St. Mel’s
Reviving St. Mel’s Cathedral
Kampmann Trench Heaters
Continue to Illuminate the
Restoration Journey
St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford town was severly damaged by a fire on Christmas Day in 2009. The fire was started by an electrical fault, and one of the reasons it was so damaging was that while normally roofs collapse allowing the heat out, in this case the roof was made of copper and simply expanded, creating a furnace beneath it where the temperature climbed to 1,100 degrees Celsius.
Ten year’s ago as part of the restoration project Keane Environmental Ltd., were tasked to work with Kampmann and play a small part in the historical restoration project, bringing the catherdral back to its former glory. 10 years later, we revisited the project, ensuring it stands the test of time.
Making tomorrow’s history today
The 28 hand-carved limestone columns at the centre of the cathedral, all but perished in the original blaze.
The replacement of these was a mammoth task and the 8 metre high pillars were hoisted by crane through a “sliding door” in the temporary roof without damaging the stone or the recently poor concrete floor beneath.
We were then asked to work with Kampmann to supply two specially manufactured double element Kampmann Katherm NK trench heating units that would sit in the concrete floor between the pillars.
Kampmann Kathern NK units use 100% natural convention so are completely silent, this was essential to the future use of the Cathedral.
Bespoke Cast Iron Grilles
Keane Environmental Ltd and Kampmann set about the task of designing hand moulded cast iron grilles, designed with the required free area to allow the trench heaters below to work both efficiently and effectively.
Working closely with us and Kampmann the cast iron grilles were specially manufactured by the architectural iron foundry James Hoyle & Son, in London.
Rising from the ruins
The monumental task of restoring St. Mel’s, included adding Kampmann trench heaters for warmth, comfort and style. However, in the absence of a floor to accommodate essential trench units, the team collaborated seamlessly with T Bourke contractors and Arup Consulting Engineers. The transformation was truly remarkable as they meticulously crafted a concrete floor between the pillars, symbolizing not only the physical reconstruction but also the revival of hope and resilience.
Questions?
At Keane Environmental Ltd., we understand that every job, large or small, has its own challenges. We’d be delighted to work with you to find the correct solution for your building. If you’d like to hear more about this or any of our other projects, contact us today.
Client: St. Mel’s Diocesan Trust
Architect:Fitzgerald Kavanagh + Partners
Consulting Engineers: Arup
Contractors: T. Bourke Ltd
Suppliers: Keane Environmental Ltd.
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