RINNAI CONTINUES TO expand PRODUCTS FOR HEATING AND WATER HEATING IN ALL FUELS – GAS, ELECTRIC and renewables

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COMING SOON

INSTANTANEOUS ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS

IN 21, 24 & 27kW

CLICK HERE

 

 Rinnai’s new range of instantaneous electric water heaters are suited to all commercial and domestic applications that require decarbonising technology capable of delivering domestic hot water needs.

Rinnai’s innovative approach to producing decarbonising technology has resulted in a DHW electric water heater that has been designed to offer direct heating capability. The technologically advanced bare wiring technology rests in the water enabling the system to achieve the pre-set water temperature quickly and accurately. The electric on demand water heaters are lightweight (less than 4kg) and diminutive (450 x 235 x 94). Rinnai is continuing to provide UK customers with an array of products that cover a range of energies.

For a brochure on the Rinnai range of electric

on demand water heaters and low carbon technologies

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A BROCHURE AND RECEIVE A GOODY BAG

 

The KW rating within the Rinnai instantaneous electric water heater range is scalable from 21kw, 24kw and 27kw ensuring suitability for a wide variety of applications. A compact design allows easy installation and is proven to increase energy efficiency and therefore reducing operational costs.  Ease of installation and handling are a major feature.

Rinnai’s instantaneous on demand electric water heater range can maintain an adjustable temperature range from between 20 and 60 degrees Celsius and that can be digitally increased in 0.5 degrees increments. All units can also accept preheated water.

 

 

 

Other features that the Rinnai instantaneous electric water heaters include:

  • overheat protection

  • multi-functionable display

  • full electric control

  • rapid heat up capability

  • quick reaction to sudden shifts in grid capacity output.

  • solar compatible.

All models have LCD screens that provide visual information on current water temperature, operational performance and Eco Mode – which supplies confirmation of the appliance operating economically and therefore reducing unnecessary energy wastage and costs.

Rinnai’s instantaneous electric water heater has a renewable system operation setting that recognises incoming water temperatures more than 30 degrees Celsius, then applies only the correct amount of energy to achieve the required temperature uplift making them an ideal solution to use in conjunction with solar thermal and renewable systems.

The product is timed to coincide with UK plans to reduce electrical costs to be the lowest in Europe by 2035. UK energy strategists believe that clean and sustainable electrification is presently the safest way to ensure lower customer costs and carbon emissions.

Rinnai has anticipated this announcement and has accordingly adapted its product offering of low carbon commercial and domestic products to include technologies that support electrification.

This launch follows an ambitious and innovative programme of launching several new products within its H1 – Hydrogen and DME ready water heaters, H2 – Hybrid systems and H3 – Low-GWP heat pumps product categories. These new products will all ensure the company offers a comprehensive range of appliances and systems for heating and hot water suited to both commercial and residential applications.

The programme commenced with the launch of the new low-GWP air source heat pumps with R290 refrigerant. There will also be a new and innovative range of electric cylinders of multiple sizes. Also there will be the introduction of the KCM and E Series of condensing gas-fired water heaters for light commercial and residential applications.

Later in the first quarter of the year will see the launch of plate heat exchangers for larger commercial and industrial sites.

Rinnai is determined to provide UK customers with cost effective low carbon solutions

towards commercial hot water and building heating provision

CLICK HERE FOR THE INSTANT ELECTRIC WATER HEATER

 

 

 

RINNAI’S H3 DECARBONISATION OFFERS PATHWAYS & CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS

FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/about us/H3

Rinnai’s H3 range of decarbonising products include hydrogen / BioLPG ready technology, hybrid systems, and a wide range of LOW GWP heat pumps and solar thermal. Also, within Rinnai’s H3 range is Infinity hydrogen blend ready and BioLPG ready continuous flow water heaters which are stacked with a multitude of features that ensure long life, robust & durable use, customer satisfaction and product efficiency.

Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of heat pump, solar, hydrogen in any configuration, hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H3 range of products offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions. The range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters.

Rinnai H1 continuous water heaters and boilers offer practical and economic decarbonization delivered through technological innovation in hydrogen and renewable liquid gas ready technology.

