The University of South Wales (USW) is developing a new state-of-the-art facility at its Treforest campus in Pontypridd as part of its estate transformation. Calon, which is Welsh for ‘heart’ will be the centre of STEM teaching at USW providing a hub for Computing, Engineering and Technology. It will consolidate departments currently spread across the site into a single, future-ready learning environment. The building is scheduled to be opened in September 2026.
BAM is the main contractor overseeing the build, which will offer 11,500 square metres of new space following the demolition of two buildings on the campus.
Central Cladding Systems, the appointed façade sub-contractor, partnered with DuPont and Encon to source and install the Tyvek® Trifecta™ fire-rated breather membrane as part of the external wall build-up.
Dan White, Encon’s Key Accounts Manager for Brick and Cladding Facades, South West, worked closely with Central Cladding Systems and DuPont to ensure the project benefited from the relevant technical support for a smooth installation. This was provided by DuPont’s Regional Manager for Southwest England & South Wales, Laurie Marshall and Technical Manager for UK & Ireland, Bryn Thomas.
Laurie explains: “We offered technical support on site as part of the early conversations and once the start date was confirmed, our in-house Building Knowledge Centre team delivered two toolbox talks focused on the correct installation of Trifecta™.”
“This is how our team of experts can support contractors from the outset - by upskilling site teams, offering ongoing advice, and conducting inspections. It’s essential that fire-rated membranes like Tyvek® Trifecta™ are installed in full compliance with Approved Document B (fire safety) of the building regulations,” Laurie adds.
DuPont’s Tyvek® Trifecta™ was selected for its outstanding fire performance as it significantly limits flaming droplets and smoke emission when exposed to a fire. Engineered for fast and easy installation, the system features a non-combustible A2 tape and is both airtight and watertight, yet vapour-open. This contributes to energy efficiency, climate control, and improved indoor air quality.
Mark Carpenter from Central Cladding Systems commented: “Tyvek® Trifecta™ contributes to the safety, protection and sustainability of this new development. The product’s superior performance, ease of installation and the technical support from DuPont have been invaluable during this phase of the build.”
Encon has worked with Central Cladding Systems for several years regularly supplying their projects across the Southwest region. As a leading distributor of building materials working with trusted brands, and a nationwide stockist of DuPont products, Encon was well placed to support this project at every stage.
Dupont products supplied for this project included Tyvek® Trifecta™, AirGuard® A2 FR AVCL, AirGuard® FR System Tape and other DuPont tapes.
If you would like to benefit from a reliable and knowledgeable distributor to support your next project, contact your local Encon branch or email info@encon.co.uk.
Project Overview
Architect: Stride Treglown
Client: University of South Wales
Main Contractor: BAM
Specialist sub-contractor: Central Cladding Systems Ltd
Distributor: Encon & Nevill Long Cardiff
Products supplied: DuPont™ Tyvek® Trifecta™, AirGuard® A2 FR AVCL, AirGuard® FR System Tape, Tyvek® Butyl Tape, Tyvek® Double-sided Tape, Knauf Insulation Factory Clad 40 and Rocksilk Soffit Linerboard Standard.
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