Revolutionising industrial architecture, Studio LINEDESIGN pioneers sustainable and efficient design principles in their latest project: an industrial park for Uno Minda Group. Spanning 50 acres in Farukhnagar, Haryana, this facility, dedicated to manufacturing electric vehicle components, showcases a seamless blend of innovation and sustainability. Led by Principal Architect Gaurav Varmani, this endeavour sets a new standard in contemporary industrial architecture, addressing the burgeoning demand for eco-friendly manufacturing solutions.
Durable Design
The design and construction of the manufacturing facility for Uno Minda Group were guided by a comprehensive set of goals outlined by the client. These goals covered a range of aspects, including optimising space use and setting up clean room manufacturing environments for high-quality component production. Sustainability was emphasised through green building practices, alongside material selection for durability, efficiency, and sustainability. Efficient management of material movement aimed to boost productivity and safety, while worker safety was prioritised through intelligent design and robust structural integrity. These objectives significantly shaped the overall design and construction process, particularly evident in the decision to opt for a steel pre-engineered building (PEB) system.
One of the notable design features of the Uno Minda Industrial Park is the implementation of twin building facades, reflecting a balance between unity and individuality while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the facility. Furthermore, steel PEBs ensure durability and precision, enabling the buildings to withstand harsh conditions and streamline construction.
Aligned with sustainability objectives, the facility integrates green building practices, such as energy-efficient glass for enhanced natural lighting and reduced energy use. Advanced HVAC systems ensure optimal indoor air quality, bolstering worker comfort and productivity while cutting operational expenses and carbon emissions. In addition, solar panels diminish reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
Engineered for Speed
Facing unexpected obstacles, including a halt in construction due to an NGT ban, the project required swift adaptation and re-planning of schedules. However, with meticulous planning and efficient project management, these challenges were overcome without compromising timelines or quality.
Several methodologies were employed throughout the construction process to ensure the efficient utilisation of steel materials and minimise waste. Early collaboration with structural designers and PEB suppliers optimised steel sections and standardised materials. Leveraging advanced design software, the team meticulously planned the precise dimensions and specifications of each steel component, ensuring optimal utilisation.
Moreover, modular construction techniques were embraced to enhance efficiency. By adopting modular design principles, the facility was constructed in segments, streamlining assembly. This approach not only expedited construction but also enabled sections of the building to be prefabricated off-site. Prefabrication, conducted in controlled environments, minimised waste and errors, contributing to overall resource conservation.
Innovative fabrication technologies further contributed to the project’s success. State-of-the-art techniques, such as computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), were employed to ensure high precision in steel component production. These advanced technologies enabled precise planning and modelling, minimising material wastage and ensuring components met exact specifications. By integrating these methodologies, the project efficiently utilised steel materials while minimising environmental impact and optimising resource utilisation.
The project also incorporated several technological innovations across its design, fabrication, and construction phases. Building Information Modeling (BIM) was crucial, enabling detailed planning and visualisation of the construction process. Prefabrication and off-site construction were instrumental in meeting project deadlines. Advanced fabrication techniques such as laser cutting and automated welding were also employed to produce steel components with unparalleled accuracy. These techniques upheld quality standards, minimised wastage, and aligned with the project’s goals of efficiency and sustainability.
Building Together
The design and construction process of the Industrial Park for Uno Minda Group was highly collaborative. Through integrated design, regular coordination meetings were held among the structural designer, PEB supplier, architects, and the Uno Minda team. These meetings enabled the smooth integration of design and construction phases, allowing for real-time problem-solving and adjustments to meet project specifications.
Proactive strategies were employed to anticipate and address potential issues, ensuring the project remained on schedule and met quality standards. This approach comprised regular site visits, progress meetings, and the utilisation of project management software to track milestones and address emerging challenges promptly.
Stakeholder involvement was essential in ensuring compliance with regulations and meeting customer expectations. Through active stakeholder engagement, the team acquired essential permits and resolved construction-related concerns, fostering a collaborative environment for project success.
Fast Forward Finish
By implementing standardised steel components and employing modular construction techniques, the construction timeline was notably shortened. Despite a 45-60 day halt due to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) constraints, the project was completed within just 14 months. This achievement demonstrates the project’s ability to swiftly assemble prefabricated components on-site, significantly accelerating the construction process.
Embracing standardisation and optimising material usage enabled the project team to capitalise on economies of scale, resulting in substantial savings through stringent cost controls and efficient material utilisation. Consequently, this approach reduced the cost per unit of materials and components, enhancing overall cost-effectiveness. The project’s adept time management and careful cost control measures vividly illustrated its efficient execution, demonstrating its success.
Green Goals
Sustainability guided the project’s design and implementation, minimising its environmental impact. Efforts in earth preservation included conserving natural features, minimising soil disturbance, employing erosion control measures, and planning the facility layout to avoid landscape disruption.
Water conservation strategies involved innovative technologies like rainwater harvesting and recycled water for non-potable applications, addressing the region’s water scarcity. Solar energy was also harnessed through roof-installed solar panels, reducing the facility’s carbon footprint and providing sustainable power for operations. And the utilisation of high Solar Reflective Index (SRI) roof sheeting minimised heat absorption, diminishing the need for air conditioning and conserving energy. Energy-efficient HVAC systems were chosen to lower energy consumption, reduce costs and environmental impact, and improve indoor air quality, enhancing worker comfort, health, and productivity.
Expansive landscaped areas in the industrial park enhanced aesthetics, fostered healthy interaction among employees, provided relaxation and meeting spaces, and contributed to an enjoyable workplace.
Finally, efficient waste management processes were integrated, including segregation and recycling at the source, exploration of waste-to-energy solutions, and regular audits to ensure continuous improvement in waste management practices.
Safe & Streamlined
Efficient man-material movement management was central to the smooth operation of the facility. The design prioritised clear pathways and logistical plans to streamline the flow of personnel and materials.
The layout of the facility was optimised to minimise travel distances and prevent bottlenecks. This involved strategically siting storage, production, and administrative areas to facilitate smooth material and personnel flow.
In addition, automation and material handling systems were efficiently integrated into the design to further enhance efficiency. Technologies such as conveyor belts and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) were implemented to enhance safety and productivity by reducing manual handling reliance.
Safety protocols were also meticulously integrated into the design to prioritise the well-being of all personnel. This encompassed the provision of designated walkways, emergency exits, and state-of-the-art fire suppression systems. Moreover, the structural design was fortified to withstand seismic and wind loads, ensuring a secure working environment for all involved.
Quote
“The Uno Minda industrial park project stands as a testament to what can be achieved through meticulous planning, innovative design, and robust collaboration. From the outset, our goal was to create a facility that not only meets the operational needs of Uno Minda but also aligns with contemporary sustainability standards. Despite facing significant challenges, including regulatory halts, our team’s dedication ensured that we delivered a world-class facility within the stipulated time frame. This project underscores the importance of integrating sustainable practices in industrial architecture and sets a benchmark for future developments in the sector.”
– Gaurav Varmani, Principal Architect, Studio LINEDESIGN
Fact File
Project: Industrial Park for Uno Minda Group
Client: Uno Minda Group
Architect: Studio LINEDESIGN
Structural Consultant & Project Management: AKB Consultants
Fabricator: Smith Structures India Pvt Ltd
Tonnage: 1,200 tonne
Status: Completed
