The striking design features surrounding the WestConnex M8 tunnel perfectly demonstrates our ability to deliver customised solutions to achieve unique designs. Our Facade Blades and Aluminium Click-on Battens were used by architects Hassell to create an iconic feature around the tunnel entrance and the ventilation systems above.
Two major elements of the WestConnex project are the ‘veil’ at the entrance of the tunnel and the ventilation system above. The one-of-a-kind veil emanates a stunning golden sheen to passing motorists achieved through anodised aluminium façade blades.
The ventilation facility located above the tunnel needed to be functional and blend seamlessly with the veil installation below. To achieve this, it was encased with an iteration of our Aluminium Click-on Battens, perfectly integrating with the design of the veil and allowing optimal airflow.
A Custom Product Solution
Anodised aluminium was chosen for the Click-on Battens and Facade Blades to attain the striking metallic finish fundamental to the design. Both are made from 100% Australian aluminium extruded in Dandenong and are an excellent low maintenance option for areas with limited access like the veil.
The ventilation facility creates an eye-catching contrast with 50 x 200mm battens in a Sovereign Gold finish dispersed between 32 x 60mm battens in Jamaican Chocolate. These are fixed to the exterior on a custom rail system which combines our patented bracket and clip connections on one rail to minimise visual impact and ensure fast installation.
The veil was installed upon a customised rail with multi-axis brackets and outreach arms, to achieve the unique curved formation. Come nightfall, lights installed on the outreach arm shine onto the veil, creating a dramatic effect.
Unique Multi-Axis Brackets
To attain Hassell’s vision of a curved veil installation, Sculptform specially designed and engineered multi-axis brackets to support the required twist and bend of the structure. The patented connection of the bracket offers a systemised solution allowing for our usual installation efficiency, enabling Hassell’s unique design intent.
Multi-axis brackets were fixed to the blades at the required angle, which varied for each batten and another was required at the bottom for support, with a small gap left for heat expansion. These brackets allow the structure to be capable of higher wind loads critical for the environment of a veil, over a roadway.
Creating a Visual Identity
In this project, the architects have sought to create a feature that provides character to the entryway, giving the site a cultural identity as well as practical value. Indigenous artists were engaged to create the finish of the building, which makes a significant contribution to the understanding of ‘connection to country’. The curvature of the veil could be understood as a response to the range of motion when entering the tunnel and the light and shadows that are experienced when travelling through this area.
Supply and Install
Sculptform supplied and installed the ventilation facility façade and supplied the veil installation. The track on the ventilation facility was prepared prior to delivery to site with the railing pre-fixed with brackets to allow for swift installation. By engaging us in a supply and install contract for the ventilation facility, the main contractor CPB Dragados Samsung Joint Venture (CDSJV), ensured a fast and accurate installation from our expert installation teams who work closely with our product team to develop installation methods to minimise site time.
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