Intelligent Infrastructures

QinetiQ has teamed with BFG International, a market-leading composites manufacturer, to provide the design, supply and installation of a composite panelling system that provides a clean and modern appearance that will dramatically change the appearance of rail station interiors.

We design, supply and install composite panelling systems for rail stations that provide a clean and modern appearance, dramatically improving the appearance of station interiors.

Our composite panelling system can also be designed to incorporate other integrated systems, such as built in lighting and passenger help points.

Subject to graceful degradation, the design life of the interior panelling system is projected to be 40 years. Comparable surfaces, manufactured within the composites industry, have been used in external applications without displaying significant surface finish degradation within a period of 35 years.

QinetiQ is currently installing this panelling system on a London Underground station and is undertaking design work prior to installation on another station.

QinetiQ has a pedigree in providing integrated solutions and has considerable experience in managing and delivering critical projects ranging from the small budget to the multi-million pound, multi-task programmes over several years for defence and civil sectors. Our disciplined approach to project management ensures we can deliver a high quality of work, on time and safely.

Specific benefits of our approach include

• Panelling can fit the specific contours and architectural features of the existing infrastructure, providing continuous clean lines throughout the station
• Composite panels are not prone to rusting or staining as ferrous based panelling are and so reduce maintenance and renewal costs
• Ready access to concealed services via hinged panel fixings
• Optimised panel sizing provides simplicity in the mounting system and allows for reduced installation lead-time
• Composite materials are radio transparent materials and do not interfere with communications systems

The panels can be fitted with QinetiQ’s patented Trim Panel Speaker technology, providing a higher sound quality than conventional speaker systems that is evenly distributed along the length of the platform. This significantly improves the audibility and intelligibility of public announcements.

The speaker system can be incorporated into the frieze panel, making it completely invisible as there is no need for speaker grilles or panel perforations.

This makes it it less prone to vandalism and easier to keep clean, reducing maintenance costs.

The panelling can also be designed to incorporate other integrated systems, such as built in lighting and passenger help points. A sealed and fully drained water management system can collect any water ingress from the tunnel wall and channels it to evaporator trays.