36 minute read
TECHNICAL FOCUS
from FC&A January 21
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SENSORS: THE HIDDEN WORKFORCE IN A BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
In a world of smart buildings, the link between building management systems and IT has never been more critical, but these computer-based systems require an army of efficient sensors to ensure a building’s performance is optimised. Stacey Lucas, Commercial and Marketing Director of smart sensor supplier Sontay, offers insight into the vital role of sensing devices and how they help create smarter buildings.
SONTAY
We reportedly spend more than 90% of our lives indoors, whether at home, school or in the workplace, with air quality being crucial to the levels of comfort felt within these spaces. Ventilation, temperature and pressure regulation contribute to maintaining a happy atmospheric medium, which, in a work environment, helps increase employee contentment, leading to increased productivity and fewer sick days.
Sensors can control a myriad of elements that affect our indoor climate, including temperature, which in relation to an office environment is found to be around 22°C. However, relative humidity, if not managed correctly, can make a room feel hotter or colder than the actual temperature reading. A sensor can help overcome this issue by providing data to a BMS managing humidity levels and ensuring an ideal 50% reading is maintained.
In terms of air quality, airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – pollutants which are found in paints and other building materials – are known to have a detrimental effect. The same harmful chemicals are also present in hand sanitisers, aggressive cleaning products and detergents, the demand for which has been unprecedented since the onset of the coronavirus crisis. Air quality sensors are able to measure VOC levels and alert occupants of the need to take action when a potentially hazardous reading is recorded.
Sensors enable accurate data
Building sensors, installed as part of an efficient building management system, offer an ingeniously smart and effective way of remotely monitoring indoor conditions. Designers and consultants need to be sure the equipment being used will perform as efficiently as possible, which is why access to accurate, reliable data detected initially by a sensor will ensure products endure the test of time and help maintain the optimum environment for inhabitants.
As well as assuring a system works efficiently once installed, a consultant must also consider whether the products they have specified will perform as intended. On handover, sensors give eventual asset owners more control over the performance of a building and its energy usage; a benefit that not only helps reduce heating and lighting costs but also facilitates a significant reduction in a building’s carbon footprint. As well as assuring quality, performance and efficiency, sensors could be a factor in driving environmental initiatives, such as the UK Government’s pledge for carbon-neutral status by 2050.
The hidden workforce
With clean lines and minimalist detail commonplace in modern building design, it is no wonder the humble sensor has been fashioned to look modest. However, do not be deceived; what the sensor lacks in size, it makes up for in power.
One or two sensors on the wall are responsible for responding to and monitoring all the conditions of any controlled space. On the other side of the wall behind the scenes, there are scores of devices that are constantly managing the conditions of a controlled space. Air handling units are responsible for supplying and circulating air around a building, and also have to extract stale air from the premises. If fresh air is introduced into a building to ventilate a certain room, if it is freezing cold outside, the temperature of the air will have to be increased. It may also need to be filtered or dehumidified.
Here, sensors come into their own, testing and monitoring the air so that data can be used to change the conditions of the controlled space. There will be sensors measuring the humidity and temperature of the air, sending information to the controller and, in turn, to the air handling unit on the other side so that air can be cooled and particles directed out. There’s an entire operation going on behind the scenes, of which sensors play an essential role in detecting whether an indoor environment is comfortable for occupants.
Efficient installation
Whether it is a new-build or refurbishment project, system integration is one of the key foundations for creating a smart, energy-efficient building. Whilst sensors are an important element of a data-driven asset, for a systems integrator, a sensor’s installation must be as efficient as its eventual performance. Sontay understands that system integration is complex work, which is why its sensors offer ease of installation and commissioning. Many systems integrators need things immediately, and as a supplier, Sontay is well-poised to swiftly deliver what is required.
Though relatively small in size, building sensors can have a huge part to play in ensuring properties, particularly workspaces, are managed safely, sustainably and profitably. Like a friend we never knew we had, these smart little devices look out for us when we’re in the office, and look out for the office when we’re at home. They are becoming evermore vital to the way we work today and in the future.
There has always been a relationship between design and the marrying up of form, function and aesthetics. While the popularity of materials and styles comes and goes over the years, how products look, feel and perform is constant. This interesting interplay is explored in the latest online theme from Troldtekt A/S, the Danish manufacturer of acoustic panels.
