Improving research and education facilities that will open new horizons for neutron science
Penn State's Radiation Science and Engineering Center (RSEC) promotes research and education of radiation and nuclear science and engineering on campus, as well as to universities, governments, and industries worldwide. The Penn State Breazeale Reactor (PSBR) at the RSEC is the nation's longest continuously operating university research reactor. It supports several research and education activities—and now it’s one of the most productive.
When the RSEC needed to expand their PSBR laboratory, they looked to us to design this technically demanding laboratory and research facility. The project consisted of both new construction and renovation of existing spaces for a new neutron beam hall and student and faculty research spaces, incorporating Penn State’s strong sustainability principals.
We designed and managed the equipment fit up, constructability, sustainable design, and all the complex systems that make successful research possible—phasing our work to reduce disruption of ongoing research, including the best means to build around active “hot” areas. A parallel effort focused on evaluation of the RSEC’s building infrastructure that included the building engineering systems. These technical upgrades enable concurrent operations for five neutron beam ports, allowing for 13 operations at once.
The new facility provides an excellent on campus test bed for instrument and experiment development—as well as becoming one of the nation’s premier neutron science destinations.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- The Pennsylvania State University
- Partners
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- Stahl Schafer Engineering
Thomas Walsh, Vice President, Regional Leader, US (Northeast)
Business models change. Underlying objectives and goals shift. Helping the entire team achieve success is best way to continue to grow.
Ryan Wilcox, Principal, Buildings Engineering
Our commitment to leveraging the latest tools and technology in designs can make a meaningful difference for future generations.
Alex Wing, Principal, Education
Balancing analysis and design, I develop an optimal match between academic, research, and support facilities, and the client’s mission.
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