NFU Energy, one of the UK’s leading energy consultancies, has launched a brand-new energy price comparison website. This new tool aims to empower businesses across all sectors by enabling them to easily compare energy prices and switch to suppliers offering more favourable deals tailored to their needs.
With energy costs being a significant expense for a variety of enterprises, finding the most competitive energy deals is crucial. This user-friendly online comparison tool simplifies the process of comparing and switching energy suppliers. Businesses can input their energy consumption details and preferences, such as contract length and trading type, and in just a few clicks, they can view a comprehensive list of energy suppliers’ tailored offers, making it easier than ever to evaluate and select the best option for their business.
NFU Energy has established strong partnerships with a wide network of energy suppliers, ensuring a diverse range of options. These partnerships
enable businesses to benefit from exclusive rates and favourable contract terms that may not be available through other channels. By using the tool, businesses can potentially unlock significant savings on their energy bills, as well as saving valuable time and effort.
NFU Energy is committed to supporting UK businesses in their pursuit of sustainability and profitability. The launch of this online energy price comparison tool is part of its ongoing efforts to provide businesses with the tools and resources needed to navigate the evolving energy landscape efficiently.
For more information, call the NFU Energy team on 024 7669 6512 or visit: www.nfuenergy.co.uk
SWIFIX is a multi-award-winning company that offers state-of-the-art solutions for securing external furniture through External Wall Insulations (EWI) and is a favoured product of choice for the building sector.
Established in 2016, the company offers a leading, alternative, innovative design range that bypasses more traditional timber pattresses to secure the fixing of satellite dishes through to utility boxes upon reinstatement.
This game-changing range helps secure external furniture through EWI, such as satellite dishes, rainwater goods, light alarms, canopies, cables through to signage and has enabled SWIFIX to become a market-leading supplier. A recent partnership with SKY telecommunications has led to a new product securing cables and small pipework.
The Exeter-based company works with a wide range of sectors, and provides robust solutions to secure external wall furniture through insulation and cladding, across a range of applications from new build, retrofit and
off-site modular trade.
SWIFIX is the brainchild of Director Paul Brown, who has a wealth of experience in senior management and understands the industry, having started out as a plasterer completing EWI applications.
We spoke to Paul to find out more about this growing company and why it has an edge over competitors, “The product range from SWIFIX is favoured by building professionals. One of the reasons is the watertight solution prevents water ingress, which as we know is highly damaging to structures. We are confident that our solutions not only offer value for money but are exceptionally adaptable across many applications, with capacity to hold larger weights than previously possible.
“Furthermore, the range is eco-friendly, made from
partially recycled plastic materials and with all parts now fully recyclable and sustainable packaging, are proactive with our sustainability targets. We want to see an end to landfill usage and are helping contribute further to the circular economy.”
SWIFIX has been recognised as industry-leading by the wider building & construction industry and energy sector and has won a whole host of awards: The E2 Media Award of Excellence, Award for Innovation from Solutions Publishing and Best Practice Construction Award from Building & Construction Review. The company also got named as a finalist in The National Building & Construction Awards, Offsite Awards, Energy Efficiency Awards and INCA Awards.
The SWIFIX range are all PAS2035-compliant for customer quality assurance. The range have been designed with easy installation in mind and offer huge cost savings, making them products of choice for many across the building and construction sector and with the eco-friendly features, these products are helping blaze a trail to a more circular economy, rather than a linear one.
For more information on this award-winning range, please see below:
T 01884 560477
info@swifix.co.uk
www.swifix.co.uk
Twoinnovative new products have been released by leading UK wild flower specialists, Wildflower Turf Ltd; Meadowscape Pro and Wildflower Turf® Finisher. After several years of research and product testing the Hampshire-based business has announced the launch of Meadowscape Pro™, an enhanced growing medium used by landscape professionals for effective wild flower establishment which has also been used and approved by The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Meadowscape Pro allows for the creation of dynamic and biodiverse wild flower spaces in a range of settings with minimal ground preparation, saving time and money. Extensively tested and enriched with Hydropor™, this specially developed formula supports good water percolation and retention, stabilising
the growing medium for much better seed germination compared to more conventional seeding methods.
Wildflower Turf® Finisher is designed to fill joins, edges and small gaps for Wildflower Turf® projects and will eradicate the need for wastage of the Wildflower Turf® product when laying complex areas. Perfect for use around trees, plants and around areas of defined shapes where cutting the Wildflower Turf® becomes more complicated, Wildflower Turf® Finisher will be supplied in convenient 20kg bags.
T 01256 771222
wildflower@wildflowerturf.co.uk
www.wildflowerturf.co.uk
AQMesh is being used for industrial air pollution monitoring around the world because it brings together a range of features and services that have been tailored to the needs of construction, mining, petrochemical and other industrial applications.
The key benefit is just how much can be done with one small, compact, neat and easily-installed unit. Each ‘pod’ is fully customisable, allowing full flexibility of the measurements offered, from a single gas sensor to a ‘fully loaded’ air quality station, measuring six gases, four particulate matter fractions, noise and wind speed and direction. Built to order and fully tested in two weeks, pods can be specified to suit each project at build – or afterwards; requirements can change and it is helpful to be able to reconfigure existing equipment.
As well as long service life expected (all AQMesh pods are sold with a five year manufacturer’s warranty
and many have been in use for over ten years) the ability to reconfigure rather than repurchase makes AQMesh an environmentally friendly solution. Pods are tough, designed –and proven – to withstand extremes of temperature, high winds, torrential rain, snow, and are designed for the additional challenges from industrial sites with potentially complex emissions.
Wherever pods are installed, data from all channels are transmitted using any available phone network, repeating connections and storing data where the phone signal is very weak. This provides a complete solution, with readings securely accessed online or transferred to the client database. All data from all pods are completely owned by the user – not the manufacturer or service provider – and nobody else has access to the site’s pollution data.
From installation to output, the AQMesh system reduces time and risk on the ground. Pods are small
and can be held in one hand up a ladder, with only a single universal power cable, which can be connected to a smart solar pack or a direct power supply. Battery operation is another option, and no loggers or wiring are required for data transmission.
Mindful of the costs of local field support, pods require only a twoyear maintenance visit for sensor replacement. All other support can be carried out remotely, with proactive diagnostics for faults or data quality flagging. Sensors failing in the field are immediately detected remotely and a free replacement is sent to site if the sensor is in warranty. After over 10 years of experience monitoring in harsh climates and a range of applications, the AQMesh team is able to offer automated data QA, as well as unlimited customer service and support no matter where you are, how many pods you have or how long you’ve had them.
