RMAX blocks music to the ears of concert hall developers

RMax State Manager Ziggy Schweiker said the German Isorast Thermacell building system chosen by the hall's builder Bells Construction was more cost effective than conventional construction methods.

The building system has been extensively tested by CSIRO and found to have superior sound dampening qualities to accommodate acoustic requirements.

That has meant that the system has been easily able to meet the strict acoustic requirements of the Concert Hall, including octave band requirements.

According to Mr Schweiker, the insulation quality of the bricks meant that they would also provide significant savings in terms of heating and air conditioning costs.

Mr Schweiker said the benefits of the Thermacell system made it just as applicable to the home building market. He also said the bricks were very easy to use.

In simple terms the interlocking bricks are stacked to roof height, filled with concrete before a 5mm render is added to the outside. And there is no concerns about handling the bricks given that they weigh just 800g.

Mr Schweiker said there was growing interest in the bricks from Tasmanian home builders and he also hoped to be able to establish significant export opportunities.

MERLIN CONSTRUCTIONS / DEVELOPMENTS PTY LTD

24 April 2003

Dear Geoff,

I wish to confirm our satisfaction with Thermacell having used this system and a competitive product.

Thermacell proved far superior in terms of the quality of the material, design and versatility.

I should also comment on the continuing support and advice given by you and the manufacturer, RMAX.

Compared to the alternative used previously, the Thermacell block allows significant savings due to ease of assembly, less need for bracing, lower wastage and a much more efficient design with regard to pouring the concrete in-fill. The absence of "blow-outs" with Thermacell during the concrete pour is a welcome change. The design also provides for greater strength in the final wall construction.

We have completed the wall construction of a 530 square metre house we are currently building and estimate that the use of Thermacell has saved us in the order of 3 to 4 weeks in construction time compared to the competitive system.

Yours faithfully

P. Phillips
Director