The story
ACLAD were first approached to provide the cladding for the North and South Entrance Canopies. The entrance canopies were originally designed as tapering trapezoid features which would provide the motorist with a sequential experience on the approach and departure of the two tunnels. Whilst the design was cutting edge, it was practically unbuildable as the structural design parameters and limitations of the cladding had been exceeded.
ACLAD together with their specialist engineer were able provide the solution by using the latest in 3D Modelling Software. The entire entrance canopy assemblies were designed from the outside in so as to give the truest representation of the architect’s original specification. All measurements for the Entrance canopy panels were taken directly from the computer generated designs and manufactured to exact specification. ACLAD’s factory is highly mechanized with the latest in CNC machinery and so was able to produce all the curved complex panels, supplied and installed with out once having to pull out a tape measure. Total accuracy was achieved and the end result is very pleasing to the senses.
On analysing the challenge for the entrance canopies, ACLAD made the builder aware that we were able to offer a cladding solution on the tunnel and ramp wall linings. Originally fibre cement panels were called for. These are extremely heavy to transport to site (resulting in a significant number of truck deliveries), difficult and labour intensive to position into place and offer an inferior surface finish imposing higher maintenance costs and poor visual appeal making this an expensive choice both short and long-term.
Alpolic FR offers a much lighter, easy to handle product with a smoother finish - a Fluoropolymer paint finish which has a design life of 40 to 50 years. The installation of a light weight lining system ensures the valuable dollar resource is spent on the Hi-tech material and not on the labour required to install it. Alclad's proposal for the linings was more cost effective with a higher benefit for the owners.
It seemed ACLAD had an “Architectural Cladding Solution “for everything”, so the Project team decided to throw one more challenge at us - the NSW / QLD state border feature. Artistically designed, this feature is 22mts high and is positioned exactly on the state border. Once again it was up to ACLAD to provide the building material and construction solution and turn an idea into physical reality. The final product comprises of a series of 4400mm x 1400 x 400 high rectangular blocks, stacked one top of each other. Each “block” is off set to the next one and as it climbs the blocks not only spread out, but also twist to give a stunning visual effect.
The colour was specified in a bright red. Again Alpolic FR is the only choice of material that can offer a perfect smooth alignment with a paint finish (Fluoro-polymer technology) that is the latest Fluoro – carbon technology. Red pigment has always been very difficult to stabilize. This challenge is met with Alpolic FR and so the border feature will be maintenance free for 30 + years.