University of Florida Center for Marine Studies/St. Augustine, Florida

Architect
Rink Design Partnership/Jacksonville, Florida

Owner
Florida Board of Education/Tallahassee, Florida

Size/Cost
16,000 sf/$2.6 million

TLC Services
M/E

The University of Florida’s Center for Marine Studies has greatly enhanced its reputation with the addition of Whitney Lab, a state-of-the-art, two-story marine biotechnology and biomedical research/education building. The laboratory is at the forefront of marine biomedical research facilities in the U.S. TLC provided mechanical, electrical, communications and technology engineering services for this unique project. Due to the nature of the lab and its close proximity to the ocean, the level of salt water required a consultant familiar with high-saline conditions. Our mechanical engineers specified special coatings for mechanical equipment to prevent corrosion. Fresh air distribution was required to dilute contaminants and odors from the building materials, functions, and occupants. A CO2 sensor tied into the building’s direct digital control system was included to monitor contaminant levels. Wet lab areas were 100% exhausted and negatively pressurized.

The air distribution system consists of variable-volume terminals controlling zone temperatures. Perimeter temperature control zones have fan-powered, variable-volume terminals with electric heating coils. Separate zones serve the classrooms, auditorium, conference rooms and lounge areas. An “eyeball” diffuser was used to distribute air to the interactive exhibits area. The cooling system was comprised of two variable- air-volume units with variable frequency drives. The building power distribution system was designed to provide the ability to have generator power to back up critical systems, safeguarding valuable research materials. The laboratory/classroom receptacle power system was designed to be reconfigurable to meet the changing needs of the space.A fiber optic backbone was provided for technology components. Classrooms included “smart” podiums providing instructors the ability to recall pre-configured presentation material or introduce supplemental media to a primary display venue. Control of the room presentation system is managed through the use of a local touch panel with graphical user interface.