Latest innovations and products in the interiors section of the construction industry.

Rinnai Infinity 1600e offers lowest low-Nox guaranteed

Rinnai, designer and manufacturer of the A-rated Infinity range of Infinity continuous flow condensing gas fired water heaters, supplies the best energy efficient range of low-NoX water heaters on the market.

Advanced condensing heat exchangers combined with innovative down firing pre-mix burner technology ensure every cubic metre of natural gas or LPG is utilised to the maximum in the Infinity HDC 1600e. The units are renewables-ready and suitable for use as a temperature booster for solar thermal and heat-pump installations. The HDC1600e is also future-proofed against future regulatory and legislative changes.

The renewables-ready low-Nox Infinity HDC 1600e external wall mounted boiler along with the interior HDC 1600i version) utilises Rinnai’s patented pre-mix burner technology with a 14-1 turn down ratio – the largest on the market – of 58.4kw-4.05kw and is ultra quiet in operation.

Integral controls on the units are also a major step forward in achieving best efficiencies whether locally or when integrated into a building management system. Legionella proliferation is also significantly reduced too.

Rinnai has also invented additional ‘SMART’ controls for secondary return DHW systems in the form of an advanced temperature control system which allows for safe running of water at 42°C core temperature during the day and 60°C at a time when the building is closed. By the time the building reopens, core temperature is 42°C for safe use.

“The uptake on the whole series of Rinnai’s low-NoX, high efficiency product, across all sectors, has been nothing short of phenomenal,” says Rinnai UK Associate Director Chris Goggin.

Rinnai Infinity HDC range offers condensing technology with up to 107% gross efficiency, ultra-low-Nox of less than 20 ppm, a widely expansive modulation range of 54kW-4kW and high flow rates of 37/ltr/min. Add to these benefits the peace of mind of an extended warranty, a top A-rating exceeding the demands of eco-labelling legislation, the flexibility of external wall mounting and delivery to site with all relevant accessories and the knowledge that the HDC1600e is future-proofed against future regulatory and legislative changes and it is easy to see why the Rinnai brand is fast growing in popularity among H&V professionals.

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com.
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Vortice Twin Fans selected for Axiom Belfast

The prestigious Axiom building situated in Great Victoria Street, Belfast has undergone an upgrade of its washroom and shower areas across five floors and Vortice fans have been chosen for the ventilation installation.

Belfast based Crystal Air undertook the project and Director Mark Mawhinney said: “This is a well specified project where every element has been selected both for its quality and subtle appearance. The new 250 diameter silent twin fans by Vortice were chosen for their excellent performance levels as well as their sleek Italian design.”

The Vort TF acoustic twin cabinet range of fans is IPX2 rated and comes in four different models which can be selected according to the specific fan power required. The range is ideal for the application required in the Axiom building where quiet running, high performance ventilation was needed.

For more information about Vortice ventilation fans visit www.vortice.ltd.uk.
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Titon helps keep the noise down at new Birmingham apartments

75 SFX Sound Attenuator vents from Titon have been installed at the newly constructed Honduras Wharf project in Birmingham. Located in the heart of the city centre, the building comprises 99 residential apartments and penthouses, each with between one to three bedrooms. The project, which was completed in June 2017, was overseen by Leicester-based Unique Window Systems Ltd, while the contractor was J.A. Ball Ltd.

Titon’s SFX Sound Attenuator is a compact slot ventilator which provides high levels of sound attenuation compared to similar ‘acoustic’ products. The vents and accompanying canopies for the Honduras Wharf project were coloured RAL7024 Matt Graphite Grey in line with the décor of the building’s façade and window frames.

Commenting on selecting the vents, Gary Burrows, Project Manager at Unique Window Systems, said “Due to the city centre location, acoustic vents were required in order to adhere to the necessary building and planning regulations. Having used Titon’s products for many years now, we knew the SFX Sound Attenuator was perfect for the application in hand. Not only are these vents easy to fit, they are excellent at minimising noise while maintaining the required levels of background ventilation.”

The SFX Sound Attenuator is part of Titon’s renowned SF Xtra range – and is widely specified throughout the UK. It can be purchased in a number of combinations based on different sizes of inner (ventilator) and outer (canopy). Combinations can be chosen depending on the acoustic requirement and can achieve up to 44 D,n,e,w attenuation when the vent is open.

