concentrates on natural resource technologies and enables researchers to conduct real-time monitoring of structures and testing of full-size elements with the objective of modifying building codes and developing new materials.
Earth Tech provided the design for the mechanical and electrical services installations for the new building, including all necessary infrastructure works. The building was designed and constructed using sequential tendering methods within the framework of a fast-track program, resulting in high levels of cooperation and commitment between the owner, design team and all contractors.
Within laboratory areas, the high volume of exhaust air is directed across heat recovery coils that extract heat for subsequent reuse in the ventilation system, thereby reducing overall energy costs. A further system enhancement includes the rapid exhaust of potentially explosive gasses within the energy high bay that may be generated during experiments. An integrated system of gas detectors and controls were installed to provide the necessary interface to a number of strategically located exhaust fans.
The electrical services were designed to integrate the owner requirements associated with offices, laboratories and semi-industrial high bay environments. Particular challenges included the creation of a cave-like visualization laboratory where the ceiling, walls and floor can be used to project images as part of the university’s arch programs. Computing and information systems were designed to link staff, experimental facilities, computing capabilities, databases and other information resources.
The CCIT facility allows researchers from industry, as well as from other faculties, universities and institutes, to combine their expertise to develop timely and innovative solutions, products and technologies that improve the quality of life for all.
