UNSW

CLIENT

University of New South Wales (UNSW)

SERVICE

Silane Gas Cabinet Drainage

LOCATION

H6 Tyree Building, Kensington NSW

COMPLETION

2024

PROJECT INFORMATION

JetBlack Plumbers was engaged by UNSW to deliver critical hydraulic upgrades to support the safe operation of two silane gas cabinets within the Tyree Building (Level 4). The project involved the installation of new drainage infrastructure and integration of safety components to manage contaminated water resulting from potential fire suppression or chemical events.

OBJECTIVES & PRIORITIES

Fit for Purpose
(compliant)

Cost
Savings

Quality
Workmanship

Tight
Deadlines

SCOPE OF WORKS

Installation of stainless-steel snorkels on two existing silane gas cabinets, each fitted with swing check valves.
Installation of vinyl clamp stainless steel assemblies and compressible bunds within the Level 4 SPREE gas store.
Modification and reconnection of existing services as required.
Installation of trade waste drainage lines from Level 4 through to a ground floor loading dock connection.

Integration of a trade waste holding tank with level sensors, external strobe, BMCS interface, and full coordination of electrical supplies for pump-out and control functions.
Core drilling, pipe lagging, installation of camlock pump-out points, and waterproofing works.
Supply of compliance documentation, including as-constructed drawings and a hydraulic certificate.
Provision of 12 months defects liability period post-handover.

CHALLENGES

The project required work within a high-risk environment dealing with hazardous gases. Key challenges included:

Navigating existing live services and penetrations within post-tensioned concrete slabs.
Ensuring all works complied with stringent university safety, environmental, and engineering standards.
Maintaining clear coordination between multiple trades and stakeholders, including UNSW project managers, fire services consultants, and electrical contractors.

OUR SOLUTION

Jetblack Plumbers implemented a detailed construction and safety methodology tailored to the unique conditions of the site. A WHS Management Plan and Environmental Plan were developed and submitted prior to works. Core drilling and ceiling removals were executed with precision to allow for HDPE pipe installations and sensor systems.

To mitigate contamination risk, all new drainage lines were connected to a dedicated trade waste system and fitted with fire-rated seals in compliance with AS 3500.2. Integration with UNSW’s Building Management Control System (BMCS) allowed for real-time monitoring of liquid levels and pump functionality. All work zones were reinstated to a high standard, including ceiling restoration and pipe identification labelling.

THE RESULTS

The project was delivered on time, with commissioning completed in December 2024. All systems are now fully operational and compliant with hazardous material handling regulations.

Key outcomes:

Safe, compliant drainage system for silane gas cabinet operations.
Smart monitoring system with strobe alerts, SMS capability, and automated pump test cycles.
Fully certified installation with long-term warranty and defects support.
No disruption to surrounding laboratory operations throughout the project.

PROJECT

Silane Gas Cabinet Drainage Upgrade