UV-Transparent Cladding Systems
The Wroclaw Africarium (Polish: Afrykarium) is a themed oceanarium devoted solely to exhibiting the fauna of Africa. Notably, it is the only one of its kind in Wroclaw, Poland. As part of the Wroclaw Zoo, the the Afrykarium comprehensively represents selected ecosystems found in Africa. The Afrykarium houses multiple species of fish, hippos, African fur seals, manatees, and many others. Moreover, the zoo itself houses over ten thousand animals, from insects to large mammals like the elephants. This is possible thanks to ETFE, a UV-transparent cladding system that enables flora and fauna to live naturally underneath.
To provide a better experience for visitors, employees and preserve the microclimate inside, we installed a Texlon® ETFE roof. Vector Foiltec worked closely with the general contractor PB Inter-System SA and the Montask installation team to adhere to the deadlines and deliver success.
UV-Transparent and Movable Texlon® ETFE Roof
The Afrykarium is a modern, three-story building, with five expositions around the lobby representing different African biotopes. The building is 160 meters long and 54 meters wide, with a roof spanning over 43 meters. Moreover, this roof is unique, the long spans with no extra support pillars, allowing people to have open views within the oceanarium. Furthermore, the wooden structure is made of glued laminated timber. They are individual and specialized to this project, adding to the natural surroundings aesthetic.
The roof over the Afrykarium-Oceanarium in Wroclaw is covered with a 4,000 m² Texlon® ETFE foil cushion system. In adittion, ETFE is UV-transparent and provides natural light, creating the right conditions for the microclimate inside, allowing over 1000 plants to thrive naturally. Moreover, a portion of the Texlon® ETFE roof is also moveable, allowing for adequate ventilation and airflow.
Information
| Date | 2004 |
|---|---|
| Location | Wroclaw, Poland |
| Sector | Botanic/Zoo |
| Size | 4,000 m² |
| Structure | Wood |
| Type | Roof |
| Architects | ArC2 Fabryka Projektowa sp. z o.o |
Why Texlon® ETFE? Why Vector Foiltec?
The Texlon® ETFE roof we installed at the Afrykarium-Oceanarium enhances the entertainment experience year-round. Furthermore, zoos experience better plant growth under the Texlon® system because of its UV-transparent properties. Some plants like it humid and tropical, whereas some just require warm temperatures. Nevertheless, both requirements can be met thanks to ETFE’s UV transmission capability, allowing healthy plants and animals to thrive.
As the global market leader in ETFE, with tons of experience, we have succeeded in creating exceptional solutions across the globe. Hence, we work hard to always be at least one step ahead so our clients can be ahead of their competition, too. Therefore, no matter how challenging, exotic and virtually impossible your ideas and requests may seem, we will gladly help you make them a reality.
If you need a steadfast partner or want to put us to the test – get in touch.