The $165 million Adelaide Airport Terminal Expansion Project features glasswool solutions from Knauf Insulation. Designed by Hassell Studio and constructed by WATPAC, the terminal project is the biggest infrastructure project at Adelaide Airport since the completion of the existing terminal.
The expansion is designed to accommodate the increasing number of passengers travelling to Adelaide, with international travellers reported to have tripled since the current international terminal was opened in 2005. With a footprint of 18,400sqm, the project extends from the main terminal with significant upgrades to the international arrival and departure terminals, as well as more retail and dining options for travellers.
Knauf Insulation products were specified for the project and featured in both the new and older sections of the building.
Knauf Insulation worked with the plastering contractor, Exclusive Commercial Linings to assist in value engineering the system with preferred products to meet the specification requirements.
“The softer touch of Earthwool insulation in comparison to other glasswool products is a considerable benefit for contractors during installation. It’s user-friendly and price-friendly too,” Damien Cashman of Exclusive Commercial Linings said.
The insulation met the project’s acoustic and fire performance requirements in conjunction with additional plasterboard and plywood systems.
“With the newer sections of the airport built very differently, it was critical to take into account updated building regulations and the specification needs of the project,” commented Michael Goodhew, national specification manager at Knauf Insulation.
“When selecting product recommendations for unique projects such as airports, it’s important to consider not only the thermal performance of the insulation material, but also how the product will contribute to acoustic and fire performance of the systems,” he noted.
Knauf Insulation products contribute to the total Rw acoustic performance of the system and are tested and deemed non-combustible in accordance to AS 1530.1. Their acoustic partition 11kg/m³ x 75mm was recommended for the internal metal frame partitions, which can improve Rw ratings by up to 10 decibels, depending on the stud construction and complexity of the wall configuration and thickness.
Earthwool R2.5HD SoundShield insulation, which also offered exceptional acoustic and energy saving properties, was used in the external metal frame to achieve the required total system R-value of R2.7, in conjunction with internal linings and external façade finishes.
Image: Adelaide Airport - Photo credit Adelaide Airport Ltd (AAL)