These vents have also been subjected to independent EA testing (measuring airflow through the product) conducted by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) and acoustic testing by SRL Technical Services Ltd. The EA tests were carried out in accordance with UK Approved Document F (ADF) 2010 and the Scottish Technical Handbook 3.14.6 using the recognised test method to BS:EN 13141-1 clause 4. The independent testing substantiated the claimed performance data of the Titon Trimvent Select, SF Xtra and SFX Sound Attenuator trickle vents.

The SFX Sound Attenuator is a cost effective method of reducing incoming noise in situations where conventional slot ventilators are unable to assist with acoustic issues. It comes fitted with a Titon SFX and/or SF Ventilator Canopy and fits over the standard SF, Trimvent Select or Select Xtra slot size.

For more information about Titon and its range of window and door hardware, as well as its whole house ventilation products, please visit: www.titon.co.uk.
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The next evolution in ceiling tiles – Dune eVo

New Dune eVo ceiling tile range helps architects meet targets around sustainability and acoustics

Architects striving to design more sustainable and attractive modern buildings are being given a helping hand by Armstrong Ceiling Solutions, after the company launched a range of new ceiling tiles, all of which are 100% recyclable. The range has been designed to provide class leading visuals and improved acoustic performance through a new surface which is both brighter and smoother.

Armstrong’s new Dune eVo range is the next evolution in ceiling tiles. It includes a full mix and match ceiling portfolio: Dune eVo, Dune eVo dB and Dune eVo Max, giving architects complete acoustic and design flexibility for every space. Dune eVo is also the first ceiling system in the industry to gain *cradle-to-cradle accreditation.

The Dune eVo range has been designed to enable architects to specify ceiling systems which not only demonstrate high performance in use, but which also offer sustainability benefits through the choice of raw materials used in production. Furthermore, the range includes a full recycling offer, free to the user at the end of the ceiling tile’s life.

Armstrong has designed the Dune eVo range to project a more modern appearance in building projects, with uniform finish, allowing architects to specify ceilings which are not only sustainable but which can enable modern buildings to achieve a premium aesthetic. This is particularly important as architects continue to design environments which positively affect occupant health, well-being, and productivity.

The fifth evolution of Armstrong’s popular Dune tile, first launched in 1984, the Dune eVo range follows the Dune Supreme range and has been developed following feedback from customers. The result is a range of attractive and effective ceiling systems, which can be re-used multiple times, taking both the ownership lifecycle and occupancy well-being to new heights.

Graham Taylor, Sales Director for the UK, Ireland and Southern Africa at Armstrong Ceiling Solutions, commented: “We understand that architects are always looking to build more attractive buildings to create an aesthetic which improves the places where people work, live, and play. Those buildings that achieve this typically attract more investment and enhance the wellbeing of building occupants. This is why we have continued to develop our Dune range, re-engineering the product for more effective installation, and creating ceiling systems, which are truly recyclable and can continuously be re-used.”

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority for modern construction projects, with the UK’s Construction 2025 strategy revealing that architects can enjoy cost savings over a building’s operational life simply by specifying sustainable materials at the design stage. In addition to delivering environmental benefits to architects, Armstrong’s Dune eVo family of ceiling tiles can also contribute to greater occupancy wellbeing, having been engineered with class-leading whiteness and acoustics to create brighter and better surroundings. The eVo range provides a balanced acoustic performance of up to 0.65 aw, Class C sound absorption, and a sound attenuating performance of up to 39 dB. It also has fewer perforations than many standard ceiling tiles to create a uniform, smooth and contemporary finish. Furthermore, Dune eVo has also been designed to have a reinforced fully painted edge, making it more durable and resilient both in storage and application.

Graham Taylor continued: “Our Dune range has been extremely popular amongst architects for the last 33 years so when it came to developing the range even further, we wanted to create products which add value at every stage of a building project, from design and specification, through to build and beyond. The result is fully recyclable and sustainable products for architects, with enhanced acoustics, which are easy to handle and install, and which pass on further benefits post installation, to building occupants. This fits with our mission to positively impact the spaces where people live, work and play.”

