Located in Akron, NY, the Village of Akron Wastewater Treatment Facility has recently incorporated a significant structural addition: a state-of-the-art fiberglass shelter. Designed to house various wastewater treatment equipment, this building—dubbed the “Headworks Building”—is not only an engineering marvel but also the largest product ever designed and fabricated by VPC.
Dimensions and Equipment
The Headworks Building is expansive, measuring 17 feet in width, 48 feet in length, and 14 feet in height. This considerable size accommodates a host of specialized equipment necessary for the treatment process, including:
A 9-inch Parshall Flume for flow measurement • A Grit Pump for extracting and transporting grit from the wastewater • A Bar Screen for filtering out larger debris • HVAC equipment for maintaining optimal indoor conditions.
Unique Design Features
The shelter incorporates several custom features tailored to the specific requirements of the site and the equipment it houses:
Modular Construction
Produced in six 17′ x 12′ sections, these modules were fastened and bonded on-site using mating flanges. This technique resulted in a seamless structure that provides robust housing for the internal machinery.
Concrete Curb Foundation
To ensure stability and level alignment, the shelter was installed atop a concrete curb. This positioning necessitated the design and incorporation of recessed entry and exit doors, which sit below the curb level. This design feature allows for flat, hassle-free entry and exit.
Natural Light and Illumination
It features eight 22″ x 36″ windows for natural light, complemented by additional lighting to ensure a well-lit work environment.
Coordinated Integration
VPC coordinated with multiple disciplines to integrate piping and ductwork seamlessly. This involved installing exhaust louvers that are meticulously positioned to allow ducts and pipes to exit the structure efficiently.
Logistics and Transportation
Transporting these large sections was a complex endeavor. Each module required a dedicated truck outfitted with over-dimension permits. Front and back escorts accompanied each truck to ensure safe transportation from the VPC facility to the Akron site.
VPC SOLUTION
The Headworks Building at the Village of Akron Wastewater Treatment Facility represents a pinnacle in fiberglass building manufacturing, both in terms of its sheer size and the complexity of its design features. From its modular construction and specialized foundation to its careful considerations for natural light and multi-disciplinary coordination, this shelter is a testament to the customizability and versatility of modern fiberglass structures by Virtual Polymer Compounds.
CATEGORY: customized fiberglass buildings
