Research and development
Product testing beyond the conventional.
Engineering research, product development and specialist training in a vertical environment built for work at height.
A distinctive research facility
Bring us the problem, the product or the prototype.
The tower's 127-metre height, four lift shafts and specialist access systems give project teams a setting for product development, prototype testing and engineering research that a conventional facility cannot offer.
It is also home to Aliaxis UK's Training and Research Centre: the world's tallest high-rise drainage research facility, supporting full-scale plumbing product development, hydraulic drainage, waste and ventilation research alongside practical industry training.
Every brief is different. We work with you to understand what needs to be observed, tested or demonstrated and identify the right part of the facility.
High-rise drainage testing
Make product performance visible at full scale.
The tower contains the world's tallest high-rise drainage research facility: a 75-metre soil stack with automated control and live measurement for full-scale plumbing, hydraulic drainage, soil, waste and ventilation system development.
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What we can help with
Vertical transport research
Discuss lift technology, vertical systems, safety equipment and technical development in a unique tall-building environment.
Explore vertical transport research →
Tall-building research
Investigate products and systems that need a meaningful full-height environment.
Explore tall-building research →
Drop testing
Test equipment and safety systems in a purpose-built vertical environment.
Discover drop testing →
Sharp edge testing
Evaluate descenders and related safety devices in controlled conditions.
Discover sharp edge testing →
Wind turbine access training
Use our 40-metre ladder and climbing-assist systems for practical training.
Explore training facilities →
Television, film and media
Make use of an iconic location and exceptional views across Northampton.
Explore media location hire →
High-rise drainage and plumbing research
Enquire about full-scale DWV testing, hydraulic drainage research, plumbing product development and technical demonstrations.
Explore drainage testing →
Radio, antenna and wireless projects
Explore potential communications research requiring elevation, long vertical separation or enclosed-shaft conditions.
Explore potential applications →How we work
A practical route from question to evidence.
- 01
Discuss the brief
Tell us what you need to develop, test, train or demonstrate.
- 02
Shape the setup
We identify the relevant shaft, system, access equipment or testing environment.
- 03
Put it to work
Bring the right people and equipment together for a focused, practical programme.
Start a conversation
Have a product or system to put to the test?
Tell us what you need to develop, test, train or demonstrate, and we'll help assess how the tower can support it.