TROLDTEKT
Comprising expert articles, white papers and interviews, the ‘Architectural Beauty’ theme looks at the concept of architectural beauty and the importance of aesthetics in leading certification schemes for sustainable building. It acknowledges that it is not always possible to harmonise the aesthetic with the practical but that there are some ways in which they can be combined to provide value to a building while enhancing its beauty.
Acoustic product manufacturers, such as Troldtekt, embrace this relationship and are at the forefront of practical, aesthetic and highperformance products and design. Troldtekt’s woodwool panelling is a perfect canvas, allowing architects and designers to realise their most creative schemes, safe in the knowledge that acoustical performance will not be compromised.
www.troldtekt.co.uk 01978 664255
Since 1903, Copenhagen has presented annual awards for beautiful buildings, landscaping and urban spaces within the city. The Copenhagen Building Award comprises four categories – new buildings, restoration, refurbishment and urban environments.
Copenhagen’s Grøndalsvængets School (pictured) is one of the winning projects chosen by the Copenhagen Building Awards 2020. The school has undergone thorough renovation and expansion, all designed by JJW Arkitekter. Now, this stunning example of architectural beauty shows how large bright spaces, natural daylight and interesting design works well with high-performance products. It also shows how wood-wool acoustic panels make such designs possible while dampening ambient and reverberated noise which would otherwise be unbearable for users.
info@troldtekt.co.uk
Riserdeck® A modern high specification composite alternative
to traditional galvanised steel and M&E service riser flooring.
Riserdeck® is easy to install.
Simply cast into fresh concrete, as the building is constructed, or retrofit at a later stage.”
riserdeck@steponsafety.co.uk 01206 396446
BENEFITS:
Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Quick and easy to install.
Excellent load bearing capabilities. Lightweight and easy to handle. Bi-directional spanning.
Corrosion and weather resistant. Non-conductive. Multi-purpose. Cost effective. Fire resistant (BS 476.) Anti-slip- surface
www.steponsafety.co.uk
WITH YOU FROM START TO FINISH
We don’t just work with natural stone; we have a passion for it and our natural stone range has been carefully selected to ensure it combines versatility with aesthetics to enhance your outdoor environment. Whatever your needs, our team of natural stone experts are always on hand to ensure your project gets finished to a premium standard. You’d expect nothing less from the leading natural stone supplier in the UK. Discover the potential of natural stone for yourself www.marshalls.co.uk/naturalstone
THE BENEFITS OF DUAL CERTIFICATION FOR SOCIAL HOUSING PROVIDERS
Social landlords can reassure tenants of the fire safety and security performance of doorsets by specifying products that have achieved independent, third-party dual certification.
DOOR-STOP INTERNATIONAL
Door-Stop International and Warringtonfire, explain the benefits of choosing fire doorsets with this additional layer of testing:
What is the difference between a fire door and a fire doorset? A fire door usually only refers to the fire door leaf. The door leaf is installed into a compatible frame, complete with its compatible essential ironmongery. A fire doorset is supplied pre-assembled in the frame, manufactured to the required size and includes all of the correct components such as ironmongery and seals.
Fire doorsets should be third-party tested and certificated using an independent UKAS-accredited test house and certification body such as Warringtonfire and BM TRADA. This provides assurances on the doorset’s performance and the manufacturer’s integrity.
What is dual certification? “Dual scope certification is where fire and security performance is certified under the responsibility of a single certification body,” explains Mark West, Technical Development Engineer at Warringtonfire. “All the testing and assessments are carried out to carefully ensure both performances are maintained, the scope of certification and specification is identical, and any security features do not affect the fire performance and vice versa.”
How does it compare to other fire door testing? “Dual scope certification provides confidence that the product meets its required performance for both fire and security, and that any changes to the product are developed with fire, security and all other relevant performances in mind,” says Mark. “Any future product enhancements will be rigorously assessed in all applicable areas. This ensures that neither fire nor security performance is compromised at any point, a position that cannot necessarily be achieved when the certification is not linked in this way.”
Warringtonfire and BM TRADA, which are both part of the Element Group, are one of the few certification bodies in the UK with the technical competence to offer this dual certification through their Certisecure, Certifire and Q-Mark certification schemes.
Certisecure, a scheme recognised by Secured by Design (SBD), is used by Warringtonfire to demonstrate a fire doorset’s security credentials.
How does dual certification fit into wider fire safety legislation? Dual certification provides all the information required for the golden thread; one of the recommendations of the Hackitt Review.
In MHCLG’s response to the Building a Safer Future consultation, it announced that all 53 of the recommendations from the Hackitt Review were going to be implemented.
