M&E refurbishment for Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre
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Summary
The University of Sheffield’s Innovative Energy Research Centre
The University of Sheffield’s flagship national Translation Energy Research Centre (TERC) stands as one of Europe’s largest and best-equipped research and development facilities for zero-carbon energy, hydrogen, bioenergy, carbon capture, utilization, and combustion.
Our involvement centred around installing an electrolyser and storage facility within the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre, a key research project housed within TERC. Our responsibilities encompassed collaborative design development, managing services, and overseeing building infrastructure on-site.
Key Functions:
- Collaboratively developing the design with the University and equipment suppliers.
- Securing necessary statutory approvals.
- Coordinating with university-appointed specialists and suppliers to create a compliant high-voltage (HV) electrical solution and services infrastructure package.
- Executing electrical, mechanical (including specialist process gases), water and drainage, civil, structural, and building works—all in adherence to relevant legislation (including HV/electrical, water bylaws, DSEAR, and BCGA).
Minimizing Disruptions and Ensuring Safety
To minimize disruption to adjacent buildings during construction, we implemented measures to mitigate noise, dust, vibration, and access challenges. Additionally, we carefully considered existing structures and plant within the facility, including heated pipework operating at 1100°C and hydrogen gas bottles. Protective measures were put in place, including a permit-to-work system employed by the university.
Collaboration and customer satisfaction
Our collaborative efforts resulted in the seamless installation of an electrolyser and storage facility, advancing research in zero-carbon energy and hydrogen technologies. The University expressed great satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the positive impact on the research endeavours at the University and the AMRC.
Project team
Employer’s Agent: Rider Levitt Bucknall
Principal Designer: Keelagher Okey Klein
M&E Designers: RPS Consulting UK & Ireland
Senior Mechanical Engineer: RPS Consulting UK & Ireland
Structural Engineers: Curtins