Rinnai’s H1 option is centred on hydrogen, as it is anticipated that clean hydrogen fuels will become internationally energy market-relevant in the future; Rinnai water heaters are hydrogen 20% blends ready and include the world’s first 100% hydrogen-ready hot water heating technology.

Rinnai H2 – Decarbonization simplified with renewable gas-ready units, Solar Thermal and Heat Pump Hybrids. Rinnai H2 is designed to introduce a practical and low-cost option which may suit specific sites and enable multiple decarbonisation pathways with the addition of high performance.

Rinnai H3 – Low-GWP heat pump technology made easy – Rinnai heat pumps are available for domestic and commercial usage with an extensive range of 4 – 115kW appliances.

Rinnai’s H3 heat pumps utilise R32 refrigerant and have favourable COP and SCOP.

Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.

Rinnai’s commercial and domestic continuous flow water heaters offer a limitless supply of instantaneous temperature controlled hot water and all units are designed to align with present and future energy sources. Rinnai condensing water heaters accept either existing fuel or hydrogen gas blends. Rinnai units are also suited for off-grid customers who require LPG and BioLPG or DME.

Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours. Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question. Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s. More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

Visit www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

for more information on the RINNAI product range

Or email engineer@rinaiuk.com 

 

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TRILUX Illuminates Award-Winning One Portwall Square with Cutting-Edge Lighting Solutions

 

In the heart of Bristol’s bustling commercial district stands a beacon of innovation and sustainability: One Portwall Square. This groundbreaking office development, adjacent to Temple Meads Station, prioritises occupant wellbeing and environmental responsibility in a post-COVID world. TRILUX, the renowned technical lighting expert, was pivotal in providing a comprehensive lighting solution for this award-winning project.

Design for Wellbeing and Sustainability

One Portwall Square, crafted by construction specialist Skanska and designed by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM), has been recognised with the prestigious 2023 BCO National Award for Best Commercial Workplace. The six-story building embodies human-centric design principles, boasting contemporary architecture and flexible floorplates. Its dedication to natural light, ventilation, and spaciousness creates a sanctuary for its occupants. Sustainability is at the core of the building’s ethos, with certifications including BREEAM Excellent, EPC Rating ‘A’, Wired Score Platinum, and Active Score Platinum.

TRILUX: A One-Stop Lighting Solution

TRILUX’s lighting package perfectly aligned with the project’s vision, focusing on sustainability, wellbeing, and efficiency. From the welcoming ambience of the reception to the task-oriented illumination of office spaces, TRILUX’s contribution was integral. The lighting scheme, featuring E-LINE continuous row systems, Sonnos downlights, and B.VEO track, blends functionality with aesthetics seamlessly.

Picture stepping into an office illuminated to 350 lux, effortlessly adapting to the rhythms of the day. TRILUX’s strategic lighting design maximises natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. With over 54% of the space meeting Daylight Autonomy Standards, the workspace is both sustainable and energy-efficient. Smart lighting with presence detection minimises wastage and adapts to occupancy levels, enhancing efficiency.

Efficiency Enhanced Through Technology

A centralised lighting management and reporting system, coupled with TRILUX UK’s remote access solution, ensures optimal efficiency. Remote monitoring and fault rectification capabilities enable seamless maintenance, contributing to the longevity of the lighting infrastructure.

Eddie Aze, Senior Electrical Engineer at SRW, Skanska UK, stated,

“TRILUX was a great choice for the lighting needs of this award-winning office facility. Their range covers every office lighting demand, meeting the modern needs of a post-COVID workplace.”

One Portwall Square is a successful fusion of contemporary design and innovative technology. It celebrates human wellbeing and environmental responsibility, setting a new standard for sustainable office developments.

 

CLICK HERE

 

For further information on TRILUX’s office lighting range

 

 

 

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WHAT IS A CONSERVATION ROOFLIGHT?

 

Paul Trace, director of Stella Rooflight discusses

the unique properties of a genuine conservation rooflight

What is a conservation rooflight?

If you know that you need conservation rooflights for your project, the chances are that you have searched online and found plenty of choice. But what is a conservation rooflight and are they all the same?

To better understand what makes a rooflight a conservation style, it is important to understand the history behind this type of glazing and why the design is so sought after, not just on period properties but also more modern projects.