The team is keen to engage with existing and new customers to find solutions, honestly highlight relevant
limitations, and be as much part of the client team as the client would like. From a single pod rental to proactive management of a large network, AQMesh and the team can direct this best-in-class technology to provide real value. Measurement of multiple pollutants, at multiple locations, can provide much more powerful insight about what is going on in the air than modelling alone, and has the potential to inform site management.
So where to start? AQMesh offers a first step to address curiosity about local air pollution on or around any site, with full confidentiality. Fixed price packages include equipment use, connection and data access and interpretation of readings.
For more information about how the AQMesh team can help get you started on your monitoring journey, chat to us today.
At Cirrus Research, we’re a pioneering name in the field of noise measurement and environmental monitoring. We continuously push the boundaries of innovation with our cutting-edge solutions, which is why our cloud-based monitoring solutions stand out as remarkable additions to our fleet of noise and environmental monitoring instruments.
The Quantum Indoor is built to assess noise levels within indoor workspaces, making it an ideal tool for monitoring in factories, public buildings and residential areas. Equipped with advanced sound level meter technology, it accurately captures noise data, helping users identify potential noise-related issues and take appropriate mitigation measures.
On the other hand, the Quantum Outdoor is designed to tackle not only environmental noise monitoring, but also other environmental impacts. Ideal for use on railways, at airports, on construction sites, at mines and other external activities, this solution can simultaneously monitor:
With its robust features, Quantum Outdoor can withstand varying environmental conditions while delivering reliable and precise data.
Complementing both the Quantum Indoor and Quantum Outdoor is the MyCirrus Cloud platform, which exemplifies our commitment to enhancing user experience and data management.
This platform is a comprehensive Cloudbased system that facilitates seamless data storage, analysis, and sharing. It allows users to remotely access their noise measurements, generate insightful
reports, and collaborate easily with colleagues or stakeholders. This capability is especially valuable in a world where remote and hybrid working are becoming increasingly popular amongst employers and employees, enabling real-time decision-making and timely interventions based on accurate noise data.
In a world where noise pollution is increasingly recognised as a significant environmental concern, these solutions provide a holistic approach to noise monitoring. Whether it’s ensuring occupational health and safety within enclosed spaces, evaluating the impact of transportation networks on urban areas, or simply improving overall quality of life, the Quantum Indoor, Quantum Outdoor, and MyCirrus Cloud are invaluable tools that underscore the commitment of the team here at Cirrus Research to advancing noise management technology.
Contact
T +44 (0)1723 891655 sales@cirrusresearch.com www.cirrusresearch.com
Anew build bespoke property from Dovecote Homes integrates cutting-edge green technology featuring the Panasonic 12kW Aquarea Monobloc airto-water heat pump, alongside solar panels and a battery storage unit. The stunning property has achieved the most-efficient EPC rating possible (A-rated) thanks to its thoughtful specification. The heating and cooling system was supplied and designed by authorised Panasonic distributor Oceanair and installed by Danny Wakeman of Wakeman Heating & Renewables.
Innovative heating solution
The centrepiece of this remarkable home is the Panasonic Aquarea 12kW T-Cap monobloc unit, expertly designed to provide optimal performance. Combining the eco-friendly heat pump with underfloor heating on the ground level and radiators on the upper floor results in unparalleled comfort throughout the property. The intelligent integration of solar panels and a battery storage unit
further enhances the home's energy efficiency, minimising its environmental impact.
Exceptional energy efficiency from Aquarea Dovecote Homes is a respected independent developer specialising in creating bespoke, luxury homes with a sustainable ethos. The company follows a unique approach, identifying prime plots of land and creating initial designs and foundations. Subsequently, they collaborate with their buyers during the planning phase to tailor each home to the buyer's preferences. Through the combination of green technologies, this home has achieved an extraordinary feat – earning an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A, the highest possible rating for energy efficiency. It stands as a testament to the power of eco-conscious choices and advanced heating solutions to create a greener future.
www.aircon.panasonic.eu
The Ancient Chinese philosophers believed that the Earth and life force (qi) contained five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Wood and metal are considered highly incompatible elements, with metal often destroying beautiful carved, wooden furniture.
This Chinese philosophy extends to the building trade, where we are now seeing the effects of decades of metal nails in timber walls.
LIGNOLOC® is an exclusive, pioneering collated nail system from Beck made of renewable central European beech wood. It is the perfect sustainable alternative to metal nails across the timber construction industry. It is the world’s first ‘shootable wooden nail’ – designed to be shot directly into wood without pre-drilling, using the FASCO® LIGNOLOC® pneumatic nailer. LIGNOLOC® contains 66% less CO2 emissions compared to more traditional systems and is at the forefront of the circular economy.
Johannes Haas is a skilled forester and wanted to build his family home using LIGNOLOC® rather than metal nails. After years of working in the trade, he has seen the devastating impact of using metal nails in timber walls and concluded, “Metal and wood do not get on well with each other.”
He wanted to future-proof his family home with fully recyclable materials, so that later down the line, his grandchildren or great-grandchildren weren’t left with hazardous waste residues. He was highly impressed with the quality of the LIGNOLOC® nail system and would wholeheartedly recommend it to builders across the construction trade.
See the video featuring Johannes Haas here: www.linkedin.com/posts/beck-fastening_esfunktioniert-klares-fazit-zum-themaactivity-7087378036660068352-X3Pf?utm_ source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
The LIGNOLOC® wooden nail system has been used for many projects yet and can be used for a wide variety of applications such as:
t Construction (timber frame construction, massive timber constructions (LCLT, CLT & NLT)
t Cladding: wooden exterior façades and interior wood cladding
t Flooring: OSB & real wood flooring
t Manufacturing: CNC applications
t Bespoke furniture and reclaimed wood designs
t Leisure: sauna designs to sailing boat features
t Funeral: wooden coffins
t Shipping & transportation: pallets and cratesLIGNOLOC® wooden nails and system packaging from Axxum has redefined sustainability with wooden boxes.
This year, BECK, and project partner KEHRATEC, presented a robot-assisted system for the fully or partially automated implementation of timber construction projects, particularly by preassembling completely glue-free and metal-free wall elements. Small and medium-sized timber construction companies and carpenters throughout Europe should be able to manufacture metal and glue-free mass timber wall elements themselves.
