Paraclete XP SkyVenture LLC, Raeford, N.C.
Posted
01/10/2012
Located near the Fort Bragg U.S. Army Base, this eye-riveting
facility provides a simulated skydiving experience in a wind tunnel
environment created by the aerodynamically directed blast of four,
541-horsepower fans.
The facility encloses a 51-foot-high wind tunnel that is more
than 16 feet in diameter framed in custom-fabricated structural
steel clad with Butler Manufacturing's StyWall, TextureWall and
Thermawall pre-insulated wall panel systems above split-faced block
that mimic courses of brick. Butler's VSR architectural standing
seam metal roof systems complete the enclosure.
The plan subdivides into 10,831 square feet for the flight
simulator portion and 7,945 square feet for the administration
area.
The clientele are drawn from the thrill-seeking general public,
veteran sport jumpers and military personnel with the Green Beret
and 82nd Airborne units stationed at the nearby base. Wind speeds
inside the tunnel reach 165 mph.
What appears to be one building is actually two structures
joined by a pair of walkway bridges. The taller portion houses the
tube-like wind tunnel and mechanical apparatus that support it. The
wind tunnel/flight chamber is an acrylic cylinder that allows
spectators to watch the skydivers.
The complex structural engineering reflects provisions that
accommodate the building's geometry, height and flex resistance to
potential cracking. Butler Manufacturing engineers worked closely
with the architect, Sharpe Architecture, and Construction Systems
Inc., a Butler Builder. Of special concern was the individualized
fastener scheme for the metal cladding and strength to deal with
the loads.
Builder: Construction Systems Inc.,
Fayetteville, N.C.
Architect: Sharpe Architecture, Wilmington,
N.C.
Metal building, roof and wall panels: Butler
Manufacturing, Kansas City, Mo., www.butlermfg.com