The response gave more clarity on the new regulatory regime and defined the duty-holders for the design, construction and refurbishment phases of a building. The client, principal designer and principal contractor have a vital role in creating and maintaining the golden thread.
At the third and final gateway, the client must submit information on the final building which will form part of the golden thread data.
When the building has been approved, the golden thread will be handed over to the accountable person who, alongside the building safety manager, will keep the golden thread updated with the latest building information. This includes any future refurbishment works.
What can social landlords do to improve fire safety in their buildings? “Fire safety is about hundreds, if not thousands, of different factors, that need to work together as a complete system if an emergency happens. Refusing to take a holistic view of fire safety is short-sighted, and as we know, deadly,” says Hannah Mansell, Group Technical Director of Premdor Crosby.
“Those that sit and wait for legislation to make buildings safer are going to be waiting for a very long time. There are no excuses. Those responsible for fire safety need to get with the programme now.”
The new Door-Stop International fire and security doorset range aims to be the product of choice for those reviewing their fire safety strategies and who want to improve their existing buildings or specify new developments.
Designed by Door-Stop, a subsidiary of Premdor Crosby, the timber core product with GRP facings is third-party certificated. A robust base of primary test evidence has been used as the foundation for certification.
The Door-Stop Fire and Security DualCertificated Doorset is Certifire-certified by Warringtonfire. Although it is not a requirement for timber fire doors, it has been furnace tested from both directions to provide additional assurances to building owners and occupants.
“Do not be complacent; third-party certification is not the singular factor that will find the holy grail of fire safety in a building,” warns Hannah. “Even a perfectly produced fire door will not perform to expectations if installed incorrectly.
“Installation of fire doorsets needs to be considered hand-in-hand with the product itself, as a complete system. This is why we have also tested our doorset with a range of lineal gap sealing systems to provide this assurance of the ‘system’ working.
“Installation must also be carried out in accordance with certification and the manufacturer’s guidance, using approved material and methods. This must be supported by regular maintenance to ensure that the product will perform in an emergency. If it isn’t installed correctly, certification is invalid, and the required level of safety and protection may not be provided to the building’s occupants.”
Regular, open communication with residents is also key. Every doorset that Door-Stop supplies is shipped with detailed installation instructions and a resident guide. The guide includes an easy-to-follow checklist that will help residents avoid the common pitfalls that prevent fire doors performing in the event of an emergency, as well as the methods to report concerns, find out further information and fully trace their fire doorset back to its original certification and specification.
PROFAB ACCESS PROVES ITS WORTH AT ONE BISHOPSGATE PLAZA
Situated in the centre of the City of London, One Bishopsgate Plaza is one of the first high-rise residential and hospitality developments to be built in the capital for a number of years.
PROFAB ACCESS
Once construction has been completed, the flagship 43-storey tower will house London’s first luxury five-star Pan Pacific Hotel, which will comprise 237 rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a 370-capacity Pacific Ballroom, Square Mile’s first dedicated ballroom.
From levels 21 to 41, the development will house 160 luxury one-, two- and three-bed residential apartments, or ‘Sky Residences’, which will boast panoramic views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks.
As part of the construction process, over 200 steel riser doors from Profab Access in a range of door leaf configurations and sizes from its 4000 Series, combined with over 300 bespoke ceiling panels from its 7000 Series, are currently being installed throughout the entire tower by BDL Dry Lining.
Specified due to their impressive seamless integration into masonry walls, shaft walls and drywall partitions, the riser doors provide discreet and secure access that won’t impact on the overall interior design scheme of the development, a main consideration for the public and private areas of the hotel.
The 4000 Series’ third-party CERTIFIRE bi-directional certification from Warrington Fire was also a leading factor for specification, as the riser doors are fire tested from both sides to two hours, providing the highest standard of evidence for fire safety performance.
All of the doors were supplied with comprehensive CERTIFIRE accreditation documentation as evidence of Profab Access’ up-to-date fire testing, providing both the specifiers and contractors responsible for the development with absolute confidence in the performance of the critical fire integrity products.
The 4000 Series is the only riser door in the UK to be independently bidirectionally fire tested and certified by an accredited third-party, to ensure legal compliance.
A combination of one- and two-hour fire-rated riser doors were chosen to be installed throughout all residential and communal areas of the building to not only achieve compliance with current regulations by eliminating the spread of fire throughout the building for the specified durations, but sufficiently futureproof the building for years to come.
The bespoke Profab Access 7000 Series Ceiling Access Panels have also been specified for installation throughout the hotel bedrooms and communal areas to provide concealed and maintenance-free access to the ceiling shafts.
