University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee - Chemistry Building Commissioning

Advancing STEM Education through High-Performance Building Commissioning

HGA embarked on the journey with the State of Wisconsin in August of 2020 for the design and construction of the new Chemistry and Biochemistry building on the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee campus. The design phase consisted of design review and assistance with development of construction documents, with HGA specifying commissioning requirements. The construction phase included installation review, backcheck of construction verification checklists used for quality control, witnessing functional performance test to verify operation of systems in compliance with the design intent and contract requirements, and operational and warranty period review for a continued understanding of building operation after construction was completed. HGA continues to advocate for those the building serves.

The Chemistry Building is a complex facility with systems weaving together in a way that requires them all to operate as intended for the building to serve its purpose. With four central air handlers, two heat recovery units, and four central exhaust fans, working as a single system to support 90% of the spaces with nearly 180 fume hoods, operating as intended requires dedication to detail and perseverance while wading through the minutia to validate system operation. The facility leverages steam and chilled water from the campus central utility plant, not only for heating and cooling, but support of other uses such as humidity control and process chilled water systems.

HGA continues to cherish the opportunity to have been able to participate in the project as it is a significant investment, for students and industry partners as a R1 research institute. We are greatly appreciative of the partners that have made this project a success.