At 138 m, the Skyrise development posed a real challenge for a traditional full vented modified stack system. The first challenge was the capacity of the system to carry the waste load at peak times without becoming too large. The second related issue was plug velocity given the minimal transitions in the stack which could potentially compromise the trap integrity and therefore hygiene and air quality.

For John Contestabile, Project Manager with Plumb Group, MEP contractor for the high-profile project, choosing a drainage system that would minimise complications and keep costs in line was a priority. “Traditional vented drainage systems are more complicated to install and can be labour intensive”, he says.

John Contestabile and his team opted for Akatherm HDPE with stack aerators. The Akatherm Akavent Multi-Storey Sewer Drainage System comprises 110 mm and 160 mm high-density HDPE stack aerator fittings that eliminate the relief venting requirements of traditional drainage systems. The Akavent single stack system is part of Akatherm’s HDPE plastic drainage range and is specifically designed for multi-storey building applications.

The end (final) result was an engineered solution (designed) to meet the building’s requirements while enjoying the added benefits provided by Akatherm HDPE, including the acoustic stipulations for noise generated by waste pipes in residential buildings. As it is an extremely durable material with excellent temperature and chemical resistance, HDPE will withstand the rigours associated with use in a tall structure.

“Ordering the prefabricated system was easy and on time. The prefabricated Akavents are a very simple system to use and install. It saves time because there is no vent pipe and less penetrations, both of which are time consuming. It’s one pipe straight up – a great system. It makes our job easier too. It’s easy to get prepacked items onto the site and crane to the desired floor, and the small fabrication sizes makes it easy to gain site access. I would happily recommend prefabricated Akavents on buildings over eight levels.”

– John Contestabile.