XFLAM panels from Askin Performance Panels met all the design, function and efficiency goals during the construction of a new gymnasium at the Melbourne-based Melton Christian College.
The college required a double court gymnasium with additional facilities including protected outdoor areas, spectator seating, toilets and change rooms, meeting rooms, staff rooms, store rooms and classrooms.
An environment-friendly and sustainable building was one of the more important objectives of the project. Architect Director, Damian Summers, who was tasked with designing the gymnasium, acknowledged the assistance of Askin Performance Panels (ASKIN) throughout the process.
Getting building approvals and permits processed were primary challenges mainly due to the Southbank-Docklands apartment fire, which had occurred not long before this project. However, despite the stringent process, ASKIN was able to address concerns and demonstrate to the building surveyors that XFLAM easily met the requirements for Australian standards.
XFLAM panels were specified and supplied for the interior and exterior walls, ceiling, and roofing. These panels were selected for attributes such as fire performance, energy efficiency and unlimited colours and finishes.
The thermal performance of XFLAM panels allows the gym to maintain a stable temperature from summer to winter without any mechanical heating. The gym is, therefore, highly energy-efficient and environment-friendly, while saving money on heating and cooling. Being a prefinished panel, XFLAM doesn’t require additional carpentry, plaster, or paint work during construction.
Architect Summers said the XFLAM panel was quite efficient in the construction process, and able to cover large areas of walls and roofing in such a short amount of time. He added that the panel’s aesthetic appeal within the architectural design allowed them to use it with a translucent roofing and façade system.
For the Melton Christian College project, XFLAM Colorbond steel in Shale Grey with a Metric 4 Rib profile was used for the roofing, and XFLAM Colorbond in Shale Grey with Silkline profile for the exterior walls.
Following the successful completion of the project, the college now has an indoor facility that allows generations of school children to use the impressive basketball, netball, volleyball, and badminton courts. Not only has the brief been achieved with the gymnasium facilities, but an energy efficient building was also delivered; the building uses minimal electricity for lighting and has no need for heating or cooling, meeting the key sustainability requirement for the college.
XFLAM panels have been installed in many schools and sporting facilities throughout Australia and New Zealand. In each case, the panel’s thermal values, high fire performance, multitude of style options, and the fast and efficient installation during construction have been major advantages.