Without the ingenious concept of a rooflight the vision of transforming unconventional space into a well-lit property would be a daunting task, and in some cases an impossible option. For that reason, the conservation rooflight could be considered a highly influential building feature, which has given the construction industry a solution to introducing natural light into a property.

Although rooflights, or skylights as they are sometimes known as, have been around for centuries they became more prominent during the Victorian era as technology and building aspirations were stretched and roof glazing boomed. One of the most famous Victorian building projects was the Crystal Palace, which in 1851 used glazing on an unprecedented scale to showcase just what could be achieved.

Mass-produced Victorian rooflights for residential use tended to be made from cast iron and the earliest examples would have smaller, lighter panes of glass. This was partially down to limits of glass technology at the time but also because of excise duties, which were imposed on glass by weight in the mid-18th century. These slim, single glazed rooflights with multiple panels of glass were unobtrusive in design and sat flush in the roof. Today it is this minimalist appearance that many people are seeking to achieve in their glazing designs.

As a result of their popularity, there are lots of conservation roof windows on the market, which can make choosing the right one virtually impossible unless one can identify what the differentiations are. An effective way to make this distinction is to look closer at the attributes of a true replica of a Victorian conservation rooflight.

What material is the conservation rooflight manufactured from?

If a conservation rooflight is all frame, then there is little point in having one. Genuine conservation designs should be manufactured with slim, clean lines and a low-profile to match the roofline. A number of skylight companies try to produce conservation rooflights using modern bulky aluminium profiles, which sit proud of the roofline, particularly slate. It is widely accepted that most authentic conservation rooflights are manufactured from steel because it provides great strength while offering a slim profile and excellent glass to frame ratios.

Single or double glazed?

Victorian rooflights would have been single glazed, however, today’s modern building standards are much higher and so single glazing does not meet the minimum requirements for thermal efficiency (Part L). Double glazing is now the most popular option for genuine conservation rooflights because glazing technology is such that a modern double glazed unit can provide a number of benefits while remaining reasonably slender.

Some conservation rooflight suppliers are keen to boast about offering triple glazing in their products, however, while this does offer a slightly improved thermal performance it comes at the expense of appearance. The optimal spacer bar thickness is 16mm so any decent triple glazed unit is going to be almost 50% thicker than a double glazed version. Now with a flush fitting profile being one of the main requirements of a conservation rooflight, the introduction of triple glazing makes that almost impossible on some roof types.

Glazing bars?

It is often a stipulation from the Conservation Officer that a conservation rooflight should have a glazing bar to replicate that original Victorian appearance. It is not always the case but it is definitely worth checking whether you need them before purchasing any conservation rooflight.

If your conservation rooflight does require a glazing bar then it should be a genuine one. This is an area that separates those producing close replicas to the original Victorian rooflights and those who are trying to pass off modern skylights as something more traditional. A genuine glazing bar should be something which not only divides the glazing but also provides additional strength to the casement.

Top hung or centre pivot?

Once again, if you are looking for a close replica of a Victorian rooflight then a top hung profile will be the one you should opt for. Not only does a top hung design offer a more authentic appearance, it maximises the space below because the casement doesn’t stick into the room. Smaller top hung rooflights also utilise beautiful brass ironmongery to operate the casement whereas centre pivot designs tend to rely on modern plastic handles, which are out of reach and offer nothing to enhance the internal aesthetics.

Is any old conservation rooflight suitable for my project?

Just because something is sold as a conservation rooflight, that doesn’t automatically make it suitable for all building types. If your building is Listed or in a Conservation Area then the criteria for using conservation rooflights are much stricter and you should always gain approval, not only for their use but also the manufacturer that you would want to use.

There are only a handful of companies that specifically make conservation rooflights and even fewer who design, manufacture and assemble in the UK. Many conservation rooflights available online are simply other products which have been spruced up to look like they meet the requirements of that type of product. If you ask a supplier what the main difference is between their conservation rooflight and those used on modern buildings and the answer is a stuck on glazing bar, then you should avoid at all costs. Likewise, there are many elements which go into a genuine conservation design and price is always a reflection on quality.

Is there anything else I should consider when choosing my conservation rooflight?