Beck was founded in 1904, by Karl Beck as a printing shop in Wildstein/Eger, in present-day Czech Republic. The family-owned company, now in its fourth generation, with Karl Beck’s greatgrandson Christian Beck as CEO, has grown to
become one of the world’s leading premium manufacturers of fastening systems and solutions and continues to drive the original pioneering idea forward.
The dynamic company is a multi-award-winning global powerhouse: with customers across more than 50 countries across the world and eight companies across six locations, including the company headquarters in Mauerkirchen, Upper Austria. Beck has won gold in The German Innovation Award (2022), first place in the ‘process’ category in The MaterialPREIS Award 2022, winner of The German Design Award in 2020 and many other awards.
The Beck brand goes ‘Beyond Fastening’ with its comprehensive range of products around the world such as:
t LIGNOLOC® – collated wooden nails- applicable to timber cladding, wooden furniture, exterior façades and production of cross-laminated timber/solid wood wall systems.
t FASCO® – extensive range of fasteners and tools: staples, pins, collated nails and pneumatic tools.
t SCRAIL® – highly innovative nail screw fasteners
t ET&F® – fastening systems for the light gauge steel construction sector. The special nails with ballistic points can perforate even the hardest substrates.
no pre-drilling required and most importantly, the most sustainable product on the market, with 66% less CO2 emissions.
“Moving forward, we are delighted that we have now obtained the official ETA (European Technical Assessment) code approval for all our LIGNOLOC® wooden nails. This means that the products can be used throughout the EU in the building sector.
“We will be launching our ‘ETA nails with head’ (and ring shaft) in September (the underlying EAD is pending for citation in the Official Journal of EU/ OJEU). The ETA covers nails with diameter 4.7mm and a length range from 52 to 100mm. We plan to launch 78mm as the next length, alongside the existing available 58mm nails. Inch by inch, we are moving forward towards greener, cleaner and better construction.”
Beck was the first company in the world to receive the Circular Globe Label for Circular Economy from Quality Austria/Swiss SQS for its company-wide culture of recyclability through products such as LIGNOLOC®. General Manager and CEO, Christian Beck, was delighted with the sustainability impact and pledged to continue working in this direction, “As a pioneer in fastening technology, we are particularly pleased to be taking bold steps in the field of circular economy and serving as a benchmark in our industry in the field of sustainable management,” adds Michaela.
t CLIP SYSTEMS – designed specifically for the meat processing sector, with an extensive range of aluminium clips, manual and semiautomatic, fully automatic clippers and accessories.
t MAGA® – cuttingedge meat press allows precision meat plating in quality catering and gastronomy: perfect presentation every time.
We spoke to Michaela Beck, Marketing Director, to find out more about what makes Beck so special, “Since 1904, we have offered our customers the highest quality as well as perfect, customised solutions for complex challenges, both as idea providers and implementers.
“We never stand still and continue to develop
our work because we love what we do. Every day, we strive to be even better and develop ideas that create excellent connections. When developing fastening systems, we think things from the ‘ground up.’ By leaving the status quo behind, we push boundaries and willingly taking unconventional paths. Only those who can also imagine a world without metal, can reinvent a nail made of wood and open up completely new perspectives for their customers.
“Our pioneering LIGNOLOC® wooden nails offer unparalleled benefits over more traditional metal nails. These include: corrosion and chemical-resistant, enhanced fire-resistance, patented technology, reworking without tool wear, precision-designed and aesthetically beautiful, saves time as
The company is steadfastly committed to a greener future; from the continuous expansion of the sustainable product portfolio to a sustainable transformation of the entire company (transition to e-fleet, agenda for energy self-sufficiency, etc).
“Our clear mission is the 360° ecologisation of the timber construction industry, with advanced fastening technology. We are helping builders understand that they can complete projects using sustainable/recyclable fastening systems,” concludes Michaela.
For more information on Beck, see the website below:
T +43 7724 2111-0
marketing@beck-fastening.com
www.beck-fastening.com/en
separation.
For plants without optical sorters, the same process stands, but with an alternative setup, collecting from a conveyor or screen, therefore enabling all waste operators to achieve a higher quality material stream.
quality material streams along with increased revenue from recovered recyclable materials while enabling the operator to meet their zero waste targets.
Flexible Plastic Packaging, or FPP, is a valuable resource that can be repurposed. It can also be an awkward contaminant to quality waste streams and recovering it can be a challenge.
Plastic flexible packaging or film is still a major consideration for waste management facilities and is present in most household waste streams. It has low value when compared with other major streams such as fibre, metals, or rigid plastics, but it still needs to be separated.
The Impact AirLift system has been designed to work in conjunction with optical separators which are
generally utilised to not only grade rigid polymer types, but increasingly to quality control fibre, OCC (old corrugated containers), and rigid plastic streams.
The AirLift system is a method of capturing the rejected materials as the optic targets them, sucking out the flexible packaging and film while the material is in flight. The collected film is pneumatically conveyed through ductwork and discharged in a central location for storage, baling or further
By working closely with optical separator suppliers, plant builders & MRF operators, Impact Air Systems have been able to optimise the separation efficiency and capture rates, maximising film collection rates, while minimising losses of major commodity stream such as fibre, OCC, and rigid plastics such as container, pots, tubs, and trays.
Impact’s AirLift ensures high
There has been particular interest in the UK and USA for the Impact AirLift, with 13 systems being installed in the USA throughout 2023 and 2024.
www.impactairsystems.com
The benefits of Impact’s AirLift solution include:
t Improves the quality of the material stream by effectively removing FPP
t Reduces maintenance of downstream machinery due to FPP blockages
t Potential to increase film and flexible packaging recovery to be used as a fuel source
t Significantly reduces manual sorting labour requirements and costs
t Significantly improves the performance of downstream processes by removing unwanted/tangling contaminants
t High material throughput capabilities
TheBreteau Foundation, a nonprofit organisation with a vision to provide access to quality education for all children, has teamed up with award-winning global independent animation studios ZAG and Mediawan Kids & Family to create an initiative aiming to inspire the next generation of ambassadors for change in the fight against plastic – Plastic Changemakers.
Created by educational and environmental experts and aligned to curricula, the FREE Plastic Changemakers Education Pack for teachers contains five modules for 7-11 year olds and seeks to equip children with a comprehensive knowledge about plastics and how individuals and communities can use it more responsibly. It is set out to address
the clear demand from teachers with a comprehensive Education Pack that contains a flexible set of ready-to-go lesson plans and activities designed to empower children to affect change.
