Sometimes there are projects that are different from others. And this is one of them. INTOS has collaborated with BAM on several occasions in the past. Among other things, to set up an airport in Tanzania. This is because of our many years of experience at airports. But now the request came from a completely different angle.

Construction company BAM is working in Antarctica. The Dutch company is modernizing and expanding a British research center. According to BAM, the Antarctic project presents a particular challenge, as it will be built on the highest, driest, coldest and windiest continent on Earth. In winter (so our summer months) it can get -10 to -30ºC and even colder. Then only scientists live in Antarctica. You can imagine that working in these temperatures is a challenge, especially for us. Various interior parts were requested for the research center. For example, a medical room had to be furnished and there was a need for various laboratory tables and cabinets. The material used is moisture-resistant melanin, composite stone and solid wood. This material must be able to withstand the extreme cold in Antarctica, because it cannot be put into use immediately on site. That is why we were allowed to test at the LUMC before leaving for the Netherlands. The material has been in the freezer for a week to see what this does to the material. Fortunately, the tested material proved to be able to withstand this extreme cold and the boat was able to leave for the South Pole safely and on time.

Normally, INTOS builds its products in its own workshop and is then installed on site by our installers. Just not this project. Due to the difficult working conditions and the great distance, the installation and adjustment of the parts will be done locally by contractors.