Since its inception in 1917, NASA’s Langley Research Center has stood at the forefront of aviation history. As a cornerstone of aerospace innovation, the center’s Office of Education fuels the future through STEM engagement and research partnerships. Within this historic campus, Building 1208 serves a mission-critical role, housing the Jet Propulsion Acoustic Sound Research division. This is the very site where biplanes were wind-tunnel tested in the early 20th century; today, it hosts groundbreaking research into “quiet” supersonic flight—developing wings that can pierce the sound barrier without the disruptive sonic boom.

Precision Upgrades for a Mission-Critical Facility: In 2018, when NASA required a comprehensive overhaul of Building 1208’s environmental control systems, they needed a partner capable of executing complex mechanical upgrades without interrupting high-stakes research. They selected ADVON to lead this multi-million-dollar modernization effort.

Mechanical & Digital Innovation: The technical core of the project involved a total transformation of the building’s thermal management system, including:

• Thermal Exchange: Installation of a high-efficiency steam-to-water heat exchanger supported by 200 GPM (gallons per minute) pumps.
• Air Distribution: Deployment of 4 new air handlers, 27 fan coil units, and 12 variable air volume (VAV) control boxes, delivering over 32,000 CFM of precision-controlled heating and cooling.
• Smart Infrastructure: Upgrading existing building controls to a sophisticated Direct Digital Control (DDC) interface with enhanced graphical monitoring.

Seamless Execution in Occupied Spaces: To ensure NASA’s vital research remained unhindered, ADVON implemented a strategic temporary equipment plan, providing continuous environmental control to a fully occupied wing throughout the construction duration.

The project’s comprehensive scope also revitalized the building’s infrastructure, including:

• Life Safety & Electrical: Complete electrical revamp and an upgraded fire detection and alarm system.
• Structural & Architectural: Structural steel modifications paired with new doors, hardware, drywall, flooring, and modern finishes.

By balancing heavy industrial mechanical work with the delicate needs of an active research laboratory, ADVON ensured that Building 1208 remains a world-class facility for the next century of flight.

Partnering for the Future: Learn more about Langley Research Center’s mission and their commitment to small business partnerships here.