Specialty Gas & Life Safety Systems – UNSW Research Precinct Materials Science building
Client: Multiplex / UNSW
Location: Sydney, NSW
Project Value: $8.5M
Completion: 2015–2016
Sector: University Research Infrastructure
Project Overview
When UNSW invested in world-class research facilities, they needed engineered gas delivery and safety systems that would meet the most demanding compliance and reliability standards. Multiplex turned to Umech to design and deliver these systems across two landmark projects: the Materials Science & Engineering Building and the Hilmer Building Fit-Out.
Both projects required seamless integration into existing campus services, minimal disruption, and absolute confidence in life safety.
Umech’s Role
Across the two buildings, Umech delivered:
26+ specialty gases piped over 6 floors, including ultra-high purity, toxic, and flammable gases.
SIL-rated life safety systems — oxygen depletion detection, exhaust monitoring, toxic/flammable gas sensors, and laser interlocks.
81 gas sensors integrated with building management systems.
House gas distribution for nitrogen, argon, compressed air, and laboratory air.
Engineering, procurement, construction management, QA, and commissioning.
Technical Highlights
10km of Orbitally welded ultra-high purity piping for leak-free performance.
Cleanroom-compatible installation methods to protect research integrity.
Full integration with UNSW’s existing infrastructure.
Stakeholder collaboration with UNSW researchers, Multiplex, and third-party specialists.
The Outcome
Both facilities were handed over on time and to specification. Today, UNSW researchers operate safely with some of the most complex gas systems in Australia — underpinned by Umech’s precision-engineered delivery. For Multiplex, Umech’s coordination and quality-first approach ensured smooth project execution and compliance with zero compromise on safety.