With the UK Government pursuing a carbon neutral environment it is imperative that every action is taken to reduce energy consumption. Rooflights are energy efficient as they let in large amounts of natural light thus reducing the need for artificial lighting. Bringing natural daylight into your home is about much more than creating a bright, welcoming environment, it’s about protecting your health and wellbeing and achieving a more positive way of life.

One way to ensure that you maximise the amount of available light is to increase the size of your rooflights… or is it? Just because you have a large rooflight this does not always guarantee lots of light and you should always check what the finished viewable (often referred to as clear viewable) area of the rooflight will be. You might think that a conservation rooflight with a whole frame size of 900mm (w) x 1200mm (h) would have a similar clear viewable area regardless of the manufacturer, but you would be wrong and bulky framed modern types or the flat rooflights posing as pitched conservation styles will let in considerably less light than a genuine steel framed version.

With so many choices available, choosing the right conservation rooflight can be a bit of a minefield but with the right guidance and advice it need not be a stressful experience.

CLICK HERE

For more information download ‘The Ultimate Guide to Conservation Rooflights’

An independent guide to everything you need to know about specifying conservation rooflights – available exclusively from Stella Rooflight

 

 

 

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SMART LIGHTING FOR A UNIQUE SURFING EXPERIENCE AT “RHEINRIFF”

 

“Rheinriff,” recognised as the world’s largest indoor surfing facility, has unveiled its innovative lighting system, marking a significant milestone in creating a truly immersive experience for visitors. Partnering with leading lighting providers Oktalite and TRILUX, Rheinriff has transformed its space into a multifunctional venue where lighting seamlessly adapts to various usage scenarios, thanks to the cutting-edge LiveLink Retail lighting management system.

 

Situated within the historic industrial hall on Düsseldorf’s “Areal Böhler,” Rheinriff spans approximately 6,000 square meters, offering an indoor surf hall, event space, and coworking area. Employing clear strategies in design, the venue focuses on establishing a strong brand, creating an authentic atmosphere, and developing a differentiated, experience-oriented spatial structure. Central to this vision are high-quality, intelligent lighting solutions provided by Oktalite and TRILUX.

 

 

A WELL-THOUGHT-OUT CONCEPT

The lighting design at Rheinriff seamlessly integrates the diverse requirements of functional zones, ensuring a cohesive experience from the central “standing wave” to the reception, catering, and work areas. Utilising cylindrical black track spotlights as a consistent element, the design incorporates both B.VEO SPOTLIGHTS and LENTY TRACK SPOTLIGHTS to meet varying brightness requirements and room heights.

 

 

SIGNATURE LIGHT

A highlight of the surfing hall is the design element inspired by the “RheinRiff” logo, forming an illuminated hexagon above the surfing pool. This centrepiece features SO-TUBE LED luminaires from TRILUX, enhancing the venue’s visual appeal and reinforcing its brand identity.

 

 

FLEXIBLE, EFFICIENT, AND DIGITALLY NETWORKED

The LIVELINK Retail control system is central to the lighting system’s functionality, enabling individual, efficient, and convenient illumination of functional areas. Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth LE Mesh allows seamless integration of several hundred luminaires into a network divided into function-related groups and zones, all operable via tablet or smartphone for intuitive control.

 

 

 

PLEASE CLICK HERE

For further information on any of the featured products

 

OR  HERE

for further information on Human Centric Lighting

 

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Polypipe Building Services achieves international sustainability standard

Kevin Rose, Site Health, Safety and Environmental manager at Polypipe Building Services 

Polypipe Building Services has achieved the BES6001 international sustainability standard for its commercial drainage systems. 

The standard is designed to enable manufactured products to be assessed and certified as being responsibly sourced and comes off the back of the launch of the company’s Terrain PVC pipe which is manufactured with up to 65 per cent recycled materials.

Assessment and certification are carried out by an independent third party and cover three different areas including supply chain management, which are evaluated via a written application and a site visit.

Kevin Rose, Site Health, Safety and Environmental manager at Polypipe Building Services, said:

“We are delighted to achieve this accreditation for our commercial drainage systems. Helping the construction industry to build better is a key part of our strategy as a Genuit Group Company and to ensure up to 65 per cent of recycled materials in our products.

