Ray Dolby Center: from ISO 3 to ISO 7
Our approach focused on integrated ‘Deliver.’ to solve complex spatial and technical constraints in the ISO3 and ISO5 cleanrooms. By coordinating the mechanical footprint Equans Sci-Tech* achieved the high-density installation of 1612m² of services within the interstitial voids. We prioritised stakeholder collaboration to manage the transition of the university-wide BMS.Ray Dolby Center: from ISO 3 to ISO 7
Our approach focused on integrated ‘Deliver.’ to solve complex spatial and technical constraints in the ISO3 and ISO5 cleanrooms. By coordinating the mechanical footprint Equans Sci-Tech* achieved the high-density installation of 1612m² of services within the interstitial voids. We prioritised stakeholder collaboration to manage the transition of the university-wide BMS.
Key figures
Key figures
Overview
Our client, Bouygues UK, required a 1612m² facility comprising 15 cleanroom/laboratory spaces (ISO 3 to ISO 7). Key requirements included 10 service chases.
This project was delivered to the University of Cambridge, Ray Dolby Centre (Cavendish III laboratory)
Technical mastery
We delivered a precision-engineered cleanroom envelope and MEP package focused on redundancy, safety, and technical integration:
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Advanced ventilation: Installed 3no. AHUs (N configuration) with two-stage heat recovery and FFUs (HEPA/ULPA) to maintain ISO-rated air purity and pressure regime.
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Precision spatial coordination: Managed tight constraints in high-spec ISO3 and ISO5 electron beam lithography zones through 3D modelling of AHUs, ductwork, pipework, electrical containment, FFUs, and ceiling supports.
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Specialised extraction: Implemented a variable air volume (VAV) system with 4no. fans (N+1 configuration) serving dedicated lines for hydrofluoric acid (HF), solvents, and dust.
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Risk mitigation: Installed hydraulic separation and leak detection with automatic isolation valves for flood resilience; toxic gas extract abatement system for hydrofluoric acids and solvents.
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Infrastructure & safety: Routed 19 bottled gases through chases, integrated the BMS into the existing university network.
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Electrical & lighting: Managed the delivery of electrical distribution systems and filtered specialist yellow lighting for wavelength to the organic and inorganic cleanroom.
Benefits
This expert-led delivery provided the client with a high-performance, validated environment with long-term operational assurance:
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Integrated certainty: Single-source accountability for fabric and MEP eliminated interface risks and ensured the 1612m² footprint was optimised for maximum throughput.
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Operational resilience: Automatic isolation valves and N+1 redundancy on supply and extraction systems provide a "fail-safe" environment for high-value research assets.
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Speed to value: Expert management of the complex BMS transition and structural plant requirements prevented project delays, accelerating the time to operational readiness.
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Energy optimisation: Two-stage heat recovery and VAV systems significantly reduce energy consumption, lowering the total cost of ownership (TCO).
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Technical compliance: Managing the validation process from design to operation to ISO 14644-1, ensuring a safe, compliant environment for handling hazardous materials and sensitive equipment.
Explore our full range of capabilities.
At Equans Sci-Tech, we specialise in mission-critical environments where precision is non-negotiable. Whether you are launching a greenfield development or repurposing existing building services, our fully integrated team provides a single point of contact to Define, Design, and Deliver your most complex requirements.
* Formerly known as Bouygues Energies & Services
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From initial feasibility to high-precision delivery, we provide the end-to-end expertise and technical leadership you need to move forward with confidence. Get in touch to discuss how we can bring your next mission-critical project to life.Ready to discuss your project?
From initial feasibility to high-precision delivery, we provide the end-to-end expertise and technical leadership you need to move forward with confidence. Get in touch to discuss how we can bring your next mission-critical project to life.