Introduction
Surespan designed and manufactured multiple recessed floor access hatches, for the construction of the Halley VI British Antarctic Research Station.
The project
The 22 million unique and innovative research station was designed by Faber Maunsell and Hugh Broughton Architects, and built by Matlock-based Morrison Construction.
Objectives;
- Minimize the environmental footprint of the station.
- Provide a safe, comfortable, and stimulating environment to live in.
- To be able to be fully relocatable inland.
- To allow the station to climb above the annually rising snow levels.
The research station comprises seven interlinked modules on hydraulic legs fitted with skis, enabling the units to be towed into new positions. The blue modules contain bedrooms, laboratories, and office areas. The red module features a brightly lit, double-height space that is used for social activities.
Halley Vi is the world’s first re-locatable and award-winning research facility providing scientists with state-of-the-art laboratories and living accommodation.
Products supplied
Surespan design and manufactured a total of 27 HIAC Recessed Floor Hatches. These hatches provide the access an escape requirement for the structure and are located throughout the research station.
We supplied;
- 19no Recessed Floor Hatches double door, fire rated to 30 minutes 46″ x 42″
- 3no Recessed Floor Doors Circular 32″Diameter
- 4no Recessed 30″ x 30″ Lift Out Fire Rated
- 1no. Recessed Floor Door 42″ x 42″ fire rated for 30 minutes
The Features:
The hatches supplied feature a fire rating of between 30-60 minutes and radius corners instead of the standard square corners.