Compass was contracted to construct the Centre for Industrial Application of Microcellular Plastics on behalf the University of Toronto’s Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. The project was built within Kal Trading Inc., a plastic recycling plant located adjacent to the University’s Mississauga campus.
The existing space within the building was repurposed and converted into a state-of-the-art Microcellular Plastics Processing facility designed to conduct various types of research on polymer processing with industrial scale equipment. The installation included a pilot-scale tandem extrusion line, an industrial-scale tandem extrusion line and an industrial-scale, 1300 ton plastic injection-molding machine manufactured in Germany.
The scope of work required extensive interior and exterior renovations and began with the construction of a demising wall and reinforcing of the roof joists. After extensive interior excavation and trenching, a poured concrete foundation and rebar cage were constructed to support the new equipment which included a 20-ton free-standing crane. The size, scale and heat generating capability of the equipment necessitated the installation of an emergency gas detection alarm system. A lab water supply system was installed to support various locations within the laboratory; a sanitary sewer line, floor drains, a compressed air service and distribution system was installed and general mechanical and electrical system upgrades were completed.
For the exterior portion of work, Compass constructed a compressed gas storage compound, an accessible entrance ramp, fifteen new parking spaces, and accessibility and lighting modifications to the existing walkway.
Throughout the project, careful planning and coordination with subtrades and project stakeholders was required to facilitate smooth delivery of the project. Despite the complex nature, this project was delivered to the satisfaction of the University and the entire consultant team.