The Dune eVo ceiling range was officially launched on June 21, 2017, during an exclusive event at Mercedes World.

To find out more about Armstrong’s new Dune eVo range, please visit the website https://www.armstrongceilings.com/commercial/en-gb/whats-new.html

*Please note, the Dune eVo Db product is not C2C certified

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Johnson & Starley QuanTec condensing boilers now come with new full eight year guarantee

Johnson & Starley’s established range of QuanTec condensing boilers has now been given a free eight year guarantee. This covers all parts and labour for every QuanTec model, adding a further three years of peace of mind for installers and users of this proven domestic boiler range.

QuanTec condensing boilers were recognised in 2016 by a leading consumer magazine as the most reliable boilers on the UK market. Their build quality and energy efficiency applies to a wide choice of combi, system and regular models including the top of the range QuanTec HR 28C (PFGHR). This 28KW combination condensing model offers exceptional efficiency, thanks to the integral Passive Flue Gas Heat Recovery (PFGHR) function. This technology provides potential extra energy savings of up to 26% over a typical water heater and gives very high domestic hot water (DHW) efficiency levels.

QuanTec models also benefit from stainless steel heat exchangers with Cool-Door technology and low NOx levels. The lightweight company design and a variety of flueing options including the Johnson & Starley flexible flue are also factors that appeal to installers and end users in the social housing and private residential markets.

For more information please email marketing@johnsonandstarley.co.uk or visit www.johnsonandstarley.co.uk.
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Armstrong Ceiling Solutions launches SonoPerf D® – a unique embossed metal tile

A specially-designed “perforated” metal tile combines acoustics with aesthetics.

A unique metal tile has been launched by Armstrong Ceiling Solutions to meet the requirement for acoustics which do not come at the expense of aesthetics.

SonoPerf D® (D for design) combines specially-designed ultra-discreet embossing for optimal acoustics with a monolithic visual.

The latest addition to Armstrong’s impressive portfolio of metal and mesh metal ceiling solutions, it is particularly suitable for use with radiant chilled ceiling systems.

This is due to its 3D fine micro-slotted embossing which allows for a homogenous air flow through the metal panels, improving the performance of a chilled ceiling system while also providing good flow in a deflected air stream.

Suitable for small and large rooms, as well as corridors and as floating ceilings in buildings of all types, SonoPerf D® features up to Class A sound absorption (1.00aw) when used with a 40mm mineral wool acoustic infill and is available in selected Clip-In, Lay-In and Hook-On systems as well as floating canopies.

SonoPerf D® has already proved popular in Switzerland, where for instance 4,500m2 was installed in the mixed-use Toni Areal in Zürich and 2,500m2 in the Canton Hospital in St Gallen, it is now being launched throughout Europe, its unique design making it as suitable for prestigious as well as standard spaces.

Available in square and rectangular panels with a maximum size of 3000mm length and 800mm width and a range of colours, the tile comes with acoustic fleece as standard although additional infills are available if even greater acoustic performance is required. It is manufactured from 30% recycled steel and is available with a 15-year product and 30-year systems guarantee.

More information on SonoPerf D® can be accessed via the Armstrong website www.armstrongceilings.co.uk or on the Armstrong Ceilings app available from both the Apple store as well as the Google Play store, or by clicking on one of the links below with your mobile device www.armstrong.com/CeilingDownloads-Apple or www.armstrong.com/CeilingDownloads-Android.
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Tooling range extended by Pegler Yorkshire

Pegler Yorkshire, the leading UK manufacturer of VSH XPress fittings has expanded its range of tools to meet the demands of the marketplace.

The XPress Press Power Tools range offers a variety of tooling to support press-fit installations from 12mm to 168.3mm and sprinkler systems. In addition, the range includes the popular combined package of AC0203 with 15-35mm jaws in a single case.

Amy Sedgwick, Pegler Yorkshire’s Market Manager for Press Systems, commented “With over half the work carried out by heating engineers and contractors being on ‘live’ sites, press-fit jointing has become the preferred choice because of its safety credentials and ease of installation. With that in mind it was a natural progression to provide our customers with not only the best press-fit fittings on the market but the full range of tools to complete the job too.”