The Breteau Foundation surveyed over 500 UK primary school teacher and found they have collectively spent £13 million of their own funds to provide pupils with environmental education. Teachers taking part in the study identified plastic pollution as being the most important subject to address when teaching children about the environment, followed by the climate crisis and sustainability.
Teachers can register for their free Plastic Changemakers pack by going to: https://breteaufoundation.org/ plastic-changemaker-site/
Eriez Europe is the market-leading designer, manufacturer and specialist laboratory division of the global Eriez network, with headquarters in Erie, Pennsylvania, USA. Through 12 international subsidiaries and an extensive sales representative network, Eriez designs, manufactures and markets across six continents.
Designed for longevity, the permanent magnetic separators are designed to last a lifetime, maintaining optimised field strength throughout.
This includes the Eriez Shred1™ ballistic metal separator: specially engineered for ferrous recovery in scrap recycling. The separator uses ballistics to separate iron-rich ferrous from the mixed metals, providing a low-copper ferrous product and a traditional #2 shred.
Established in 1942, by OF Merwin, a traveling grain milling equipment salesman, who repeatedly heard from his customers about the same issue: ferrous contamination in their processes. This has led to Eriez over time becoming a global driving market force in several key technology areas
including:
t magnetic separation
t flotation
t metal detection
t material handling equipment
To enable efficient recycling, the company offers end-to-end metal ferrous and nonferrous recovery through its scrap drum separators, ballistic metal separator and Eddy current separators. Eriez provides trusted technical solutions to the mining, food, recycling, packaging, aggregate and processing industries.
The metal recycling equipment from Eriez, either as individual units or complete systems, is designed for efficient and economical processing of automotive shredder residue (ASR), materials recovery facility (MRF), municipal solid waste (MSW), comingled recyclables, electronic scrap, glass cullet, plastic (PET), foundry sand and many other resource recovery operations.
Eriez Europe is located in South Wales, and we spoke to Marketing Manager, Hannah Williams, to find out more, “Our unique solution-orientated approach offers unique benefits to clients that set
us apart from our competitors. A long-standing commitment to innovation and expertise in separation technologies, ensures cutting-edge solutions tailored to specific industry needs. With a global presence, Eriez provides unmatched technical support and a comprehensive range of products, enabling clients to achieve superior results in magnetic separation, flotation, metal detection, and material handling.
“The innovative Shred1 from Eriez uses ballistics to efficiently separate iron-rich ferrous from much of the mixed metals and waste material in the postmagnetic drum flow phase of scrap processing lines. This separator delivers two distinct fractions: a premium low-copper ferrous product (in the range of 0.16-0.20% cu) and a traditional #2 shred. When the Shred1 Ballistic Separator is combined
with an Eriez P-Rex® Permanent Rare Earth Magnetic Drum, the entire process is improved further. This combined system recovers more ferrous metals and concentrates 75% of the postdrum magnet flow into a low-copper premium shred. It also eliminates the need for a scavenger magnet, a Z-box air system and hand-picking the entire flow, ultimately increasing revenue, and reducing overhead for scrap processors worldwide.”
Eriez is wholly committed to sustainability through its ethical and green metal recycling technologies and recently joined The British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA) trade association. The BMRA represents the UK metal recycling sector and dispenses the latest legislative information, including environmental issues.
With an impressive 3,500m2 manufacturing space, state-of-the art test centre and over 900 employees worldwide, Eriez is the undisputed leader of the design and manufacturing of magnetic separation, flotation, metal detection and metal feeding, screening, conveying and controlling equipment for process & metalworking industries.
Drums have always been a default choice for scrap metal yards to separate iron and steel from other materials and the Eriez magnetic scrap drum separators, are precision-designed for MRF/MSW recycling and waste-to-energy facilities. Perfect for a wide selection of industrial applications from: scrap automotive, municipal solid waste, forestry wood waste, to foundry sand and mineral processing, the deep magnetic fields enable optimal ferrous materials recovery. The permanent drums are designed to function with minimal electrical power, saving on energy costs, without any sacrifice to the maximum field depth of 15 inches (380mm), due to the state-of-the-art design software and magnetic circuits.
The Eddy Current Separator (ECS) is designed to remove nonferrous metallics in e-scrap processing, plastic recycling, wire chopping & processing, waste to energy and MRF/MSW recycling facilities.
As Eriez continues to focus on means to better serve its customers, we asked Hannah what the plans were for Eriez Europe going forward, “Eriez looks forward to expanding into new markets and refining its technologies, creating greater recourses for providing solutions to our customers.
“We will be exhibiting at Ecomondo: Italian Exhibition Group at the Rimini Expo Centre from 7-10 November 2023, presenting cutting-edge solutions in magnetic, vibratory, and metal detection tech, designed to enhance reliability and purity through the recycling process. We will be at Stand 24, Hall A2. We would love to meet and
network with existing and prospective customers.”
With more than 80 years of expertise in the industry, Eriez continues to be global powerhouse in separation technologies, with its driven, forwardthinking R&D approach to intelligent recycling systems.
To find out how the magnetic separation solutions can support your company today, see the website below and if you’re looking for a new STEM career challenge, see if Eriez Europe can support you in these endeavours.
www.eriez.eu
Fluid management solutions provider
Aliaxis has enhanced its Protecta-Line barrier system offering with the introduction of the new Protecta-Line Boundary Box, the only completely plastic boundary box fully approved for contaminated land usage.
With homes increasingly being built on brownfield sites that may contain substances harmful to people, it is vital to provide drinking water in a safe and efficient way and avoid the potential danger of exposure to significant surface waters or ground water pollution.
Boundary boxes are designed to house the meter at the boundary between the water main and the domestic supply and this new Protecta-Line solution not only provides a shield against all known contaminants, but it’s the only ‘Grade B’ load bearing height adjustable boundary box on the market. It is available with a
standard lid, as well as three further lid choices: slope, square cowl and fixed.
The ProtectaLine range is the market leading and original barrier pipe system for the safe transportation of drinking water through areas of contaminated land, or for sites with future potential contamination concerns.
Aliaxis will be showcasing this groundbreaking solution for the first time at Utility Week Live (Stand J16) at the NEC in Birmingham (16th-17th May).
For more information on Aliaxis’ extensive range of water supply solutions, visit: https://bit.ly/ProtectaLine_BoundaryBox
Contact
T +44 (0)330 111 4233 www.aliaxis.co.uk
is committed to promoting energy efficiency and conservation, with sustainable use of energy, we focus on delivering cost-effective and robust engineering. Using a modern approach that works across the UK in environments within the Water and Waste Water sector such as closed landfills, old coal mines, gasometer tower drainage, and AD BIO systems.
