WEST GLOCESTER, R.I.–Factory Mutual Insurance Co. has opened a research facility that includes a natural hazards laboratory that can replicate hurricane-force winds.

The $78 million research campus also encompasses a fire testing facility that is more than twice the size of the insurer’s original 1967 fire test center, as well as electrical hazards and hydrology labs. Johnston, R.I.-based Factory Mutual, which does business as FM Global, formally opened the new center on Wednesday.

In addition to creating hurricane-force winds of up to 160 mph, the natural-hazards lab includes a debris cannon that can fire objects such as lumber at speeds of up to 90 mph. The lab also replicates extreme weather conditions to test the long-term performance of building materials.