Partnering with Hindmarsh Construction, Benmax delivered the HVAC mechanical services for the $203 million purpose-built Research School of Physics and Engineering (RSPhys) at the Australian National University, Canberra. RSPhys is Australia’s leading institution for physics research and its applications, and the ultra-modern research and education facility meets high specification standards for cleanliness, vibration control and electromagnetic radiation control.

A landmark facility in terms of design and complexity, the 15,461 sqm four-storey building was completed in staged works. It combines administrative and teaching spaces, large 250-person auditorium, boardroom and seminar areas, with critical laboratory spaces including stable labs, specialist equipment rooms, cleanrooms (ISO 5, ISO 6 and ISO 7 standard), and microscope rooms.

Seismic restraint and vibration protection technology, as well as complex systems to handle dangerous gases and chemicals, feature throughout the facility to maintain the integrity of the building and the important work of its occupants.

The experience of the Benmax team in completing numerous laboratory projects, in both Australia and New Zealand, was invaluable in the construction and complex commissioning phase of the ANUs latest technical laboratory facility.

Since achieving practical completion, the ANU Research School of Physics and Engineering project has gone on to receive two significant industry accolades and we congratulate our project partner Hindmarsh Construction on their achievements.

Project features

• 15,461 sqm four storey new construction
• Laboratory facilities including 22 x stable labs and specialist equipment rooms
• ISO 5, ISO 6 and ISO 7 standard cleanrooms – the largest an 800 sqm open-plan clean room
• Purpose built gas monitoring and alarm system to monitor 29 different laboratory gases
• Seismic restraint and vibration protection technology throughout
• Large 250-person auditorium, boardroom, seminar, administration and teaching spaces