Supporting Seismic Compliance for a Tertiary Education Facility

​​The tertiary education facility refurbishment project required seismic restraint and support systems for mechanical services to comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and AS 1170.4. ACURA Group provided the technical expertise and engineered solutions needed to support the project’s seismic and structural requirements.

 

​One of the key considerations was the installation of services beneath a fire-rated ceiling. As the ceiling functions as a fire-rated barrier rather than a load-bearing structure, the mechanical services could not be suspended directly from it. Instead, a threaded rod and strut support system was designed to transfer service loads back to the structural purlins above, providing a compliant load path while maintaining the integrity of the fire-rated ceiling.

Primary vertical threaded rods and trapeze support systems were installed to support the loads of the suspended services. To restrain sideways movement of the support framework, angled threaded rods were incorporated, forming part of the lateral bracing system.
 
Additional seismic protection was provided through the installation of seismic restraint wires. These diagonal wires connect the service supports to approved structural connection points, creating a dedicated lateral load path that helps limit horizontal movement during a seismic event.
 
​​In the event of an earthquake, suspended mechanical services can experience significant lateral forces as they move relative to the building structure. The combination of the diagonal bracing and restraint wires enables these forces to be safely transferred through the support system and back into the structural purlins, helping maintain the stability of the installation.
 
To address vibration generated by the HVAC system, Vibratrol D-Series Spring Hangers were installed between the threaded rod supports and the ductwork support framework. The spring element helps isolate vibration at the source, reducing the transmission of vibration and structure-borne noise into the building.
 
Where the threaded rods penetrate the fire-rated ceiling, FIRESOUND fire-rated sealant was applied to seal the gaps and help maintain the ceiling’s fire rating and integrity.
​Once the installation works were substantially complete, a seismic inspection was undertaken to verify compliance with the approved seismic design and design intent. Working closely with Laycomm, ACURA organised the review of the installed mechanical services, ceiling support systems, seismic bracing, and associated restraints, helping ensure the required seismic verification was completed. Through close collaboration with relevant stakeholders, ACURA supported the project through to final sign-off.
 
At ACURA, we provide more than just products. We deliver the technical expertise, integrated solutions, and hands-on partnership needed to help teams achieve successful project outcomes.

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Solutions ACURA Provided On Site

Zip-Clip Seismic Wire Bracing

Provides lateral restraint for suspended services, helping limit movement during seismic events.

Vibration Control

Minimises the transmission of vibration and structure-borne noise, helping improve system performance and occupant comfort.

Strut & Hanging Supports

Creates a reliable support framework for suspended services, safely transferring loads back to the building structure.

Allthread

Delivers a strong and adjustable connection between services and their support systems.

Fasteners & Fixings

Securely connect support systems to the building structure, helping maintain the integrity of the installation.

​Fire Sealants

Seals service penetrations through fire-rated walls and ceilings to help maintain the fire resistance of the building.

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