We also offer eco friendly technical interventions for problematic sites or site processes, delivering full maintenance packages and services, including smart monitoring systems that can provide a comprehensive system overview and advanced warning of any potential issues.
We problem solve and provide solutions for issues that clients may have. Our comprehensive technical skills set provide consultancy, migration, reverse engineering, plus
end to end solutions to the industry.
The company also provides a maintenance consultancy service that helps identify and implement cost savings across an entire sector.
Leachate Solutions provides a comprehensive range of services within the Water and Waste Water sectors. We Consult, Supply, Design and Install:
t Water Treatment Systems: Including Leachate & Landfill
t Pumps and Pumping Equipment
t Pump Maintenance and Management
t Pump Condition Reports
t Non Invasive Flow Meters –Magflow, Ultrasonic and Doppler
t Level Control Systems
t On-Site Instrument Calibration
t Analytical Services
T 01772 816593
enquiries@leachatesolutions.com
www.leachatesolutions.com
initiative promotes taking the Unblocktober promise, which involves pledging to keep potentially harmful waste materials out of one's drains for the whole month.
This includes any of the following products:
t Dental floss
t Rubber gloves
We have poured harmful substances down our drains for decades. This has resulted in the formation of fatbergs that are harmful to our drains and to our environment.
impact of poor drain health.
The drainage experts Lanes Group have announced the launch of their fifth Unblocktober campaign. The campaign is calling on both individuals and businesses to take the Unblocktober pledge. The pledge asks the UK public to improve our drain health and reduce the impact that our waste is having on our climate and environment in the UK.
Unblocktober is a revolutionary month-long initiative that began in 2019 and is entirely driven by the British public. It takes place in October and aims to enhance the health of our drains, sewers, watercourses and seas. The
t Margarine
t Butter
t Lard
t Cooking oil – pre or post-cooking
t Cooking sauces and condiments
t Food – even crumbs
t Wet wipes
t Face masks
t Tampons, applicators and wrappers
t Sanitary/menstrual pads and towels
t Nappies
t Condoms
t Cotton buds
t Contact lenses
t Bandages and plasters
t Razor blades
These large fatbergs clog our sewers and drains, making them less efficient than they should be. At a time when we just cannot afford to be causing any more environmental damage, this has had significant ecological effects, and is increasing pollution in our waterways.
Jacob Larkin, spokesperson for Unblocktober, said, “Since our first campaign in 2019, we've seen signups to Unblocktober rise from 4,500 to over 66,000. We are incredibly proud of the efforts of the British public and businesses to tackle the climatic and ecological
The designer at the centre of a campaign to persuade LEGO to make a new model featuring drainage engineers tackling a fatberg has told Lanes Group plc the Whitechapel fatberg was the main inspiration for his idea.
Wastewater operatives from Lanes, working for water company Thames Water, carried out most of the work to clear the giant fatberg in London’s East End in 2017.
The designer, who goes by the name of MOCingbird, revealed that after reading about the Whitechapel fatberg, which weighed over 130 tonnes, he set about creating a slightly smaller one – out of LEGO bricks.
MOCingbird acknowledges his inspiration for the proposed new LEGO model – and appeals for continued support for his idea – in a question and answer interview given to Lanes, the UK’s largest independent wastewater and drainage specialist.
He also reveals:
t Lanes was the first drainage company to write to LEGO supporting the model idea,
helping trigger a similar response from other organisations in the UK and the USA.
t The UK drainage industry was instrumental in the fatberg model achieving the 10,000 votes needed for LEGO to consider manufacturing the fatberg model.
t The designer said he would be happy if Unblocktober – the campaign first launched by Lanes to protect sewers and seas from misuse and pollution was associated with a final model.
As the model – Sewer Heroes: Fighting the Fatberg – was not one of those selected for production by LEGO when considered by its panel of experts, MOCingbird is determined to put it forward again.
That will involve reaching the 10,000 vote target yet again, and he reveals he still needs thousands of votes.
Lanes Group Development Director, Richard Leigh, said, “We’re 100% behind this second push to have the model marketed by LEGO. It would be an excellent way to give consumers an insight into the challenges of keeping sewers flowing across the world, and how they can help drainage
“Now, however, is not the time to rest on our laurels. Unblocktober 2023 gives us the opportunity to build on the key wins of the last five years and continue to improve our drain health. Reducing the environmental impact of issues such as fatbergs and wet wipe usage is a key factor improving the overall health of our waterways. Increased awareness of poor habits during Unblocktober will continue to have a positive impact and give the environment a fighting chance.”
For more information on the campaign and how to get involved, visit: www.unblocktober.org
T 0800 526 488
www.lanesfordrains.co.uk
specialists like Lanes achieve that.
“MOCingbird’s creativity has already raised huge awareness about the topic, and the problems caused by sewer misuse. I have no doubt, given the public’s fascination with fatbergs, the model would be a best seller for LEGO if people could buy it. I would urge everyone to vote for Sewer Heroes: Fighting the Fatberg again.”
Follow this link to vote for Sewer Heroes: Fighting the Fatberg: https://ideas.lego.com/projects/ e6d994cf-76c9-4275-86c0-19cbcb90db73
T 0800 526 488 www.lanesfordrains.co.uk
The UK’s only two-day on-farm regenerative agriculture conference, Groundswell, sold out for another year, attracting over 6,500 attendees, with 75% either directly farming or involved in a farming enterprise.
With over 100 sessions and 200 speakers, from across the world, the theme this year centred on “what is regenerative agriculture”, creating a welcoming stage for technical experts, experienced regenerative farmers, leading researchers, politicians, retailers, and NGOs to explore and debate the topic.
Taking place from 28-29 June 2023 and now in its eighth year, the event is hosted by the Cherry family at Lannock Manor Farm in Hertfordshire and brings together a wide range of discussion, supporting both theoretical and practical applications of agroecology.
To ensure the event was inclusive for everyone, sessions included ‘First Principles’ for those at the start of their journey, through to advanced sessions looking at integrated
Revolutionising regenerative farming with innovative solutions
Abundigro presents a groundbreaking approach to regenerative farming through two remarkable products: OxyAgri and Ukelp. Our mission is to transform agricultural practices by enhancing plant health, promoting sustainability, and elevating yields, all while championing environmental stewardship.
water usage, a trifecta for regenerative farming success.
