Walraven Yeti® Type A-low Rubberfoot Support System (BUP1000)
for Rooftop Installations
I0472
Roof structures based on Walraven Maxx MX150 profiles
For a leading contractor in the office, commercial and residential construction sector, Walraven developed bespoke rooftop support structures for a range of large mechanical installations. The solution replaced a traditional steel-and-concrete design with a non-invasive system that reduced complexity and improved flexibility during installation.
Reducing thermal bridges on the roof
The original design called for steel support structures mounted on concrete bases to support a variety of rooftop equipment, including:
- 2 power generators
- 5 chillers
- 10 air handling units
- Domestic ventilation fans
- Smoke extraction fans
In addition to supporting the equipment, the structures also needed to provide safe access for servicing and inspection.
However, this approach would have created a large number of thermal bridges through the roof construction. There were also concerns about potential installation difficulties caused by equipment changes and design inconsistencies during the project.
Non-invasive roof structures for rooftop equipment
Walraven engineers proposed an alternative design using Walraven Maxx and Walraven RapidStrut® systems, supported on Walraven BIS Yeti® feet installed directly on the roof insulation.
This non-invasive solution eliminated the need for traditional concrete bases while providing the strength required for the heavy rooftop equipment.
Alongside standard support structures for air handling units and fans, two particularly challenging installations were designed:
- A support structure for a 20-ton power generator positioned approximately 2 metres above the roof and surrounding installations.
- A combined structure supporting two 4-ton chillers and a 1-ton smoke extraction unit, including support structures for the associated ventilation intakes.
All structures incorporated safe service access for maintenance and inspection activities.
Delivering record-breaking support structures
The project pushed the boundaries of system-based support structures and became the first project to incorporate the Walraven Maxx MX150 profile.
The installation also surpassed previous load capacities achieved with Walraven system structures, with the 20-ton generator exceeding the company’s previous record project load of 16.5 tons.
The result is a robust and flexible rooftop support solution that minimises thermal bridges, simplifies installation and provides long-term access to critical building services.
