'The National Railway Museum, York, U.K - Aldek Building'

Description of Project

Replacement PVC/PES Cladding to steel truss portal frame structure, measuring 25m x 44m x 10m, covering a surface area of 2362 sq.m (25,424 sq.ft)

Why was it Manufactured?

The National Railway Museum purchased the Aldek some 10 to 12 years ago with a PVC Cladding, and over the years of hard work in an industrial environment, the PVC had degraded. The original PVC did not possess any of the modern hi-tech lacquers that are available today. \par \par The building\rquote s use had also changed and latterly requiring new doors over the railway lines to enable the trains to be moved in and out of the museum buildings. The Aldek also serves as a hospitality venue for corporate events.

What is unique about the structure and/or what technical difficulties were overcome to make it a reality?

The location of the structure being a railway yard, meant that access would always be difficult, and cranes with 25 metre reach had to be used to lift the roof membrane to at least the mid point of the ridge. The access plant used also had to be able overcome railway tracks and rough terrain. \par \par Although the client provided the original plans of the structure, we undertook a 3D Laser Survey, and discovered that the frames were not symmetrical as per the plans. The surveys were also essential to build the new doors as required.

How did the project achieve the client's needs?

J & J. Carter Ltd acted as Main Contractor for the customer, and completed the project before the due date and within budget. The new membrane has a design life of 15 to 18 years. The PVDF/PVC/PES membrane also has a 10 Year Warranty, this being one of J & J. Carter's standard features.

Project Data:

Revised: May 16, 2005.