“The achievement of BES6001 follows the release of our Environmental Product Declarations and being awarded the BSI Kitemark for our BIM Level 2 Revit files. Each of these are important in providing our customers with complete product transparency and carbon data they need to meet the government pledge to net zero.”

Responsible sourcing certification provides proof that the manufacturer knows the origin of the materials they’re using to give construction professionals confidence that the products chosen support a more sustainable approach. Once certified, products are listed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) which provides impartial research to the UK government and internationally.

The accreditation supports the commitment by their parent company, the Genuit Group, towards emission reduction targets through the Science Based Targets initiative. The scheme was validated in April and is the first to be made by a building products manufacturer within the UK as part of their ambition to be the low carbon supplier of choice to the industry.

CLICK HERE

For more information about all of the standards and certifications achieved at

Polypipe Building Services commercial drainage systems go to

 

 

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London’s Lafayette Nightclub – now with Sanicubic

A musician- friendly club in the heart of Kings Cross, the Lafayette opened its doors in early 2020 before being swiftly closed due to lockdown. After successfully re-opening in 2021 it has become well-known on the UK music scene hosting hundreds of music shows and performances from household name bands.

When the 600-capacity venue was refurbished, a kitchen was installed in the basement and WCs a floor above, along with a cleaner’s cupboard. All waste water from these areas formerly drained into a bespoke pumping system in the corner of the pot wash area, which then pumped the waste up to ground level and away to the main drain.

A soil inlet that was slightly submerged into the lower section of the chamber was preventing waste water from completely draining into the pit, whilst a 100mm inlet pipe was too close to one of the submersible pumps in the pit preventing it from eliminating all paper waste. This caused clogging, blockages and became a general inconvenience to an otherwise excellent venue.

Surrey-based PumpServ, a national pump solutions maintenance company, was approached to evaluate the issue and suggest a solution. One option was to lower the chamber floor, but this would involve breaking out the concrete oversite. With concerns about the proximity of the Regent Canal and potential ground water ingress, PumpServ offered an alternative solution which would require the existing pumps to be swapped out. After a call to the technical team at Saniflo and a subsequent site inspection, the floor-standing Sanicubic 2 Pro lifting station was recommended for the job.

David Knight, Business Development Manager for PumpServ, was delighted with the simplicity of the solution;

“The Saniflo Sanicubic Pro 2 has taken away the headache of blocked facilities for the Lafayette nightclub. Incoming pipework from the WC and shower in the Green Room and the small kitchen was too low at the point of entry to the pump station. The position of the two submersible pumps was restricting black waste and paper waste flow and these were building up at the point of entry. Occasionally the inflow would surcharge back to the kitchen floor drains causing a flood. With twin pumps – for failsafe operation –the sealed unit simply slotted into the space without any need for civils work and has eliminated the risk of overflow. The 110mm inlets, positioned at 140mm (floor height to centre of inlet), enabled a better fall for the swift discharge of incoming waste.”

The Saniflo commercial range has been designed for practical situations where waste needs to be lifted away safely and efficiently and the installation of this Sanicubic 2 Pro in the Lafayette nightclub illustrates perfectly the use for a Saniflo lifting station.

CLICK HERE FOR THE SANIFLO WEBSITE

 

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Which public sector security solution is right for you?

 

It’s a sad but unavoidable fact – public buildings are highly visible, likely to be full of expensive equipment, and that makes them an obvious target for thieves and vandals.

Fences are one of the most fundamental forms of security we have available to us in modern construction.

There’s little more effective at preventing burglaries than a physical barrier a would-be criminal can’t pass through and finds hard to climb.

But while everyone probably has a very clear picture in their mind when they hear the word ‘fence’, the reality is surprisingly complicated.

There’s an extensive range of different security fencing solutions on the market today, all of which are suited for different situations.

Here’s our guide to some of the options available, and where they excel.

Palisade gates and fencing

For heavy-duty perimeter protection applications, Palisade gates and fencing are an excellent choice – in fact, it’s thought the Romans used wooden versions to secure their army camps.

Usually made of galvanised steel, Palisade fencing is supplied in kit form, with the vertical pales fixed to two rails running horizontally.

