London’s latest landmark 30, St Mary Axe –aka ‘the Gherkin’ – has been acclaimed as one of Europe’s most innovative and environmentally compatible tall buildings.
Designed by architect Foster and Partners and built by Skanska UK, the 180 m high building is the new headquarters of global reinsurers Swiss Re. Nominated for numerous architectural and design awards, the ground-breaking building also features Flexicon FPAL flexible conduit.
Contractors, Dimension Data of Warrington, specified the world-beating FPAL nylon corrugated conduit to carry the cabling from the floors to desk modules. They specified it in preference to alternatives because, while fully complying with fire regulations, the FPAL was also quicker and easier to install – thereby reducing labour costs on site. Furthermore, the conduit also offered a neater, more aesthetic appearance than other products.
With its high flexibility, long fatigue life and excellent impact strength, the FPAL nylon conduit system is ideal for the type of commercial environment at St Mary Axe.
It also features Flexicon’s patented tamper-proof locking device that prevents the conduit being removed inadvertently. This fitting is very quick and simple to install and, once it has been unlocked with a standard screwdriver, it can easily be removed.
The FPAL has an IP66 rating with the FPA fitting and can be upgraded to conduit upgraded to IP67 and IP68 when used in conjunction with the Flexicon’s new range of FPAX nylon, water tight fittings.
FPAL is one of over 600 new products by Flexicon since the company’s launch in 2001. The company continues to expand the product range from its purpose-built production centre in Coleshill, Birmingham