Big Foot Lends its Support to University Research Facility

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26 July 2016
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Sussex-based Big Foot Systems supplied a range of rooftop support solutions to a prestigious university research facility. 

A state-of-the-art facility, the project required extensive mechanical and electrical installations for the biomass plant and specialist equipment needed for its bioenergy research. The client used Big Foot Systems' HD Cubes, HD Frames and fabricated solutions as part of this impressive project to support the building services.

The facility is a hub of technology and research excellence in the development of second generation biofuels produced from wastes and non-food crops and features seven laboratories. This impressive facility required a range of rooftop services which needed support, including chillers, air handling units, fans and ducts and a large elevated Louvre Screen.

​Roof Support Solution

​Because the roof was constructed using a delicate single ply membrane, a support solution was needed that would not damage it. The contractor on the project, therefore, specified Big Foot's non-penetrative supports as the ideal solution, selecting a broad range of products to support these services.

Following on from the initial work, Big Foot Systems was then approached to assist in the re-installation of the surrounding rooftop louvre screen to meet both acoustic and aesthetic demands set by the local Planning Authority. As space around the periphery of the roof was exceptionally tight and penetrating the roof or parapet wall was unacceptable, a bespoke non-penetrative solution was required. 

Big Foot Systems worked closely with the contractor to design the support solution. The result was four different methods of support, dependant on location, some of which cantilevered off existing Big Foot Systems products supporting other plant.
"Single-ply membrane is an increasingly popular choice for flat roofs, but this can make it tricky to install plant on due to its fragility" explains Sam Birch, Product Manager at Big Foot Systems. “Our products are ideal for this type of rooftop as they are non-penetrative, repeatable support structures that offer a cost effective, easily installed solution which does not damage the roof membrane.”
​Big Foot System’s popular Heavy Duty Support range includes the Big Foot HD Cube framework specifically manufactured to support heavier building services on flat roofs. 

​Supporting VRF and AHU

​Meanwhile, Big Foot Systems’ HD frames are designed for each project with a frame similar in design and configuration to that of a standard light duty frame product but utilising larger and longer sectional bars, enabling the support of large arrays of VRF/ VRV or a large heavy unit such as an AHU.

Big Foot Systems' products and systems are quick and easy to install ensuring project cost and time clarity, thus reducing the need for complicated, time-consuming and expensive detailing. Offering improved roof aesthetics, Big Foot Systems provides engineered solutions that are innovative in design, robust and repeatable. 

Big Foot combines market-leading products and services, which include system design and on-site support. Available to install in all weathers using familiar componentry, the company creates all systems with safety, security and simplicity in mind. Finally, Big Foot Systems offers short manufacture and delivery lead times to help a project meet its schedule and stay within budget.
​For further information on all products and services offered by Big Foot Systems email: [email protected] or telephone 01323 844355.
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