University innovation centre benefits from leading-edge Interflow solutions

The new £32m development at the University of Edinburgh’s Easter Bush Campus provides veterinary students and university staff with specialist research facilities, as well as teaching laboratories, offices and an exhibition space.

The project, which features specialist building solutions from Interflow UK, forms part of the University’s ambitious programme of work in line with the campus master plan at Easter Bush, which has delivered a European Centre of Excellence in Animal Sciences and Food Security.

Interflow ensured the basement at this important, landmark scheme was watertight by providing DOYMA solutions.

The waterproofing of the basement was carried out in conjunction with a Sika tanking membrane along with the specified DOYMA Curaflex 8000/M/T/S 8-way retrofit manifold, through which 250 diameter pre-insulated district heating pipes and ancillary services are ducted. Because a number of the services penetrations were not perpendicular to the structure, Interflow were required to undertake a site survey prior to preparation of the manufacturing drawing. The resultant manifold had to be manufactured in five sections and then carefully abutted, fixed and sealed on site to ensure the life-long performance was not impaired.

The DOYMA Curaflex manifold, with Curaflex C gaskets, is guaranteed gastight and watertight for 25 years and is covered by the DOYMA insurance company backed warranty.

Interflow is the UK installer and distributor of a specialist range of products for the built environment, designed to enhance, add value and increase sustainability across commercial and public sectors, thereby helping customers save energy and reduce their carbon footprint. The company’s extensive range of solutions is the first choice for developers and specifiers across the UK.

DOYMA products used on the Edinburgh University scheme represent the very best in German engineering and were the perfect choice for the innovation hub.

The innovation centre and campus hub adopts an iconic form. Comprising two distinct elements that embrace a full height atrium space, it acts as gateway to the Easter Bush Campus, which is home to the world renowned Roslin Institute.

The facilities are also available for external organisations to use and the aim is to attract and develop bioscience companies at different levels of maturity, including company start-ups and spin off commercial activities.

With its western side clad in local stone and a ‘living wall’ and its eastern side appearing to float above ground, the building has quickly become an icon for the University.

The use of Interflow’s specialist installation expertise and the leading-edge DOYMA products ensures the new centre will continue to provide world-leading research into tackling important global challenges.