Tag Archives: metal

Planting Future Seeds, NC State Plant Science Building Features Extensive Metal Applications

Hosting one of the top ten best plant science programs in the country, the North Carolina State University Plant Science Building (PSB) is an exciting new 185,000-square-foot cutting edge facility in Raleigh.

Earning recognition with a 2023 Metal Construction Association Design Award in the metal composite category, the application of metal building systems in the research facility extends way beyond the high performing metal cladding. Metal sunshades, metal ceilings, exposed structural steel and metal greenhouse framing also boost performance, energy efficiencies and aesthetics for the LEED Gold building.

For this interdisciplinary science hub where students, researchers, professors and corporate agricultural partners study, collaborate and work to advance the state of the industry, Flad Architects was tasked with designing a building befitting of these cutting edge developments.

“The design strategy [for PSB] was developed around integrated system engineering addressing unique aspects of laboratory innovation to reduce energy use and the specification of sustainable materials for construction and finishes,” relates Chuck Mummert AIA, LEED AP BD+D, principal, Flad Architects, Raleigh.

@jkasephoto http://www.jkase.com Credit: Justin Kase Conder Copyright: © 2022 Justin Kase Conder Usage with express permission only.

A terracotta rainscreen wall system compliments the red brick vernacular of the campus and functions as the primary exterior cladding for the building’s two research wings while extensive high-performance glazing and curtainwall systems maximize daylighting, views and transparency for the building porch and social center connecting the two wings. Tying the design together, anodized aluminum finished composite metal panels highlight the main entry space and brings an innovative energy to the space.

“Composite metal panels frame the building’s ‘lantern-like’ structure that marks the entrance to the building and frame the terracotta and glazing with a dramatic prow-shape,” he explains.  

Aluminum sunshades contribute to the facility’s high-tech appearance and provide important solar heat gain mitigation, enhanced occupant comfort and reduced AC consumption and cost.

For the AGS Sunshades used on the south, east and west glazed areas of the building, the shading angles were analyzed with parametric modeling to optimize performance and create the bright, sunlit environment enjoyed by the students and research staff.

The metal theme extends to the ceiling system in the entry lobby and exterior porch. Combining the beauty of wood with the performance, longevity and low maintenance of metal, the Armstrong METALWORKS planks blend with the millwork used throughout the interiors.

“The wood appearance of the metal ceiling abstractly recalls the use of wood in North Carolina agricultural structures. Installed as the exterior ‘porch’ ceiling and lobby ceiling, the design intent was to create a seamless extension of the ceiling material from inside to outside,” states Mummert.

In addition to their high recycled content and acoustic-enhancing quality, the metal ceilings offer a clean integration of light fixtures and audio accessories, and meet flame resistance criteria. 

In addition to the MCM cladding, aluminum shading fins and metal ceilings, structural steel also plays a key role in the design.

Expressing the structural anatomy and skeletal system of the building, the exposed structural steel and steel framing on the rooftop greenhouses are finished in intumescent paint and a white powder coated finish, accordingly, to maximize sunlight reflection and views. For the structural steel, the intumescent materials also serve as fireproofing and occupy a smaller footprint, as compared to cementitious or low-density fiber spray fireproofing, cold formed metal framing and high-impact drywall furr-outs, which were not ideal for the research environment.

In the greenhouse, the slender structural framing maximizes sunlight, minimizes shadows and lends flexibility to the plant species that can be grown and studied in the facility.  

Steel is also used for the stairs, mezzanine framing and the central glass “lantern” structure, including the angled roof element which contributes to the lightness and simplicity of the design.

In addition to the efficiencies and functionality lent by the assorted metal applications in the facility, metal provides a nice contrast to the traditional, earthy materials of terracotta, brick and board-formed concrete site walls.

40 Years of Building a Stronger Industry

August 1, 2010, was a pivotable day in MCA’s 40-year history. Our association rebranded itself with a new logo (still used today) and achieved an educational milestone: MCA’s Continuing Education presentations were approved for CE credits.

Learn more about MCA’s journey over the past four decades >

Photo courtesy of MCM Alliance Member: East Coast Metal Systems

EVEN AFTER 25, THIS WILL BE THE BEST YEAR YET.

EVEN AFTER 25, THIS WILL BE THE BEST YEAR YET.
Yes, it was 25 years ago that METALCON was born!  Come and celebrate 25 Years of this world-class expo, and experience the biggest, best-est year yet! 
METALCON: Oct. 14-16, 2015 | Tampa Convention Center

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METAL ROOFING CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

METAL ROOFING CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES
Come to METALCON where contractors can compete for cash prizes in challenges such as “The Triangle Screw Gun Challenge,” “D.I. Roof Seamers 90 Degree Challenge,” S-5!’s Let It Snow Challenge,” and “JJs Give It a Boot Challenge.” 

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HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY METALCON!

HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY METALCON!
Oh, how they grow up so quickly! Yes, it was 25 years ago that METALCON was born!  Exhibitors joined forces to help launch what is now the premier event for the metal construction industry. 

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STAY ON COURSE WITH THESE COURSES:

STAY ON COURSE WITH THESE COURSES:
At METALCON, learn from a series of educational courses and programs to gain the cutting-edge knowledge, sophisticated tools and advanced techniques to help ensure your business success, regardless of your niche.

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METALCON OCT. 14-16, 2015 | TAMPA CONVENTION CENTER

METALCON
OCT. 14-16, 2015 | TAMPA CONVENTION CENTER 
Get ready to learn, network, do business and participate in the largest international event
dedicated to metal in construction.
Discover the latest innovative products and services in the metal construction industry on a show floor that will be buzzing with action.
Get charged in the peer-to-peer education sessions, featuring speakers that will provide practical, tangible and precise takeaways to help you solve your business problems.
A powerful 3 days well spent!  Learn More: www.metalconstruction.org/metalcon

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WHAT’S HOT FROM THE SUMMER MEETING: International Zinc Association Advocacy Effort

MCA is part of a Zinc Coalition that was formed by IZA in the aftermath of the Washington Department of Ecology rainwater runoff project that was concluded in 2014. Misuse of the information related to zinc from the runoff report is influencing the Governor’s office and the legislative bodies.

Letter-writing advocacy, with guidance from IZA, is showing positive impacts. Several meetings have been scheduled with IZA and Coalition members to discuss the shortcomings in the runoff report and the outdated clean water regulations. MCA members that have facilities in Washington were asked to get involved in the effort. Similar issues are being seen in California, the Great Lakes region and in Canada.