Ulster Hospital Laundry

3rd July 2023

R&F Mechanical successfully completed the full mechanical building services installation for the Ulster Hospital Laundry project as contracted by Ganson.

The scope of works included an extensive steam plant and distribution network, plumbing, heating services, soils & waste, process water, compressed air, ventilation and AC systems all controlled by a comprehensive Building Management System. The project involved the installation of LTHW boilers and three large steam boilers, including all associated hot well feed tanks, chemical dosing, soft water tanks and blowdown systems.

The project encompassed an extensive renovation and expansion of the laundry facilities at one of Belfast’s major hospitals, alongside the construction of a new staff facility complex. The laundry area now spans 1,750sqm, across the ground floor, first floor and mezzanine.

The ground floor accommodates the “dirty side,” where soiled gowns and sheets are received for washing, as well as the “clean side” dedicated to drying, ironing, folding and packaging of laundered linen. A designated “clean room” houses items requiring complete sterilisation, while gowning lobbies facilitate the process of donning and doffing.

The mezzanine, situated in the existing building, serves as a separate plant room, housing essential components such as the main water tank and air handling units.

The first floor, part of the newly constructed area, comprises a staff rest room, showers, toilets, offices, training room and linen repair facilities.

The laundry equipment’s performance capabilities are remarkable in scale. The tunnel washing machine exhibits an impressive capacity of 1,300kg per hour, while certain barrier washers efficiently handle over 300kg of clothing within the same timeframe. Additionally, the iron machine presses and folds 900 bed sheets per hour, while the towel folder folds 650 towels and the blanket folder folds 400 blankets.

Founded in 1976, R&F Mechanical Services Ltd has prioritised sustainability as a core element of its long-standing success. This commitment extends to the work scopes undertaken by the Ballymoney-based firm, as well as the dedicated individuals who execute these projects. With a significant number of employees having served the company for over 25 years, R&F Mechanical Services emphasises longevity and continuity. Over half of the company’s workforce has received in-house training, further demonstrating their investment in cultivating skilled professionals.

Commenting on the Ulster Hospital Laundry project, William Fleming, Contracts Manager for R&F Mechanical said, “One of the standout features of this project was the works that encompassed the installation of three 600kW steam boilers and associated plant. The installation of this and other specialist systems was challenging due to the spatial restrictions within the plant room and constraints on where the distribution pipework could be placed inside the laundry hall given the presence of the hanging bag distribution system and the laundry equipment itself.

“Closely collaborating with our electrical counterpart, we overcame challenges and delivered a high-quality installation within tight space restrictions.”

Concluding, William said, “This project showcases R&F’s expertise in steam distribution systems and complex installations to a very high quality and it has led to further collaborations with Ganson.”

The healthcare sector projects have been a core competency for R&F Mechanical over the past few decades. However, the firm’s expertise in mechanical and building services installation, especially in steam distribution systems and plant rooms, has enabled them to successfully complete projects for clients in various industries, such as large food processing factories and distilleries such as the Bushmills distillery.