Transgenic Swine Facility
Additional Info
Award Winner : Art's-Way Scientific, Inc.
Architectural Excellence : Art’s Way Scientific was chosen to design, manufacture and install a 2904 SF transgenic swine facility to support studies of Genetic Modification of Domestic Animals for Agricultural and Biomedical Applications. This standalone facility incorporates biosafety features to protect a closed herd of special swine used in research. Comprised of two 16’ 6” x 88’ modules it includes a double shower through entry, changing rooms, laundry, restroom, storage, preheat, biohazard filter area and 2178 SF of animal housing space. Cast iron slatted hog flooring supported over a sealed pit with scraper system allows sanitary waste management and removal. Structural insulated panels provide a sealed envelope, with sound attenuation properties, finished with steel siding to match existing campus structures. The Interior surfaces are finished with an anti-bacterial, seamless, fiberglass reinforced epoxy coating system. Insulated doors and windows are used to monitor animal activity and the environment.
Cost Energy Effectiveness : By utilizing the modular solution for agricultural animal research programs, the client recognized a 50% time savings compared to traditional construction. Having research ready animals close at hand allows the University to avoid acquiring animals from other sources, and the associated transportation costs, plus allows the local veterinarian to monitor the health status of the animals throughout their entire life. As compared to a site built facility the University gained this space for approximately half the cost of traditional ABSL2 site built facilities. Factory construction and testing of critical environmental systems reduce startup labor and provides the owner with a “research ready” facility. The building design eliminated the need for bedding purchase, handling and disposal. Foundation and infrastructure costs of $25,000 are 60-70% less than that of a site built structure.
Design Firm Name : Pyramid1, Inc.
Engineering Firm Name : MEP Engineers
Green Building Description : Using the modular method of construction, building waste is minimized and controlled in the plant. Our methods of SIP panel construction and fiberglass wall system create a thermally sealed capsule for this highly controlled and critical environment. Lighting controls reduce usage and are set for the animals natural sleep cycles implanting animal comfort. Air quality is preserved by minimizing emissions of Hyd. Sulfide, Ammonia, CO2 and Methane. The impact on the ecosystem is lessened by installation of the modular compared to traditional construction. The ability to relocate the modular building as research programs or business plans change, or the exiting of the profession allow for flexibility of the building asset. Repurposing the building for use with other animal species can be an advantage to a University to change programs in response of new research funding opportunities. Gas and water consumption is controlled by low flow fixtures, pressure regulation, and on demand usage.
Installer Firm Name : Art's Way Scientific, Inc.
Occupied Date : 6/16/2014
Owner Firm Name : Iowa State University
Production Start Date : 1/6/2014
Project Location City : Ames
Project Location State Name : Iowa
Technical Innovation : Following the Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in Research and Teaching, 3rd edition, flexible stainless steel pens were used to provide a social animal environment for individual, paired or group housed animals. Special emphasis was given to the ventilation system, which includes MERV 8 supply filters, cascading positive pressure air flows and differential pressure from room to room, all with the purpose of creating an environment to maximize animal health and welfare. Room heat is supplied by thermostatically control heaters, tied to a multi-stage agricultural control system. Digital temp and RH sensors monitor temperature, humidity and air flow. Water resistant electrical components including PVC conduit, NEMA 3 panels, and wet environment fixtures are used. Animal drinking water is supplied by ¾” PEX through pressure reducing and medication stations to animal water cups. Surface mounted power and water systems allow flexibility if the research requirements change.
Total Square Feet : 2904