Due to the significant size of the ceiling access panels, which span up to 1100 x 1800mm, Profab Access developed a bespoke additional safety system that featured a one-side lift-out and oneside swing/push latch mechanism. The innovative design assisted BDL Dry Lining’s team of engineers in stopping the heavy doors swinging from the ceiling, while also enabling the panel design to work within a reduced space.
BDL Dry Lining is one of the largest specialist dry lining contractors in the UK and has been an installer of Profab Access riser doors and access panels on highprofile commercial and residential projects for a number of years.
Tony Grayson, Project Manager at BDL Dry Lining, said: “This is a standout development to be involved with and we knew from the very beginning that Profab Access would be our go-to supplier for this project.”
NORDIC BRASS SPIRALS
Nordic Brass copper alloy cladding, sunscreens and ceilings help to define a new museum designed by architect firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) in the Swiss Jura mountain region.
AURUBIS
The Musée Atelier for Audemars Piguet houses the watchmaker’s collection of timepieces. Located in the Vallée de Joux, home to the company since 1875, the new building is linked to the original workshop and slotted discretely into the hillside landscape with a grass roof.
The plan form is conceived as a pair of parallel spirals, referencing mainsprings – the beating heart of the complicated mechanical watches that the company is famed for. The spirals are formed of structural glazing, highly-insulated from the outside and creating column-free space to allow visitors extensive views of the landscape and interior. The watch reference also extends to the restrained materiality of the building, as many watch parts are made from brass.
Nordic Brass crown
Externally, a band of Nordic Brass cladding crowns the curved glass facades. Then, a transparent brisesoleil screen extends down over the tops of glazing and clerestory windows, protecting them from the sun. The sunscreen comprises interlaced Nordic Brass ribbons, adding depth and varying transparency from different viewing angles. It was carefully adapted to the changing curvature of the plan, as well as differing height requirements for solar protection around the building.
Internally, perforated panels of Nordic Brass-clad ceilings track the gently sloping terrazzo flooring with brass joints. The ceiling also acts as a cooling medium with the Nordic Brass providing efficient thermal conductivity.
Safety and sustainability
Copper and its alloys enjoy unique characteristics, particularly in terms of safety, sustainability and long-term performance. With an ‘A1 (non-combustible material)’ fire classification to EN 13501-1, copper is inherently fire-safe and suitable for cladding tall buildings, using appropriate constructions. It is also, therefore, rated ‘Class 0’ surface spread of flame, making it suitable for wall and ceiling surfaces. Particularly important today, copper is non-toxic, and its inherent antimicrobial qualities make it ideal for touch surfaces.
The Nordic Copper range of architectural copper products is available from Aurubis, part of the world’s leading integrated copper group and largest copper recycler. It includes Nordic Standard ‘mill finish’ and Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper offering lighter (Nordic Brown Light) or darker shades of brown determined by the thickness of the oxide layer.
Extensive range
The extensive Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise ranges have been developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas all over the world. As well as the solid patina colours, ‘Living’ surfaces are available for each with other intensities of patina flecks revealing some of the dark oxidised background material.
Copper alloys include Nordic Bronze and Nordic Brass, which can also be supplied pre-weathered. The innovative Nordic Royal is an alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, retaining its golden colour. A wide choice of Nordic Decor mechanically applied surface treatments is also available.
TYMAN PLC ANNOUNCES £2.3M PAYBACK TO UK GOVERNMENT TYMAN PLC
Tyman plc, the parent company of Access 360, has announced that it intends to pay back £2.3m received in 2020 under the UK Government’s Job Retention Scheme. The payment will be made in full before year-end. Darren Waters, Divisional CEO for Tyman UK and Ireland, explains the rationale behind this decision: “During the second half, our businesses have benefited from the strong recovery in the residential and commercial markets, and we are in the fortunate position where we are able to return this money. The Job Retention Scheme served its purpose in supporting us to preserve jobs through the uncertainty. Other sectors, including hospitality, leisure and retail, have been hit hard and need further Government support to get through this crisis. For Tyman, paying back the money is the right thing to do.” Access 360 is a division of Tyman plc, comprising Bilco UK, Profab Access and Howe Green. It provides a total manufacturing solution for roof, ceiling, wall and floor access products to the construction industry.
