Firetainer® Fire Water Storage Tanks for a Prestigious Commercial Building in Birmingham
Introduction
Franklin Hodge successfully designed, built, and commissioned two rectangular fire water storage tanks for a prestigious commercial building in Birmingham. The project overcame unique spatial and logistical challenges, meeting both the client’s specifications and LPCB approval requirements. This case study highlights the challenges faced, the innovative solutions provided, and the successful results achieved.
Client Background
The client required fire water storage tanks to supply the building’s sprinkler system. The tanks had to be installed in a small basement plant room while adhering to strict fire safety standards. Key client needs included:
- Designing tanks to fit within a confined space with existing concrete roof support columns.
- Ensuring access for maintenance and inspection.
- Positioning key components like pump suction outlets and inlet platforms near accessible entry points.
These requirements called for innovative engineering to overcome space and access constraints.
Franklin Hodge Solution
1. Custom tank design:
Following a detailed site survey, Franklin Hodge proposed two ‘L’-shaped tanks to optimise space and accommodate the structural obstacles within the plant room.
2. Encapsulation of roof support columns:
Using Franklin Hodge’s Firetainer® system, the columns were encapsulated with butyl rubber liner material, allowing the tanks to be built seamlessly around the obstacles while maintaining full structural integrity.
3. Collaboration and planning
Regular collaboration with the managing contractor addressed logistics and ensured smooth on-site assembly. A comprehensive method statement and risk assessment were developed to guide the installation process.
4. Material Delivery and on-site assembly
Materials were transported down multiple flights of stairs due to restricted access. The tanks were constructed around the support columns with strategically placed platforms for inspection and maintenance.
Results
- Efficient space utilisation: The innovative tank design fit perfectly within the restricted basement space while adhering to all client requirements.
- On-time delivery: The project was completed within the original schedule, ensuring minimal disruption to the overall build timeline.
- Compliance: Both tanks met all LPCB fire safety requirements, achieving full approval and operational functionality.
Challenges Overcome
- Confined space constraints: The ‘L’-shaped design and column encapsulation maximised the available area while maintaining access for maintenance.
- Restricted access: A specialised logistics strategy ensured materials were delivered and assembled efficiently in the plant room.
- Structural integration: By using butyl rubber liners, Franklin Hodge successfully integrated the tanks with existing structural elements, showcasing their engineering flexibility.
Conclusion
This project demonstrates Franklin Hodge’s ability to deliver innovative fire water storage solutions, even in challenging environments. The use of custom designs, advanced materials, and collaborative planning highlights Franklin Hodge’s expertise in meeting unique client needs.
For over 50 years, Franklin Hodge has been a trusted provider of fire water storage systems, offering flexible and reliable solutions tailored to any requirement.
