Have you ever heard of a wooden tower? This is the challenge embarked on by Eiffage Construction with the launch of the Hyperion Tower in Bordeaux (France). Borrowing its name from the largest tree in the world (the California redwood tree) the Hyperion wood frame tower is fitted with the new Wavin Tigris M5 press fittings and multilayer pipes.
Across Europe, contractors and pipeline installers are making the switch from water pressure to air pressure testing. Traditionally, pipelines are pressure tested by using water. But, as we strive to make our building spaces more sustainable and resilient, we seek more forward-thinking alternatives like air pressure testing which can be a more secure pressure testing method, reducing the risk of both Legionella and water damage.
First of its kind – made in France
As part of an urban renewal program in the heart of the city, near the Saint-Jean train station in Bordeaux, the players in this project took on the challenge of building the tallest wooden residential tower in France, more than 50 meters in height. In order to guarantee the wind and seismic stability of the structure, the foundation of the tower and the first three levels are constructed of concrete. This "backbone" is comprised of wooden framed walls from the forests of Corrèze. Environmentally, wood is a bio-based and recyclable/renewable material which has the advantage of storing CO2 even after cutting, and of warding off the greenhouse effect. This year-long project is part of a low carbon footprint construction concept.
The Challenge: Water damage is a risk factor for wooden structures
And because of this, the structures are subject to the ravages of humidity. Furthermore, there is the health risk of Legionella. If pipes are not dried properly after water-pressure testing, Legionella bacteria can grow.
When you pressure test with air, you can skip the time-consuming drying phase, but also be 100% assured that no Legionella bacteria have been introduced to the pipes during construction.Don Elworthy , Senior Contracts Manager, Panks Engineers Ltd. (UK)
The Solution: Acoustic leak detection
The acoustic leak detection system is integral to the Wavin Tigris M5 and was decisive in the choice of this solution in order to limit any risk of water damage due to leakages. Wavin’s “Acoustic Leak Alert” (rather than the standard water leak alert) allows installers to detect any leaks caused by loose fittings on an entire system. With Wavin’s Tigris M5, any uncrimped fitting will make a hissing sound of up to 80dB – making it easier to locate the source of the leak. The Tigris M5 is the first – and only – fitting to be equipped with such a leak detection system.
The first part of the order, 5,000 meters of multi-layer pipes and the 840 Wavin Tigris M5 16-diameter fittings, supply the hot water/sanitary cold-water networks of the future housing units in the Hyperion Tower. Without welding or risk of corrosion, the sealing of these systems is safely ensured, guaranteeing reliable and durable connections, thanks to the robust design of the Wavin fittings. Additionally, the Multi Jaw functionality of the Tigris M5 fitting allows for greater flexibility in crimping tools (U, Up, H, TH and B compatible). It is in this context that Wavin, in collaboration with the various players, implemented the Wavin Tigris M5 solution within this innovative project.
The value of air pressure testing
Water damage is the second most frequent cause of loss during building projects. Pressure testing with air means you can be 100% sure that leaks won't destroy electrical installations, new flooring or fresh drywall. Air pressure testing is done incrementally. Each air pressure test takes minimum of 130 minutes, compared to only 20 minutes for each water test. However, when you add the preparation time of a water test (the time it takes to get all air out of the system) and the fact that the whole installation needs to be flushed once per week, water testing is ultimately more unwieldy and time-consuming.
Air pressure testing has eliminated unnecessary delays during the installation phase. Testing pipelines with air offers distinct advantages: it eliminates the risk of bacterial growth, such as Legionella, that can result from water stagnation between testing and commissioning. The process avoids workspace contamination and removes the need for water-based sprays. Operable at just 0.15 bar, air testing is fast, clean, and secure—making it highly suitable for verifying prefabricated installations. The procedure also supports year-round application, including winter, without risk of pipe freezing. Additionally, there is no longer dependency on early-site water supply—an air compressor is all that is required.Ruurd van Leeuwen , Global Product Manager (Hot & Cold Water Solutions), Wavin (an Orbia business)
Building healthy, sustainable environments
The Hyperion Tower is designed to save 14.7 tons of carbon emissions per apartment, an epic step towards achieving a clean energy environment. For Wavin, it's been a privilege to be a contributing force to such an impactful, sustainable building project. The Hyperion Tower was completed in May 2021 with more information to be found via this website.Project: Hyperion Tower with housing units, shops, offices, parking
Location: Saint Jean-Belcier area, Bordeaux, France
Built area: 17.000 m²
Wooden tower: 7.000 m² / 98 housing units
Lower housing building: 5.760 m² / 78 housing units
Office building: 3.900 m²
Make sure to read all the blogs about air pressure testing:
1. Why are more companies switching to air pressure testing?
2. The benefits of air pressure testing on large construction projects