ROCKWOOL SUPPORTS CONTRACTORS IN MANAGING FLAT ROOFS FIRE RISK ROCKWOOL
With roofs maintaining their prominent role in contemporary building design, ROCKWOOL has released a new whitepaper exploring how roofing contractors and specifiers can manage fire risk when planning and installing flat roofs. The ‘Flat Roofs: Managing fire risk in the fifth facade’ report addresses misconceptions around testing protocols and material fire classification ratings, plus examines the rise in roof fires and the resulting social and economic impact. The whitepaper, which is available to download via the website, outlines specification best practice for flat roof insulation and how to future-proof the building envelope in line with expected changes to Building Regulations. Will Wigfield, Product Manager at ROCKWOOL, commented: “This report explores the risks of exposed flat roofs, delves into the effects of prominent fires and then advises roofing contractors and specifiers on selecting materials that will help protect lives and the remaining building structure in case of fire.”
www.access-360.co.uk 01922 490000 info@erahomesecurity.com www.rockwool.co.uk/fifthfacade 01656 862621 customersupportcentre@rockwool.co.uk
KALWALL SHEDS LIGHT ON RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
A £4m extension to the globally-recognised Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) at the University of Strathclyde has used Kalwall to solve an interesting problem. The centre houses Europe’s largest forge – to be precise an 8.5m-high, 300-tonne hydraulic press forge – along with the associated isothermal, cooling, furnace and manipulator plant.
STRUCTURA
Kalwall was used on the original structure. The addition of the new extension has seen a Kalwall clerestory surround added to bathe the interior with diffused daylight. A clever system of removable 6 x 5m Kalwall rooflights has been installed allowing for the craning out of the plant machinery to service and maintain when needed. The rooflights not only allow for this vital function but, similar to the clerestory, cast daylight deep into the building below.
For projects like this, the use of Kalwall means that natural diffused daylight is transmitted deep into the interior space. This means there is an even balance of light throughout with no hotspots, glare or shadows, therefore, removing the need for any blinds or shutters. Its properties also mean there are fewer issues around solar gain, as the unique composition reduces inward radiation and conduction five times more effectively than glazing. At the same time, Kalwall provides line-of-sight protection and additional thermal insulation, thereby further reducing the reliance on HVAC systems and artificial lighting.
The durability and low maintenance of Kalwall is also a factor in installations such as these. Tested to ASTM E661, Kalwall rooflights can be walked upon, and every panel exceeds the safety requirements of OSHA 1910.23 without the additional need for external screens or fixed standard railings.
PAVING FOR CHANGE
With COVID-19, outdoor space has taken on a new importance, recognised by Government initiatives for the public realm. But with the future uncertain, a fresh approach is needed to all the spaces between buildings, providing multifunctionality and the ability to meet changing requirements, as well as ‘places for people’ – as the trade association Interpave explains.
INTERPAVE
Combining established techniques and new innovations, modular concrete paving systems are ideally placed to meet these challenges, whether on new or retrofitted schemes – demonstrated in various case studies available via www. paving.org.uk. Adopting the principles of ‘modern methods of construction’, factoryproduced modular concrete paving delivers fast, low-cost installation, with limited intervention for retrofits. Importantly in these uncertain times, layouts can easily be altered and modular concrete paving taken up and re-used to meet changing demands.
Modular paving
These principles generally apply to all precast concrete block, flag and kerb products. They are fully engineered and manufactured under sustainable, controlled conditions – consistently providing accurate sizes, colours and textures, as well as slip/ skid resistance and other performance characteristics. The distinct, modular units and design variations in colour, texture and shape can break up areas giving visual interest and a human scale not possible with monotonous, formless materials.
So, modular concrete paving delivers a unique combination of predictability, safety and accessibility for all, with scope for endless variety in shape, scale, colour and texture to enrich the urban environment. It offers urban designers the freedom to create real ‘places for people’ that are both multifunctional and adaptable to change.
Sustainable drainage
Also, concrete block permeable paving is uniquely placed as an essential, multifunctional sustainable drainage (SuDS) technique. In addition to paving, it provides an inherent drainage system that requires no additional land take for water storage, treatment or conveyance. This technology eliminates pipework, gulleys and manholes, and generally costs less than conventional drainage and paving.
But equally important to flooding is the long- and short-term damage caused by pollutants in surface water runoff to the biodiversity and health of our rivers and streams. Permeable paving can provide a completely level, well-drained, firm and slip-resistance surface accessible to all, without the need for cross-falls, channels, gulleys or other interruptions. Rainwater ‘ponding’ is eliminated, reducing the risk of ice forming on the surface and preventing splashing from standing water.