The improved range of press tools provide greater performance whilst being lighter and easier to handle. Incorporating an ‘X’ symbol, visible on the pressed fitting, the range of tools provide an instant visual aid to indicate the joint has been pressed offering continual reassurance. The range includes a number of kitted options enabling complete sets of tools, jaws and slings to be ordered under just one product code.

In addition, the new tooling brochure is designed to showcase all XPress tools and accessories in one easy to use comprehensive guide. It also includes a tool compatibility table to easily identify the best tool for the job requirements and a full installation guide for all sizes from 12mm to 168.3mm.

Further information about Pegler Yorkshire can be found by visiting www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk.
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Rinnai – another ‘Standard set’ – out of hours tech support during the whole of the working day

Rinnai, the UK leader in continuous flow hot water delivery systems and units, has introduced a new service which gives contractors access via telephone or internet to unlimited Technical Support and Management.

The service is available, free of charge, with immediate effect to all installers, premises owners and facilities managers which have Rinnai units or systems on site.

“We are offering customers a minimum of 12 hours per each working day – from 7.00am until 7.00pm – of dedicated Technical advice, support and information,” says Rinnai head of operations Chris Goggin.

“Our units and systems are low maintenance and high performance with the lowest or minimal mal-function rates. But we see our role as ensuring that customers – contractors, consultants, end-users – have that extra peace of mind in terms of Technical Information & Support out of ordinary working hours. Each site is unique in its requirements and installation configuration so we are here ready to help, by telephone or by internet,” he adds.

Rinnai’s range of continuous flow gas fired water heaters includes heavy duty and condensing units which are all engineered and ErP rated to produce the highest efficiencies and lowest running costs of any hot water heating unit.

For example, the Infinity HDC1600i, Rinnai’s premium condensing water heater has been tested to below 20 ppm NOx, producing the lowest emissions on the market, with 97% gross efficiencies.

There is also an established range of award winning condensing heavy duty condensing internal and external water heaters which give an energy performance of 107% net efficiency while the larger HDC1500 internal and external models have 105% net efficiency. Rinnai Infinity condensing units also exceed all the demands of Part L Building Regulations.

Rinnai units can be used as a gas booster to solar thermal or heat pump installations maximizing renewable heat gains. It is the only booster that ensures a hot shower or bath any time of the day or night. The rest of the time the gas fired unit is inactive minimizing energy usage.

For commercial buildings, Rinnai’s development and investment in integral smart controls for its appliances enable smart integration with sophisticated BMS systems allowing multi data monitoring which in turn identifies areas where energy, service and breakdown efficiencies can be improved.

Rinnai also fields a common header flue system to streamline manifolded installations of its award-winning Infinity condensing units.

And another simple but effective idea which safeguards against lime scale build up occurring in Rinnai continuous flow water heaters is a scale control system that continually monitors the appliances for lime scale deposits around the heat exchanger.

Rinnai also offer the Infinity Solo water heater, the first Rinnai product for the UK which combines the advanced technology of its wall mounted water heaters with a stainless steel storage cylinder all in one. And it boasts very low heat loss figures.

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com.
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Altro ideal for £25 million Welsh super school

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Award-winning Altro XpressLay™ safety flooring has been used throughout a £25 million secondary ‘super school’ in North Wales. At 4,500m2, it is the biggest ever Altro XpressLay installation in the North West.

The new Rhyl High School has been funded by Denbighshire Council and the Welsh Government, and built by Willmott Dixon. It accommodates 1,200 students, and also provides a base for 45 students from a nearby community special school. The whole building was constructed to achieve a rating of “excellent” on the BREEAM scale.

As with most new-build school projects, cost and time were major factors in the construction of Rhyl High. Flooring company Linney Cooper — who were appointed by Willmott Dixon to install the flooring throughout the new school — were well aware of this. But even though Altro flooring had not originally been specified, Linney Cooper recommended switching to Altro XpressLay.

Robert Goring, Senior Project Surveyor at Willmott Dixon, said “We have been working with Linney Cooper for many years. Their expert knowledge of flooring led to a recommendation to change our specification to Altro XpressLay, which is a proven cost and time saving product. In addition, the flooring met the stringent criteria for safety, quality and design.”

