Cool rooms created for new PFD distribution centre with XFLAM insulation panels

XFLAM insulation panels from Askin Performance Panels were used to create several cool rooms and freezers for PFD Food Services’ new distribution centre in Knoxville, East Melbourne. Working closely with Vaughan Constructions, Askin manufactured and installed 38,500 square metres of XFLAM insulated panels throughout the 25,500-square-metre office, refrigerated warehouse and distribution space.

The massive size of the distribution centre was a major challenge during the execution of the project. The huge quantity of XFLAM panels required to be manufactured and installed to create multiple cool rooms and freezers, all within a heavily compressed program was another challenge for Askin.

Askin overcame all the challenges and complexities faced during construction by ensuring target-based installations, multiple installation crews and proper leadership for project management.

Over 20 weeks, Askin installed on average, 2000 square metres of XFLAM panels each week. Four dedicated installation crews (30-plus installers) were used, enabling multiple areas to be built simultaneously. The entire project was controlled by a full-time Project Manager and Contract Administrator positioned onsite to manage detailing, material deliveries and quality assurance.

Since XFLAM’s superior span lengths required less steel work, the installation was completed quickly and efficiently.

XFLAM panels were used to build the external walls, internal walls and ceilings in accordance with NCC Group 1, IPCA Code of Practice, and FM Approvals.

The new distribution centre for PFD Food Services has been built in compliance with all relevant building codes with Askin responsible for the specification, engineering and installation of the cool rooms and freezers. Built adjacent to their existing site in east Melbourne, the distribution centre has a dedicated seafood processing space, refrigerated food storage and dry food stores. The facility features 8,500m² of freezer space, 5,500m² of cool room space and 25 loading docks.

Askin’s XFLAM insulated panels were used for the walls and ceilings of the freezers and cool rooms. Askin also supplied a range of insulated doors including hinged chiller and freezer doors, sliding chiller and freezer doors, insulated sectional doors and vertical lift insulated panel doors.