And, it also allows water to reach tree and shrub roots, despite providing a hard surface above. In fact, the Code of Practice for accessibility in the external environment,
BS 8300-1:2018, calls for permeable paving instead of tree grilles. And it can also help reduce urban heat island effects, with the evaporation of rainwater within the paving. This is in addition to the high albedo – or heat reflectance – offered by modular concrete paving.
Retrofit permeable paving
Bringing these issues together, an awardwinning, exemplary SuDS scheme near Australia Road, London, demonstrates the multifunctional benefits of retrofitting permeable paving in place of conventional surfaces. Its design, by Robert Bray Associates, introduces the concept of concrete block permeable paving as a thin overlay to existing streets, removing rainwater straight from the surface without gulleys and providing some water attenuation and treatment before discharging to adjacent, well-planted SuDS basins. This innovative concept opens up wider possibilities for all hard surfaces.
Modular concrete paving offers designers the potential to create safe, attractive and comfortable urban spaces for the post-pandemic environment, with maximum flexibility to meet future challenges and minimal interventions with retrofit, whilst reducing flooding, pollution and urban heating.
TG ESCAPES’ ECO-BUILDINGS TO INSPIRE
TG Escapes’ unique eco-buildings combine innovative design with the natural beauty of wood and glass. The brand uses traditional materials with sophisticated technology to create a standalone space with a difference. Our personal and complete service allows us to create the perfect building to suit clients’ individual needs, and we can adapt our design to fit most locations, says TG Escapes’ Mark Brown.
TG ESCAPES
This means that we can reduce the build’s impact on your local area by:
Materials
The materials we use in construction are integral to our eco-friendly credentials. We build with timber frame, and sectional wooden insulated panels constructed offsite.
Foundations
Our foundations have been designed to reduce impact on the environment by using a minimal amount of concrete in our unique pad-based system or, when more appropriate, screw pile.
Roofs
A sedum roof is not only aesthetically-pleasing all year round, but also provides a habitat for a rich variety of wildlife. A sedum roof significantly reduces rainwater runoff whilst lowering energy consumption.
Timber
Our timber comes from sustainable forests (FSC and PEFC). These forests are meeting the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations. This is a process that is ensured by practising an environmentallyaware land stewardship ethic. Our use of timber reduces the embodied carbon for any project and acts as a carbon store.
Renewable energy
We can incorporate solar power into our builds as a clean renewable source of energy.
Insulation
The glass wool insulation used in our buildings is manufactured from a combination of silica sand and up to 80% recycled post-consumer glass that would otherwise be heading to landfill. This makes it one of the most environmentallysustainable insulation products on the market today.
Sun pipes
Sun pipes capture daylight from the rooftop, through highly reflective tubing, and take it to where it’s needed. The pipes offer brilliant natural light as an alternative to artificial lighting, helping to reduce energy consumption.
Our buildings achieve A+ energy ratings with an air test of five or less and the use of:
Ultra-efficient LED lighting calculated for each space to specific levels avoiding overlit areas using photocell detection and timeclock
Ventilation using a mixture of natural ventilation, ultra-energy-efficient ventilation systems and low-carbon fans with integrated controls that monitor both temperature and CO2 for optimum thermal comfort. It operates in three modes depending on the season.
AA-rated Mitsubishi air source heat pumps
Low-carbon usage extract fans in toilets and kitchenettes
Water heating with an air source heat pump-combined tank to reduce carbon emissions. Water controls can be installed on all urinal cisterns and presence sensor taps keeping the overall water usage to a minimum.
With the addition of suitable PV solar panels, our buildings can be classified as ‘carbon-neutral’.
Our buildings are designed to be aesthetically pleasing, ergonomic and highly practical, but just as importantly, they are built to last. We expect our buildings to last 60 years or more with appropriate maintenance.
DRAKA CONNECTIVITY RANGE LAUNCHED IN ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY PACKAGING DRAKA
Domus Ventilation, part of the Polypipe group, has appointed two new members to the ever-growing team. Russell Beardsworth as Specification Sales Manager for the Midlands/ North England and Megan Bennett as Senior Marketing Executive. Russell brings with him over 12 years’ experience in the construction sector, with the last five years being directly Draka, a brand of Prysmian Group – a world leader in power and telecommunications cables and systems – is pleased to launch a new, improved
be delivered in only three to five business days. connectivity range of products for use with its copper Draka Universal Cabling System. The new connectivity products are supplied in plastic-free, environmentallyfriendly packaging. The new Draka Cat5e and Cat6 unshielded copper connectivity range has been completely revised and updated for increased quality and performance, whilst also maintaining its competitive edge in the market. Designed with the installer in mind, the connectivity products come with several new features for quick and simple installation.
draka.mms@prysmiangroup.com DOMUS VENTILATION WELCOMES NEW SALES AND MARKETING PERSONNEL DOMUS VENTILATION
in ventilation. Megan Bennett may be new to the ventilation industry, but her marketing skills are tried and tested. Megan has spent the last 11 years in various marketing roles with Invacare, a leading manufacturer specialising in helping people with reduced function, mobility and disability, culminating in the post of EMEA Marketing Communications Specialist.