James Sullivan, Linney Cooper Contracts Manager, said “For the Rhyl High project, Altro XpressLay and its properties presented themselves as a better alternative flooring solution to the one specified, for many reasons. The substrate floor at the new school was a power-floated concrete that would take a great deal of preparation with diamond grinding and laying a dpm. But, crucially, Altro XpressLay can be laid without a dpm, because it can be put down straight onto a damp subfloor or a new concrete floor at up to 97% relative humidity. This means quick and easy installation without having to wait for the substrate to dry.

“In addition, Altro Xpresslay can be laid without adhesive. There is no waiting for it to ‘cure’, we just lay, weld and walk on it the same day. There are no tacky areas, or having to plan installation in stages because of drying times.

“The flooring can be taken up and re-used elsewhere, and if we need to replace areas of damage or wear in the future, we can do so, very easily, with minimal disruption. There are no adhesive odours, either, which is perfect for sites such as schools.”

James continued: “Altro XpressLay is not a short-term solution, it is a proven, groundbreaking flooring that holds as effectively as an Altro safety flooring installed using adhesive, and there are no rucks, no movement at all.” It offers the same guarantees and lifetime slip resistance of other Altro safety flooring. The floor can be removed easily, reused and is 100% recyclable at the end of its life.

In addition to Altro XpressLay, Altro Whiterock™ White walling and Altro Stronghold™ 30 safety flooring were installed in the school kitchen. These products are often specified together as they deliver a proven combination of safety and hygiene in hard working environments.

Altro Whiterock White is the hygienic alternative to tiles that’s impact resistant, grout-free and easy to clean. Its smooth white surface and classic purity make it a timeless choice for any interior.

Altro Stronghold 30 achieves Altro’s highest rating for slip resistance and is designed to minimise risk in wet and greasy conditions for the lifetime of the flooring. As well as helping to keep staff safe from slips, it also helps reduce their fatigue, thanks to its 3mm thickness which provides noise reduction and comfort underfoot.

Linney Cooper installed the Altro Stronghold 30, while MI Contracts fitted the Altro Whiterock White.

For more information please visit www.altro.co.uk.
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Cycle Centre receives washroom makeover

Leading commercial washroom designer and manufacturer, Washroom Washroom, has created an iconic new cycle centre for a central London office.

214 Grays Inn Road comprises 45,500 square feet of mainly car parking space as well as back up accommodation for 200 Grays Inn Road, both of which were acquired by The Great Ropemaker Partnership (GRP) in 2011 and have since undergone a period of extensive refurbishment led by architects IMA.

Washroom Washroom, having installed new washrooms on floors four and six of 200 Grays Inn Road previously, was approached to create the new bespoke cycle centre at number 214, designed to cater for tenants at 200 Grays Inn Road.

The innovative modular cycle centre was designed by IMA and in addition to bicycle parking, it provides separate male and female showers and changing rooms. The digitally printed bicycle x-ray style artwork at the entrance to the centre was an original, specially commissioned, piece of art by renowned artist, Nick Veasey.

Washroom worked closely with interior design and fit-out company Elev8 Interiors Ltd to create the new cycle centre. The company’s Forza lockers, which were manufactured from 12mm solid laminate with aluminum bodies for exceptional strength, were installed and come complete with digital code access locks.

The cycle centre also features Washroom’s highly engineered Marcato toilet and shower cubicles, fitted with high-quality stainless steel locks and coat hooks. Its flush fronted design and rebated finish ensures division panels and doors meet edge to edge for maximum privacy while the waterproof properties of solid grade laminate make it an ideal choice for toilet, shower or changing cubicles.

The bespoke Corian trough vanities, with their seamless, natural, stone-like appearance, provide a luxurious, highly durable finish to complete the look.

Trevor Bowers, director at Washroom Washroom said: “There’s been a huge increase in demand for staff shower and changing areas in recent years and this is something which has fast become a core part of our commercial offering. This project highlights our ability to deliver more than washrooms!”

For more information on the range of services and products offered by Washroom Washroom, please visit www.washroom.co.uk, call 0800 999 8888 or email sales@washroom.co.uk.
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