Tate Galleries

The grease extract systems at the Tate Modern Gallery comprises of extensive networks of ducting that runs above the ceilings and through all floors of the buildings via vertical risers. Within one kitchen, the ductwork is boxed  in on all elevations by the ceiling and general extract system duct that runs below, supply air duct that runs to one side, structural wall that runs the other side, and ceiling slab above. Effectively this section of ductwork was totally inaccessible and could not be cleaned.

Having extensively surveyed both the route of the extract ductwork, and position of the other services and building structure preventing access to the system, DCUK FM provided a solution to the problem which now allows full access to the length of duct in question for cleaning purposes.

DCUK FM also carried out the cleaning at Tate St Ives: A vertical riser at Tate St Ives is run within a masonry riser. The riser is only accessible at the top and bottom. Whilst on site DCUK FM manufactured specialist brushes which allowed the system to be effectively cleaned utilising remote cleaning techniques.

Summary of works:

• This involved firstly attending site and marking out the ceiling where a penetration, with hinged access panel would be required in order to access the general extract duct directly above.

• The access panel was purpose manufactured and installed by a building company. We then cut out and removed a section of the now accessible general extract system ductwork in order to access the underside of the grease extract system ductwork to which a ductwork access panel was installed. The section was then cleaned.

• With future maintenance requirements in mind, the section of general extract duct was re-installed utilising mezz type bolted flanges allowing for removal of the section, via the purpose installed ceiling access panel, and easy access to the grease extract system ductwork during future maintenance visits.