Ukelp: Harnessing the power of nature
pest and disease management and enhancing underground communications.
Recordings of many of the sessions from this year’s event are available on Groundswell’s YouTube channel and dates for next year are 27-28 June 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Abundigro, Agricarbon, Agrii, Downforce Technologies, Gaiago, Interagro (UK) Ltd, Natures Crops International & Olmix Group & UPL Europe Ltd. Further details can be found on this page and the next three.
https://groundswellag.com
In a time of transformational change in our Agri-food system, never before have farmers been so keen to understand the sustainability credentials of their actions. Agrii, a UK agronomy provider, are leading the way in providing holistic advice, utilising new technologies and the best scientific evidence to improve on farm sustainability.
Recognising the demands for emission reductions, Agrii’s role is to help farmers understand how to adopt lower carbon practices while maintaining viability. Working with academia and manufacturers, they are working towards a net zero food supply chain.
It all starts with growing resilience, by focusing on soil health and helping farmers adopt management practices to maximise efficiency. An
improved soil supports a healthier plant, enhanced biodiversity, and increased carbon storage.
Secondary to appropriate soil management, inputs become an important consideration. An example being nitrogen fertilisers. With crucial importance for maintaining food security and reducing emissions, Agrii have been expanding their range of more efficient nutrition products. Their ‘greener’ range have a less intensive manufacturing process, and can help reduce nitrous oxide emissions by up to 61%.
By adopting an integrated approach to farm advice, Agrii aim to provide sustainable solutions to produce quality, affordable food with a lower environmental impact.
www.agrii.co.uk/sustainability
OxyAgri: The ultimate farming solution OxyAgri, our flagship product, redefines farming by merging cuttingedge botanical extracts with controlled oxygen release. Notably, OxyAgri isn't just about plant growth; it encompasses a holistic approach. Its unique formulation not only nurtures plant health and root development but also takes a proactive stance in preserving water quality. OxyAgri plays a pivotal role in maintaining oxygenrich irrigation systems, ensuring clean dripper lines and nozzles. Simultaneously, it expertly aerates the soil profile, fostering optimal conditions for plant growth while mitigating disease-prone surfaces. This synergy ensures thriving crops, nutrient-rich soils, and sustainable
Derived from pure cold-pressed Ecklonia maxima kelp seaweed suspension, Ukelp is a game-changer in plant health enhancement. Boasting biostimulant properties, Ukelp bolsters plant vigor, root growth, and stress resistance. Its exceptional nutrient content, including essential minerals, vitamins, amino acids, polysaccharides, and growth hormones, magnifies nutrient uptake, fostering robust and resilient plants. Beyond its plantcentric benefits, Ukelp rejuvenates soil, propelling microbial activity and optimizing structure.
As advocates for regenerative farming, Abundigro proudly champions sustainable solutions that bridge innovation and nature. OxyAgri and Ukelp stand as testament to our commitment to empowering farmers with tools that deliver outstanding results while fostering environmental integrity. Experience the future of farming with Abundigro.
www.abundigro.com
Thissummer, UPL opened the doors of their brandnew Shray Hill research facility in Shropshire, revealing an incredible array of trials focused primarily on biological solutions.
Illustrating UPL’s commitment to more sustainable crop protection, 70% of the research at Shray Hill includes work on bio-pesticides, bio-stimulants and plant or soil health enhancers. They market these products under their Natural Plant Protection (NPP) brand. “UPL has been on a journey to be more sustainable over the last five years,” explains Gemma Nokes, UPL’s head of marketing for the UK and Ireland. “We started by creating OpenAg research sites like this one. Next, we developed the NPP brand to promote the biosolutions we bring to the market.
“The most successful products in our NPP portfolio are Iodus and Thiopron (sulphur), which are biofungicides. These are both registered fungicides, which is crucial because they have been fully
approved for disease control according to a weight of evidence we have demonstrated to the authorities.
“We do not see NPP replacing conventional chemistry. We want biological and chemical crop protection to work together in appropriate programmes. This will create a sustainable approach which maintains what we already have and develops exciting new solutions.”
To drive the adoption of biological solutions by farmers, UPL’s UK country manager, Vaughn Stansfield, believes that their role is to provide a body of evidence that NPP can deliver the same value as conventional crop protection.
“Agronomists and farmers are always balancing risk and reward,” says Vaughn. “They need to have confidence that the data on our NPP products has been collected to a high standard. We must develop quality products that deliver a benefit in use.
“Take Iodus, for example. We launched it two years ago as a plant health elicitor to be applied at T0 in winter wheat fungicide programmes. It is an unconventional product used within a conventional framework so that farmers can understand it more easily. We have seen the adoption rate increase over the two years, and now agronomists and farmers have witnessed the product perform in a high disease-pressure year. We expect its use to increase significantly next spring.
“NPP is central to UPL’s strategy, illustrated by our investment in R&D in this area. Our target is for double-digit growth of biosolutions every year for the foreseeable future. If the industry is going to transition to a more sustainable footing, then this kind of ambition is required to rise to the challenge,” concludes Vaughn.
www.upl-ltd.com
www.npp.ag
Agricarbon is a market-leading provider of soil carbon measurement at scale, serving all soil types across the UK and across Europe. For farmers, landowners, and businesses looking to assess their soil carbon stocks, Agricarbon offers scientifically driven, evidence-based sampling and analysis at its on-site processing facility.
The company was at this year’s Groundswell Agricultural Festival from 2829 June, the leading, annual regenerative agricultural event, to showcase its leading soil testing technology.
With the recent announcement of the first opening of a European hub: near Warsaw, Poland, Agricarbon is committed to expanding its unparalleled soil carbon technology across European countries and further afield.
It is well known that increasing soil carbon has a twofold impact: improved soil health and higher yields for crops.
Supporting natural soil microbes such as fungi, archaea and protozoa is great for worm populations and enhanced ecobiodiversity.
The data speaks for itself – Agricarbon has sampled over 32,000 hectares and quantified an astonishing 2 million tonnes
of carbon, which amounts quite possibly to the biggest database on soil carbon in the world.
The talented leadership team include world renowned soil scientist: Dr Helaina Black and her team of soil science experts, helping facilitate how soil can work as a carbon sink, while simultaneously supporting food production and natural biodiversity.
Contact
T +44 (0)1382
413 270
info@agricarbon.co.uk https://agricarbon.co.uk
The highly anticipated Groundswell Event in Hertfordshire on 28th and 29th June did not disappoint, with farmers, researchers and experts in the agricultural industry coming together from across the world to learn and share knowledge on sustainable food production through regenerative farming practices.
