The University of Manchester’s Alan Gilbert Learning Commons library building, designed by Sheppard Robson, features highly engineered Sotech-Optima FC Secret-Fix rainscreen panels finished in anodised aluminium, providing a similar appearance and reflectivity on every panel.
At the administrative heart of the University campus, the Alan Gilbert Learning Commons building affords students a stimulating 24/7 learning environment by providing more than 1000 flexible study spaces linked to the University library and administrative offices.
The existing 1960’s refectory building was retained, resulting in carbon and cost savings through the incorporation of the original long-span structure into the new building. Cost and environmental benefits were also optimised with the specification of Sotech-Optima FC Eco rainscreen cladding. The Eco variant of the FC offers a simpler and more economical rail carrier system for the fully recyclable aluminium panels.
Key to achieving the designer’s aesthetic and performance requirements was the provision of highly engineered Optima FC rainscreen panels, anodised to provide a similar appearance and reflectivity on each panel. Anodising is unique amongst surface treatments as it integrates totally with the metallic substructure rather than simply being applied to the surface of the aluminium. Providing a totally UV resistant finish, the anodic layer enhances the natural qualities of the aluminium and when combined with Sotech’s manufacturing excellence, provides an exceptionally durable and recyclable flat panel system.
A key design feature was the introduction of visually recessed ribbon glazing set within 1500sqm of Sotech Optima FC anodised aluminium rainscreen panels. The recessed effect is achieved by incorporating a specially designed deep rail carrier system to the primary structure enabling the rainscreen to be projected 400mm forward of the windows and returned at 45 degrees at the head of the panels to meet the window cill. By designing and manufacturing in-house, a bespoke anodised backing plate to conceal the sub-substructure, the shadowgap could be increased from 20mm to 50mm, providing a totally uninterrupted and visually striking linear effect to the façade.
To ensure that the quality and finish of the panels for the Learning Commons building was exactly as demanded by Sheppard Robson, Sotech constructed a full scale mock-up for the project within the training facility at the factory in Peterlee. This enabled the construction teams to address any areas of concern and for the architects to establish that their design and performance requirements would be fully met.
Sotech has invested heavily in sophisticated design and manufacturing technology and remains the only rainscreen manufacturer to offer a system that is both independently tested to CWCT standards and achieves LPCB Red Book accreditation.
The training facility and showroom are open to specifiers and contractors where all Sotech’s rainscreen systems are on display alongside the widest selection of materials and finishes including pre and post coat aluminium, ACM, copper, zinc, stainless steel, digital print and anodised.
