Frontier Scientific Solutions set out to redefine pharmaceutical cold-chain logistics by developing the largest cGMP compliant, temperature-controlled life sciences facility in North America. Strategically positioned at Wilmington International Airport, the project was designed to create a direct global gateway for both time and temperature sensitive pharmaceuticals, biologics and vaccines. This reduces transit times, increasing security and strengthens supply chain reliability.
With advanced cold storage capable of reaching -80°C, Free Trade Zone (FTZ) designation for streamlined international logistics and direct runway access, the facility supports Frontier’s long-term vision of building a global network of life sciences logistics hubs, including a transatlantic cold-chain connection to Europe.
Value Delivered
North American Fire Protection delivered a high-performance, code-compliant fire protection system engineered specifically for extreme cold environments and high-value pharmaceutical storage.
Key value outcomes included:
Through close collaboration with BE&K Building Group and Frontier Scientific Solutions, NAFPCO ensured the fire protection infrastructure aligned seamlessly with cGMP standards, operational continuity and the facility’s mission-critical cold-chain requirements.
Scope of Services
North American Fire Protection provided a complete custom design-build fire sprinkler and fire pump solutions across the 520,000+ square-foot campus, including:
Every system was engineered for reliability, compliance and performance in one of the most demanding cold-storage environments in the life sciences industry.
Background on Building Owner
Frontier Scientific Solutions brings over three decades of experience serving the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, industrial chemical, government and academic sectors. Originating as Frontier Scientific Inc. in 1988 and now part of eMolecules Inc, the company has built a reputation for accelerating time-to-market through advanced chemical materials management, sample storage, reformatting and global distribution services.
Renowned for exceptional client service and technology-driven logistics platforms, Frontier supports early drug discovery, SAR studies and lead optimization with one of the world’s largest commercially available compound collections.
The Wilmington facility represents a major evolution of Frontier’s mission, transforming life sciences logistics through next-generation cold-chain infrastructure built for speed, precision and global connectivity.
Project Impact
This landmark development:
Dry pendent sprinklers are typically installed in food process plants and box-in-box freezers where temperatures are below 40 degrees F.
Dry pipe sprinkler systems are generally used in cold climates and are highly effective in cold-temperature fire protection.
Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) systems are quick-responding, high-volume sprinkler systems that provide exceptional protection for high-piled storage occupancies.
Fire pumps are an essential part of many water-based fire protection systems. Fire Pumps are used to increase the water pressure (measured in psi) when the original water source is not adequate for the system it’s supplying.
Fire pumps are an essential part of many water-based fire protection systems. Fire Pumps are used to increase the water pressure (measured in psi) when the original water source is not adequate for the system it’s supplying.
Pre-action fire sprinkler systems employ the basic concept of a dry pipe system in that water is not normally contained within the pipes.
Wet pipe systems are the most common fire sprinkler systems. A wet pipe system is one in which water is constantly maintained within the sprinkler piping.
A special hazards fire suppression system is used to put out fires in areas where water damage from fire sprinklers can cause costly or irreparable damage to the assets being protected.
Linear Heat Detection (LHD) is an important component of fire protection systems, as it is designed to detect heat along the length of a sensor cable.
