May 9 2007
The architecturally dramatic structure enclosing a new pool complex for Melbourne’s Carey Baptist Grammar School is constructed entirely in hot dip galvanized steel.
The pleasing, practical building which results will be maintenance free long into the future, even in the horrid chlorine laden environment typical of swimming pool enclosures. The successful long-term use of galvanising in swimming pool structures in Europe was an important influence on the architects’ choice of corrosion protection.
The architects also specified of galvanising finish on the basis of aesthetics and a first cost which was lower than high-performance paint systems.
The specification of galvanizing contributed to a faster, more efficient erection schedule. Because galvanizing is an off-site finish with unmatched resistance to impact damage and abrasion during transport and handling, it is ready for use as soon as it reaches the construction site. The rugged galvanized coating eliminates the need for coating touch up after erection, except where on-site welding may have been required.
Top, Galvanized steel structure for Carey’s new pool complex extends to provide a roof canopy over existing sports field seating foreground. View above indicates vast interior space of new structure.
Galvanizing’s long service life will also provide freedom from disruptive maintenance in the future.
The structure itself is a soaring, curved clear span, providing a vast, column-free space with abundant natural light. Structural design has been based on a mixture of steel structures, including rolled steel joists, round and rectangular hollow sections, and elegantly detailed tubular section struts and braces which are also designed to be architectural features.
Source: Galvanizers Association of Australia
For more information on this source please visit Galvanizers Association of Australia