CUSTOM COLOUR MIXING WITH OSMO OSMO
Country Colour just got even more exciting. Along with the 19 standard colours Osmo offers, the exterior wood finish is now available in over 2000 custom colours, which are made to order from your local Osmo dealer. No matter what finish you want to give your life – Osmo has the right colours. The best part is you get to choose: soft, warm or bold. The company’s do-it-yourself mixtures make it all really easy to create new colours. Country Colour will bring out the best in wood surfaces in the home and garden. Also, from January 2021, any custom colour ordered from the RAL classic and NCS colour charts can
mms.drakauk.com 0238 029 5555
www.osmouk.com 01296 481220 sales@osmouk.com
METHVEN LAUNCHES NEW SUSTAINABILITY CPD METHVEN
Methven has released a RIBAaccredited CPD seminar that provides architects and designers with a comprehensive insight into environmentally-efficient, yet visually effective, bathroom design. The digital sessions, ‘Water Saving and Sustainability without compromising performance in the Bathroom Environment’, will provide professionals with exclusive guidance on how to achieve considered specification, to help minimise pressure on the UK’s water supply. With each individual across the nation using on average 150 litres of water per day, the requirement for water-efficient showers and taps across both residential and commercial developments is crucial to protecting this vital resource. Exploring how statutory regulations and assessment methods are driving change throughout the industry, the CPD sessions are delivered by Methven’s experienced team of specification managers at a date and time to suit each architectural and design practice. This includes insight into the updated standard for Part G, specifically G2, with Methven’s experts sharing insight into the features of the water efficiency calculator for new dwellings, and the associated products and technologies that should be specified to achieve compliance.
F. BALL ACHIEVES FIRST-CLASS RESULT AT PLYMOUTH COLLEGE OF ART F. BALL AND CO
Highperformance floor preparation products and adhesives from F. Ball and Co. have been used to transform Tavistock Place, the main undergraduate building at Plymouth College of Art, into an inspiring learning space. The refurbishment took place during the summer break, meaning a quick turnaround to upgrade the campus gateway for staff and students was required before the new academic year commenced. Specialist F. Ball products enabled contractors to install safety vinyl sheet and carpet tiles, using Styccobond F49 pressure-sensitive adhesive and Styccobond F41 tackifier, respectively, in the independent art school’s reception, gallery, cafe bar, offices and conference rooms. Once adhesive residues were removed by mechanical means and the subfloor primed, the issues were resolved using Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound to patch fill holes up to 18mm depth. The product was also combined with Stopgap Aggregate to fill deeper spaces created by the removal of internal walls. Finally, a topcoat of the levelling compound applied throughout the entire ground floor produced a perfectly smooth base for the subsequent application of other subfloor preparation products.
SCHÖCK COMBAR IMPROVES SONAR TEST TANK PERFORMANCE
Schöck Combar glass fibre reinforcement is fast becoming the preferred choice over traditional steel rebar for a variety of new projects in unusual and demanding environments.
SCHÖCK
Combar (composite rebar) is a ribbed reinforcing bar made of corrosionresistant glass fibres that are bound by a vinyl ester resin. The high-quality components and the unique manufacturing process result in an outstanding material. One of the latest applications is for a sonar test tank facility for assessing detection apparatus performance. There were two main considerations in the selection process. Primarily, Combar was chosen for its non-magnetic properties, as the product offers no risk of any electromagnetic interference with the test results. Hydroacoustic devices are measured over a range of frequencies and tests are highly diverse, ranging from the acoustic characteristics of a transducer, to the reflective characteristics of acoustic materials.
So electromagnetic sensitivity is a critical issue, and normal steel rebar would interfere with the results due to its magnetic properties – and even stainless steel would also compromise the test results. The secondary issue involved the ability to overcome loading issues within the structure itself. The tensile strength of Schöck Combar is far better than that of reinforcing steel, and there is also the ability to design the product to different shaped bar types. The ‘Z’ bar within the wall structure on this project is a very unusual bar shape and also radiused.
