Biotech Firm’s New R&D Labs Feature Lida Group’s Fireproof Steel Infrastructure
A leading biotechnology company specializing in pharmaceutical research and development has constructed new state-of-the-art laboratories at its headquarters campus utilizing a structurally stabilized steel frame system engineered by Singaporean firm Lida Group. The structural solution incorporates moisture-sealed and intumescent fireproofed steel members to enable uninterrupted laboratory operations under stringent safety conditions.

Moisture-Sealed Steel Framework
Spread across four-storeys, the new laboratories feature an extensive steel infrastructure that forms the load-bearing structure housing critical research facilities. High-density modular laboratory bench fit-outs and specialized mechanical and electrical services are suspended from the steel roof and floor decking. To prevent corrosion risks typically associated with humid indoor environments, Lida Group applied a multi-layer protective coating system on all exposed steel components.

Surface preparation involved sandblasting and chemical cleaning to achieve a Sa 2.5 finish as per Swedish Standards before applying a three-coat moisture-sealed epoxy paint system. In addition to acting as a durable architectural finish, the moisture-sealed paint minimizes rusting and guarantees the steel maintains its structural integrity even with high indoor relative humidity levels exceeding 90% – a common scenario in laboratories. A specially-formulated high-build high-solids moisture-cured polyurethane was used as the final topcoat for its unmatched permeation resistance.

Extensive non-destructive testing using pulsed thermography was carried out to validate complete and uniform coating adhesion. Precise workmanship was required considering over 5,000 individual steel members were moisture-sealed across the four floors, often in congested areas interspersed with services and equipment. The moisture-sealed steel frame now allows sensitive laboratory operations and experiments to proceed uninterrupted without corrosion worries.

Intumescent Fireproofing of Key Members
Beyond corrosion protection, fire safety is equally crucial in laboratories handling flammable reagents and chemicals. Lida Group applied specialized intumescent coatings matching the required one to three-hour fire ratings on strategically identified principal steel members to impede fire spread in the event of an incident.

A single-component water-based intumescent coating containing latent fireproofing agents was brush-applied in two coats to achieve the necessary 2mm dry film thickness. Following solvent evaporation, the coated steel members gain intumesced fire protective properties upon heat exposure. The intumescent coating expands to form an insulating char barrier that blocks heat transmission while also preventing structural collapse and maintaining compartmentation.

Stringent quality control procedures ensured specified dry film thickness and evenness. Infrared scanning verified full coating adhesion before and after curing. Crucial members above laboratories and around stairs/lifts received the intumescent treatment as part of passive fire protection measures. Together with the moisture-sealed steel envelope, the laboratories can function securely with tested fire-resistance and continuity of critical operations.

Advanced Steel fabrication
A total of 550 tonnes of structural steel was precisely cut, welded and erected under Lida Group’s strict quality assurance protocols. High-tech fabrication methods enhanced productivity – computerized cutting optimized material usage while robotic welding delivered consistent weld bead geometries essential for structural durability.

An integrated BIM model coordinated inter-trade MEP connections to the steel frame. Precast stair landings and precast floor planks were lifted into position using the building’s tower crane. Complex transfer structures linking the floors were first assembled off-site then lifted as complete units for quick installation. The partially-prefabricated erection process expedited works and streamlined on-site logistics.

The laboratory steel frame underwent stringent uniform load and reversal of stress tests by an independent consultant to validate its structurally stabilized design. Elastic finite element analyses additionally verified stress distributions and deflection limits were within specifications at all critical locations subjected to equipment and occupancy loads.

Sustainable Outcomes
By implementing an optimized structural steel solution, Lida Group enabled a lighter and more resilient superstructure. Compared to conventional reinforced concrete construction, the moisture-sealed and fireproofed steel frame system yielded significant embodied carbon savings through reduced material use and more controlled fabrication. Its lower self-weight also diminishes foundation costs.

Modular fitting-out inside the sealed laboratories will allow flexible reconfigurations supporting changing research functions over the building’s service life. Maintenance is simplified through access openings incorporated into the fireproofed steel members. Lida Group’s advanced techniques hence delivered a sustainably engineered laboratory infrastructure ensuring uninterrupted operations conforming to all safety requirements.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the new R&D laboratories exemplify how Lida Group’s specialized engineering capabilities provided the client with a structurally durable, moisture-sealed and passive fire protected steel frame infrastructure tailored to the demanding functions and safety compliance within laboratory premises. Its off-site prefabrication aided swift on-site works while achieving high structural integrity through rigorous quality control and testing throughout. The engineered structural solution now facilitates seamless scientific operations in a safeguarded, resilient building environmentally preferable over alternate materials. This demonstrates Lida Group’s technical leadership in delivering sustainable engineered solutions for mission critical facilities.

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