Advanced Manufacturing: Industrial Units of the Future

With developments in AI, advanced robotics and smart manufacturing systems, we are seeing an increasing need for advanced manufacturing facilities. As demand for cutting-edge space grows, it is beneficial to understand the complexities involved in their design and development.

But what makes advanced manufacturing requirements different to those of a standard industrial unit?

At RPP, we have a proven track record in delivering world-class advanced manufacturing facilities that meet stringent operational, safety, and sustainability requirements.

Our work includes delivering over nine units, totalling over 200,00 sq ft of state-of-the-art space at The University of Sheffield AMRC, as well as over 268,00 sq ft of at Sunderland’s International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP).

Through this experience we understand the intricacies involved in delivering advanced manufacturing facilities, including:

• Robust power supply systems to support heavy machinery and uninterrupted operations.
• Reinforced flooring and thickened slabs to accommodate the weight and vibration of industrial equipment.
• Acoustic and vibration separation with the incorporation of rigid frames and seismic mass.
• Temperature and humidity regulation for optimal operational conditions.
• Clean rooms and specialist containment rooms for research and precision manufacturing.
• Secure remote monitoring rooms to oversee operations efficiently.
• Blast walls and advanced safety measures for hazardous environments.
• Ventilation and air quality systems to manage emissions, fumes, and airborne particles.
• Water and waste management processes, including cooling and chemical treatment systems.
• Compressed air and specialised gas lines.
• IoT and Industry 4.0 technologies, incorporating extensive sensor networks, data cabling and wireless systems.
• Hazardous material handling systems for safety and compliance.
• Specialised fire suppression systems for hazardous materials.
• High-security systems to protect sensitive research and proprietary technology.

But advanced manufacturing is not limited to AMP’s.  We’re increasingly working with clients to deliver bespoke advanced manufacturing facilities, with recent projects including:

• British Offsite at Horizon 120, Braintree, where we provided Project Manager, Employers Agent, Cost Consultant and Principal Designer services on their 137,000 sq ft purpose built, state of the art facility for their robotic fit out.
• SSS Gears in Tamworth, where we are Project Manager, Employers Agent and Cost Consultant on the current re-development of their existing factory space, incorporating a 600mm think floor slab, cranes and close controlled environments within the extension to manage the fine machine tolerances.

With our experience we can support clients to deliver the most complex operations.  If you’d like to know more, please get in touch.