A special two-part manufacturing process
It is the two-part manufacturing process that enables the ribbed GRP bars to meet the reinforcement requirements. First, in the pultrusion process, densely bundled high-strength glass fibres are pulled through a closed chamber and impregnated with a synthetic resin. The parallel alignment of the fibres results in optimum strength of the material. The ribs are then cut into hardened bars and given a final coating. As the vinyl ester resin is diffusion tight and every glass fibre is embedded in resin, the result is durability of up to 100 years in concrete.
Exceptional versatility
Schöck Combar application examples include taking advantage of its easy machinability in tunnel construction, whereby boring machines used in shaft walls of tunnels cannot drill through steel-reinforced walls. With Combar, the machine can cut directly through the head wall. In high-voltage transformers and power plant reactors, inductive currents are generated within the reinforcing steel. The heat will affect the rebar strength if too close to the coils, but Combar remains unaffected. And its corrosion resistance – even from salt – is unrivalled when building bridge, marine and harbour constructions.
STRUCTURA BRINGS SHAKESPEARE’S FIRST THEATRE BACK TO LIFE
Structura UK, the fabricator and installer of glass curtain walling and specialist refinishing expert, has completed an intriguing project at ‘The Box’ on New Inn Broadway, London and it’s a project full of firsts.
STRUCTURA
www.structura-uk.com/kalwall 01233 501504
Construction fastening systems specialist EJOT UK has been highly commended at the prestigious INCA Awards, the renowned annual awards programme for the external wall insulation sector organised by the Insulated Render and Cladding Association (INCA). Nominated in the ‘Component Supplier of the Year’ category by the INCA Secretariat and judged by system designer members, the commendation recognises the technical excellence, innovation and availability of EJOT’s range of fastening solutions for ETICS (external thermal insulation composite systems) – also known as EWI (external wall insulation). These innovative engineered components are used in an estimated 60 to 70% of the EWI systems installed in the UK which play a significant role in enhancing the energy efficiency, internal comfort and visual appeal of residential properties. This latest accolade for EJOT UK comes two years after it picked up the ‘Innovation Award’ for its Iso-family of engineered products designed for attaching external elements to EWI installations, which judges noted for their versatility, as well as for the thermal improvements they offer. T he location is the site of ‘The Theatre’, Shakespeare’s first polygonal purpose-built theatre and precursor to The Globe. It is also the first site where Structura has combined curtain walling with Accoya wood panels.
Combining five floors of exhibition space and offices, the whole front facade has been supplied and installed by Structura. An open-plan ground floor and basement feature an exhibition run in conjunction with the Museum of London, with artefacts celebrating its place in history as the site of the original Shakespeare theatre. Architect firm Gallus Studio has also drawn on many Elizabethan references for this project from Juliet balconies to specifying the timber grid framings.
In order to fully test the innovative use of timber and glass, Structura had to build a rig for CWCT air, wind and impact tests. A series of experiments were then conducted using wind generated from an old Spitfire engine and wrecking ball impact.
Supplying everything from entrance doors, sliding doors and the entire facade, Structura worked closely throughout with main contractor 8Build. This is a stunning example of how architects, contractors and suppliers can come together to help realise a client’s dreams, helping to embrace the future while celebrating the past.
EJOT UK HIGHLY COMMENDED IN 2020 INCA AWARDS EJOT UK
mail@structura.co.uk
KEYLITE ROOF WINDOWS TAKES MARGATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT TO NEW HEIGHTS KEYLITE ROOF WINDOWS
Over 60 Keylite roof windows have been installed to new homes and flats in the Brooke Close housing development in Margate, offering clean and modern aesthetics as well as peace of mind for the building contractor, PCR Projects. Designed by architectural firm Urban Surveying and Design and built by well-respected local contractor PCR Projects, the development required 60 Keylite polar white PVC centre pivot, thermal glazing roof windows to be installed in each of the houses, and two Keylite white-painted centre pivot, thermal glazing roof windows, with smoke ventilation kits in each of the block of flats. Scott Ridgen, Managing Director at Urban Surveying and Design, said: “We are very much a designled practice and so the aesthetics of Keylite roof windows really appealed to us, especially knowing how they would sit on the roof lines and create a point of differentiation for this particular project. The fact that the windows offered great quality at a reasonable price-point was also a great incentive for us.”
