Case Study: Education Sector - Rooftop Chiller Unit replacement and integration
Client: Urban Design Construction
Site: Manchester University
Location: Alan Turing Building, M13 9SR
Budget: £500,000
Completed: March 2026
Services & Teams
- M&E Project Manager
- Mechanical Engineers
- Pipe Fitters
- Electricians
- Contract Lifting Team
- BMS Engineers
Successful Chiller Replacement within a ‘live’ science building at Manchester University
Background:
The Alan Turing Building at the University of Manchester is a major science hub housing the Department of Mathematics, the Photon Science Institute, and the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics.
Cooling infrastructure is necessary for essential climate control, supporting intensive IT equipment, laboratories, and specialised research environments.
The existing rooftop chiller units had reached the end of their practical life and had become unreliable, experiencing frequent breakdowns.
Phased works for the live site:
While straightforward in principle, this project required careful planning and execution. The chillers serve temperature-critical areas, so maintaining continuous operation was essential throughout.
The phased sequence was to replace the existing No.1 Chiller Unit with the new model (while the existing Chillers served the building). Once the new No.1 was running, we ensured it supplied the essential services while we stripped out and replaced Chillers 2 and 3 with their new models.
The 30RBP 450 R chiller selected for this project is manufactured by Carrier and is part of the AquaSnap range.
Mechanical Scope Overview:
Key highlights:
- Phased works to ensure uninterrupted cooling
- Two weekend crane lifts to minimise disruption
- Installation of a new primary pump and 6,000L buffer vessel
- BMS upgrades to improve efficiency and control
- Extended working hours to meet strict shutdown deadlines
Major project components:
- 3x 30RBP 450 R Aqua-Snap chiller units
- Primary Pump: ARMSTRONG 4302 2020-011.0 PUMP
- Aluminium clad and trace-heated
- Installation of a new primary pump and 6,000L buffer vessel
Planning & Flexible Working:
Two major crane lifts were undertaken over weekends, strategically scheduled to minimise disruption. Each lift required precise timing and coordination, ensuring safe removal and installation of plant equipment while maintaining system resilience.
To meet strict shutdown deadlines, the team committed to extended working hours, ensuring systems were fully operational ahead of weekday occupancy. This proactive approach was key to maintaining building functionality and client satisfaction.
The Results:
The project was delivered by Meel Group’s Senior Contracts Manager and supported by a trusted supply chain and in-house management and engineering teams.
As well as close collaboration with our long-standing client, UDC. The project was delivered successfully and Manchester University’s Alan Turing Building now benefits from a new, reliable and energy efficient rooftop chiller system.
A sucessful project:
Despite technical challenges that required reactive problem-solving, the project was completed to a high standard, on programme, and with minimal disruption to critical operations. the site occupants.