Interagro (UK) Ltd, leading adjuvant and biostimulant experts, were among the growing number of exhibitors in attendance offering practical solutions to help farmers achieve more sustainable and profitable food production through superior plant health.
Growing in popularity year-on-year the ‘Glastonbury-for-farmers’ style event was full of buzz, learning and positive attitudes, with Interagro part of the Knowledge Trail showcasing how its plant-based seed treatment Newton,
offers a more natural and eco-friendly approach to crop establishment, by boosting seeds rather than treating plants.
Newton is increasingly being adopted by farmers due to the recognition of its proven abilities to enhance plant growth, productivity, and resilience.
Newton’s potential to improve crop establishment, work in harmony with soil biology, and put plants in the best possible position to acquire moisture and nutrients throughout its lifetime – so they are less reliant on synthetic inputs – has contributed to its increasing use.
To find out more about Newton and Interagro’s adjuvant and biostimulant range visit: www.interagro.co.uk
Get in touch on: 01279 714970 or email: info@interagro.co.uk
Follow on Twitter: @InteragroUK
Downforce Technologies, a pioneering leader in science-led, data-driven land management solutions, has launched an intuitive web based platform that revolutionises the way soil health and biodiversity are measured and optimised. With a focus on soil organic carbon levels and promoting sustainable agriculture practices, their groundbreaking solution provides a complete view of the land's carbon profile through high-resolution data analysis.
Its user-friendly online platform easily allows individuals to remotely assess and oversee soil health and biodiversity on a significant scale. It eliminates the need for labour intensive soil sampling methods by providing precise analysis based on recent history as well as potential for soil carbon storage. Furthermore, the interface provides precise insights for enhancing carbon levels while upholding sustainability strategies without compromise.
“Our mission is to combat soil
degradation head-on, ensuring a resilient and thriving planet for future generations," commented Jacqueline McGlade, Chief Scientific Officer at Downforce Technologies. "By harnessing our platform's capabilities, we empower Landowners, Food & Fashion Supply Chains and Financial Institutions to make informed decisions that preserve and restore soil health on a global scale.”
Downforce Technologies recognises the urgency in addressing soil degradation, which currently affects over 30% of the world’s soil. Soil erosion not only poses a threat to global food security but also exacerbates climate change by releasing carbon into the atmosphere. With their pioneering approach to land management, Downforce Technologies is committed to combatting this pressing global challenge head-on.
For more information and to arrange a demo, please visit: www.downforce.tech or contact: George@downforce.tech
Followingon from the successful launch into the UK and Irish market at this year’s Groundswell Festival, Gaiago is encouraged by the interest and commitment to its sustainable products.
Gaiago’s portfolio harnesses the very latest innovation for revitalising soils, any farmer, grower, horticulturist or land manager’s biggest asset. The solutions consist of unique formulations of natural elements, protecting yields and empowering growers to evolve their practices to a more regenerative farming. Products registered as biostimulants are now available in the UK.
The current portfolio is supported by a strong R&D pipeline developed both internally and externally, notably through a scientific joint-venture with a renowned Agricultural University, UniLaSalle.
Soils – understanding the problem
As a global issue, it is clear that
there is a need to embrace and engage with a new way of thinking around soils. Soils should be treated as one of the biggest assets we have to avoid the continuing loss of fertility and current negative impacts on nature.
Gaiago is making the change within soils and their whole team is committed to educating and offering solutions to growers for the production of healthy, fertile, and sustainable products. “Mankind thrives when soils thrive” is Gaiago’s mantra
Innovative solutions on the ground Alongside Gaiago’s leading soil probiotics FreeN100 & FreePK, its prebiotic biostimulant Nutrigeo® offers improved soil structure in less than 6 months, enhances fertility and growth, and accelerates the humification process – the source of carbon storage in soils.
Find out more at: www.gaiago.eu
Secures the yield and the regulation of nutrition via bacteria throughout the crop cycle
Secures the first vegetative stages
Natural source of non-leachable and non-volatile nitrogen
Becoming a sustainable solutionist isn’t easy – especially as biostimulants seem to have this snake-oil reputation even after significant positive scientific data being published over recent years. Like us homosapien’s needing nutrition and vitamins – plants need regular supply of both macro and micronutrients to maximise their yield potential. Like us they can and do suffer stress over the seasonal growing period. So, what’s the solution?
Biostimulants
t Better root development
t Increased uptake
t Improved macro/micro availability
t Aids efficient N uptake
t Reduction of abiotic and biotic stress levels
Natures Crops International is a global supplier of specialty plant oils for food, supplements, cosmetics and pet industries. Using seeds grown on contract with UK farmers, they offer high margin buy-back contracts for low input, regeneratively suitable break crop species such as Ahiflower® and Meadowfoam.
As the richest known non-GM plant-based Omega 3,6,9 fatty acid source, Ahiflower has a number of expanding markets in the food, supplement, cosmetic and pet arenas. As a replacement for fish oils, the demand is increasing annually. Ahiflower is an excellent rotational break crop, and could replace OSR, linseed, beans, sugar beet, etc, in the crop rotation.
Meadowfoam is an attractive winter
sown annual plant, the seeds of which produce an oil valuable in cosmetics for its excellent moisturising, UV protection and stability properties. The seeds of Meadowfoam contain around 25-30% oil. Natures Crops International have exclusive rights to a number of high yielding Meadowfoam varieties.
Contracts are only available to meet known orders, at a fixed price not linked to external market or commodity crop sources. Contact Simon Meakin at: smeakin@naturescrops.com if interested in becoming a grower for Ahiflower or Meadowfoam.
T +44 (0)1904 520131 smeakin@naturescrops.com www.naturescrops.com
Often confusing and often left out –understanding the plant’s requirements is a start. Then it’s a case of adding in sustainable biostimulants translocators to help enhance and improve leaf uptake. Active liquid foliar applied micronutrients and biostimulants (beneficial translocators/ enhancers) are 90% soluble translocating very quickly and easily into the plant. Which means any products tank mixed with the above will result in a quicker more efficient uptake.
The addition of seaweed, humic, fulvic acid and lignin (the biostimulant bit) do bring greater results to the table with:
Biostimulants can be summed up as metabolic enhancers, containing active plant growth substances such as auxins and cytokinins which are beneficial to the plant’s development mainly derived from the sustainable seaweed source. Add in nutrients and hey presto…
Biostimulants (plant health enhancers) have the market potential to grow considerable bigger than the current pesticide supply industry.
