Ramtech Building Systems Delivers Innovative Modular Office to Los Alamos National Laboratory
Ramtech Building Systems Delivers Innovative Modular Office to Los Alamos National Laboratory
Ramtech Building Systems, a notable design-build construction firm located in Mansfield, Texas, has recently announced the successful completion of an advanced modular office building at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in New Mexico. Spanning an impressive 26,880 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility is structured over two stories and is built using Ramtech's proprietary permanent modular construction method, highlighting the company's commitment to innovative building techniques.
Collaborative Efforts for Excellence
The design and construction of this project were the result of a collaborative effort between Ramtech, Wilson Company, and Thornton-Tomasetti Engineering. Wilson Company, based in Albuquerque, NM, contributed by managing civil, electrical, and mechanical designs, while Thornton-Tomasetti focused on engineering the concrete foundations and site-built components that support the overall structure. This synergy resulted in a well-coordinated and efficient construction process, ultimately benefiting LANL's operational needs.
Architectural Features and Facilities
The new modular office building is composed of twenty-six modules, measuring 14' x 60' each. These have been meticulously assembled to provide flexible and functional workspace for the laboratory's staff. The interior is designed to be practical and user-friendly, featuring:
- - 14 private offices
- - Expansive open workspaces
- - Breakrooms on each floor
- - Four communication rooms
- - Dedicated mechanical and electrical rooms
- - Men's and women's restrooms
- - A modular elevator and two stairwells
The exterior of the building was tailored to resonate with the industrial aesthetic common to LANL's surroundings. It incorporates horizontal steel siding panels accented by a built-up SBS roofing system, contributing to a contemporary yet durable appearance. Inside, finishes like carpet, porcelain tiles, and textured walls align with modern corporate standards, while life safety systems including fire alarms and automatic sprinklers ensure compliance with LANL’s stringent safety and operational standards.
Addressing Regional Challenges
One of the notable aspects of this project is how Ramtech confronted the regional challenges posed by the remote setting of Los Alamos. Randy Van Zandt, the Vice President of Operations for Ramtech, emphasized that the site’s higher construction costs and limited pool of qualified contractors were effectively mitigated through their modular construction approach. By undertaking a substantial portion of the work off-site, Ramtech was able to streamline timelines and reduce costs significantly while meeting LANL’s specific technical and security requirements.
Engineering and Sustainability Highlights
The building structure was meticulously engineered to withstand the unique wind and seismic loads characteristic of northern New Mexico. It features a stem wall concrete foundation that rests below the frost line, ensuring stability and durability. Additionally, off-site fabricated stair towers made of 12-gauge steel studs have been integrated seamlessly to uphold structural integrity and aesthetic continuity across the building's design.
While the project does not hold LEED certification, it aligns with Department of Energy (DOE) guidelines on sustainability. High-efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, enhanced exterior insulation, and low-consumption plumbing fixtures have been incorporated to minimize environmental impact while promoting operational efficiency.
About Ramtech Building Systems
Established in 1982, Ramtech Building Systems has been at the forefront of providing innovative relocatable modular buildings across varying sectors, including commercial, educational, governmental, and healthcare services in the Southern United States. As a vertically integrated design-build construction firm, they pride themselves on offering a comprehensive range of services—from in-house design to manufacturing and on-site construction—ensuring a one-stop solution for their clients. With an emphasis on value engineering, Ramtech has successfully completed over 5,000 projects, demonstrating both its expertise and long-standing commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. To learn more about Ramtech's offerings, visit their website at RamtechModular.com.
Topics General Business）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.