Case Study
Caboolture Courthouse
HVAC Upgrade
Here's a showcase of past work completed by SABE Services Group
Client: QBuild
Sector: Government
Duration: 11 months
QBuild engaged SABE Services Group to deliver a comprehensive upgrade of the mechanical and building control systems at Caboolture Magistrates Court. The project focused on replacing ageing, end-of-life infrastructure to improve the reliability, performance and control of the building’s essential HVAC services.
The scope included two new 280kW Trane air-cooled scroll chillers, seven GJ Walker air handling units, Baker Flow chilled-water pumps, new MSSBs and associated ductwork. The existing chilled-water buffer tank was retained and integrated with the upgraded system.
A new Innotech Building Management System (BMS) was also installed, incorporating four Omni controllers and Niagara N4 graphics. The BMS provides temperature and humidity control, high-level chiller integration and energy-metering interfaces across the facility.
Challenge
Caboolture Magistrates Court remained fully operational throughout the project, requiring the works to be completed without significantly affecting court proceedings. Access to operational areas was restricted, and major equipment changeovers had to be accommodated within limited weekend and after-hours working periods.
Replacing the mechanical plant required complex staging to maintain essential cooling, ventilation and control services. Each stage had to be completed within the available shutdown period while maintaining safe access for courthouse staff, visitors and other contractors.
The existing building also presented significant logistical constraints. The seven air handling units could only be accessed through the external fresh-air louvres on each level, while the chillers were located within an enclosed rooftop plantroom. Installing the replacement equipment required complex cranage, temporary removal of part of the roof and careful consideration of structural loading, weatherproofing and public safety.
Solution
SABE Services Group developed a staged delivery plan around the courthouse’s operating requirements. Major equipment changeovers were completed during weekends and after hours, with temporary power and control arrangements used where required to maintain essential services.
The end-of-life plant was replaced with two 280kW Trane air-cooled scroll chillers, Baker Flow chilled-water pumps and seven GJ Walker air handling units. The works also included new MSSBs, variable speed drives, chemical dosing equipment, an expansion tank, electric duct heaters and associated ductwork, with the existing buffer tank retained and integrated.
Detailed lifting methodologies were developed, with the air handling units craned through the external fresh-air louvres and the chillers lifted into the plantroom through a temporary roof opening. Structural modifications, concrete plinths, waterproofing and new penthouse louvred enclosures supported the installation and provided the required airflow and heat rejection.
The SABE BMS Department designed and installed the new Innotech BMS using four Omni controllers and Niagara N4 graphics, providing temperature and humidity control, chiller integration and energy-metering interfaces.
Results
The project was successfully completed within the agreed program, with the new mechanical and BMS systems commissioned and handed over to QBuild. Airflow and chilled-water balancing confirmed that the upgraded systems were operating in accordance with the design requirements.
The courthouse remained operational throughout the project, with disruption to court proceedings, staff and visitors kept to a minimum. All major changeovers were completed within the planned working periods, allowing the existing equipment to be progressively replaced without extended interruption to essential services.
The completed upgrade achieved the project objectives and provided the facility with reliable mechanical plant, improved environmental control and greater system visibility through the new BMS. QBuild was satisfied with the delivery and performance of the upgraded systems and provided positive feedback following completion.
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