May well do – with all the interest in regeneration agriculture, carbon footprints, less fertiliser usage recent legislation and sustainable farming, biostimulants may at last loose that negative snake oil image they now don’t deserve and be redefined as what they really are a sustainable Neptune harvest.
www.olmix.com
www.olmix.com
Our range of bio-solutions provides plant production professionals with proven tools for use in the fields of agriculture, sports and amenity turf
The preferred partner of farmers for agroecological transition
Develops algae-based solutions for farmers, veterinarians and feedmillers and complete programmes to improve animals’ welfare, performance and health
Utility Week Live is the UK’s leading utilities industry exhibition, brought about by the experts at Faversham House Ltd, who are behind the leading business media brands in the gas, water and electricity industries.
The annual event is attended by over 3,000 senior utilities professionals, including energy retailers, gas and electricity network operators, water and wastewater companies, and water retailers.
Utility Week Live is the annual opportunity to access the UK’s water, gas, and electricity utilities – under one roof. Visitors can be recognised as a key solution provider and meet their target audience face-to-face at this two day event, attended by 100% of UK water companies, major energy retailers, gas network operators, and electricity networks.
Taking place from 16-17 May 2023 at the NEC, Birmingham, the event welcomed thousands of visitors, hundreds of exhibitors and hosted six simultaneous content programmes, making Utility Week Live an unmissable exhibition for all involved in the utilities industries.
Visitors could align their business with the following five themes:
t Innovation – Innovation remains at the heart of UWL, and the organisers were delighted to welcome the UK’s leading utilities, who were showcasing their own innovation programmes.
t Smart utilities – This is where water and energy companies discover the digitally enabled solutions and innovation that will get them to net zero.
t Smart infrastructure – The show brought together engineers, contractors and kit and tech providers with the client utilities to forge new partnerships for accelerated delivery.
t Flexible energy – Where energy supply meets end users, flexible energy is where most of the innovation in utilities will
egeplast UK believes the development of innovative pipe systems which address climate change and UK infrastructure issues to ensure adequate future water supplies will be key to its future success.
Part of a €200-million company, egeplast UK already manufactures advanced pipe systems which help protect water supplies. These include continuous monitoring systems which notify water companies as soon as a leak occurs to minimise water or sewage loss. It also makes pipe products which have protective outer skins to protect them against damage during installation or through
localised groundwork and was the first company to market barrier pipe in Europe, a product designed to protect drinking water from harmful contaminants.
The company is now looking to build upon its success by investing in the further development of systems which address the longer-term issues being face by water companies with a focus on water leakage and carbon reduction. Solutions that reduce the carbon output during installation are increasingly popular and PE systems that enable trenchless installation support this.
With innovation is at its core, egeplast is committed to providing future-proofed pipe systems which improve environmental performance, help deliver net zero and ultimately support a better life for future generations.
www.egeplast.uk
take place over the next 30 years. The show brought together players in this space for the first time in the UK.
t Customer, culture and workforce – The show showcased advanced solutions for customer service and workforce management, including ways to ensure vulnerable customers are identified and served appropriately.
The next event will be held from 21-22 May 2024 at Birmingham’s NEC. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: egeplast UK & MW Polymer Products Ltd. Further details can be found on this page. Contact www.utilityweeklive.co.uk
MWPolymer Products Ltd are determined in providing sustainable, future proof and cost-effective repair systems for the remediation of pipe networks.
t We are committed to follow practices that protect our planet.
t Deliver repair systems that are efficient and innovative.
t Create significant value for our customers and society at large.
Managers face the daily challenge of deciding to repair or replace damaged pipes in their network. Opting to repair, using our simple but robust repair systems, provides significant sustainability advantages and is an efficient use of resources, thereby promoting an environmentally conscious approach to asset maintenance. Our repair systems focus on addressing
specific areas of damage, thereby eliminating the requirement to completely replace the whole system. Consequently, repair methods make notable contributions to sustainable resource management by minimising waste and reducing overall consumption. In addition, all our repair systems are Gas Industry Standard (GIS) approved, providing a 50 year life seal.
For further information on our repair systems, visit: www.mwpolymers. co.uk or speak with our team directly on +44 (0)1332 835001.
Capable of offsetting typically around 30% of the energy demands for water heating, solar thermal systems are ideal for organisations which rely on large amounts of domestic hot water (DHW).
Modular, high-performance flat plate collectors with integrated solar fluid (glycol) drain back are by far the most efficient way to heat water with solar energy. The solar fluid transfers solar energy as heat to the collector’s meander absorber to system water via an indirect cylinder. Drain back prevents overheating damage and increases
a system’s lifespan. Together this offers a smaller footprint compared to equivalent solar photovoltaics (PV) for DHW. A typical 4 kW PV system requires approximately 16 panels covering 25m2 of roof to match just three flat plate collectors covering just 6.6m2 roof area. This makes solar thermal a prime choice when roof or façade space is limited.
For existing buildings with gasfired water heating solar thermal is employed as a system pre-heat, reducing demands for gas to actively cutting carbon emissions from the buildings. Commercial new build and refurbishment however are either mandated or opting to shift to direct electric which remains substantially more expensive to operate than gas – currently by a factor of 3.8. This has driven interest in hybrid approaches which harnesses solar thermal preheat. Necessary after heat is simply secured
with a packaged Adveco FUSION E electric water heating system combining an electric boiler and cylinder.
The hybrid approach can be further extended with the inclusion of air source heat pumps (ASHP) to provide the initial pre-heat for the system. Operating at lower temperatures with the cold feed maximises the efficiency of the heat pump, reducing electrical operating costs and raising working flow temperatures from 10°C to 40°C. This is not hot enough for commercial applications, so the pre-heated water is then passed to the mid-solar thermal system to boost the working flow temperatures to at least 50°C. Although not operating at maximum potential, there is enough advantage gained from solar thermal to warrant the additional system complexity and capital investment.
During summer months it is possible for the ASHP and solar thermal system to deliver the necessary 60°C working flows. But to ensure safe, consistent, and necessary high operational temperatures, the water is passed to the FUSION electric water heater. Here final consistent water temperatures of
up to 65°C are assured year-round.
To date, Adveco has designed and supports more than 800 live solar thermal systems across the UK and such hybrid approaches are unavoidable if commercial projects seek a sensible, practical, and cost-effective path to lowcarbon hot water.
https://adveco.co/
https://adveco.co/products/waterheating/solar-thermal/