The design allows the fence to be erected so that it can follow the contours of the ground, making it ideal for uneven land.

Palisade fencing presents a formidable barrier to thieves and other intruders, especially when installed at heights of up to 3m.

Available in W or D profiles, it’s topped with a spike that offers a clear deterrent to would be thieves, and some incorporate other forms of anti-vandal scaling barrier as a way of further discouraging potential intruders.

Mesh gates and fencing                                                       

Mesh represents another versatile security fencing solution.

Thanks to their welded intersections, mesh gates and fencing are robust and durable, and require little maintenance.

However, they achieve all this without obstructing views – meaning they’re great for areas where you need to retain reasonably good visibility into or even through the fenced area, or where you want a barrier that security cameras can still see through.

However, mesh fencing is also widely used in contexts where safety is a major concern.

‘Safe Top’ mesh fencing features a closed beam section located along the top and bottom edge of the panel with no sharp or raw edges. As such, it’s used extensively in public spaces, schools, sports grounds and playgrounds.

Mesh gates come in single leaves, for pedestrian access, or double leaves, for vehicles and keeping people and vehicles apart.

Controlling access

Another aspect of securing a public sector site is controlling who is allowed in – and that means doors and locks.

Increasing numbers of public buildings are now investing in more high-tech access control systems like keypad locks.

One of the biggest challenges around lockable gates in a public sector environment is the need to keep intruders out of sensitive areas, but allow building occupants to move around the site, and quickly and easily escape in an emergency.

That’s why we’ve seen the development of products that present external users with a sturdy lock, often with combinations, but internal ones with a clearly-labelled push pad to allow for speedy egress.

Get some friendly guidance 

At F.H. Brundle, we’re able to offer an extensive array of fence, gate and lock products suitable for an extensive array of public sector applications.

If you’d like to learn more, don’t hesitate to get in touch TODAY

CALL YOUR LOCAL BRANCH (CLICK HERE FOR THE BRANCH FINDER)

CLICK HERE to VISIT THE WEBSITE

OR CLICK HERE to EMAIL DIRECT

 

 

 

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ACOUSTIC FLOOR BUILD-UP ENSURES STUDENT ACCOMMODATION EXCEEDS DOCUMENT E STANDARDS

 

CMS Danskin Acoustics has worked with acoustic consultants Atelier Crescendo to arrive at a floor build-up which has contributed to achieving acoustic performance significantly exceeding Approved Document E ‘Resistance to the passage of sound’ 2003 standards at new student accommodation for St Catharine’s College in Cambridge.

The accommodation provides two new houses (comprising 23 bedrooms) and improved communal spaces for students to work and socialise at St Catharine’s satellite site on the west of the city centre.  It was opened to students in October.  The project was designed by Cottrell & Vermeulen Architecture, and the main contractor was Conamar Building Services.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the student accommodation has mass timber frames (mostly Cross Laminated Timber), triple-glazed windows and air-source heat pumps.

Internal base floors are cross laminated timber (CLT), which supports the sustainable ethos behind the design.  CLT is increasingly used as it helps in locking away carbon by using it as a long-term construction base and it reduces the use of concrete in floors.  However, because CLT is around one third of the mass of concrete, it presents challenges acoustically.  Its sound reduction index is poorer and its damping properties from impacts are also lower than concrete, therefore it requires an acoustic strategy to limit impact and airborne sound travelling through.

After taking into account the BREEAM® requirements, the criteria to be met for St Catharine’s was that the airborne noise reduction must be over 48dB DnTw and the impact noise must be measured as under 59dB LnTw.

CMS Danskin Acoustics designed and supplied a floor/ceiling build-up using recycled materials to help improve the floor mass and enhance its impact absorbing properties.  The strategy involved double REGUPOL impact isolation layers.  Layers of 3mm REGUPOL sonus eco, 18mm Versapanel® from Euroform and 15mm REGUPOL sonus core were used to isolate impact sound, followed by a 32mm Smartspan, which is finished with a timber floorboard or plywood underlay with vinyl.

CMS Danskin Acoustics also specified and supplied Kinetics IsoGrid hangers, a high performance hanger used for suspending ceilings where the maximum noise reduction performance is required.

Site completion measurements undertaken by Atelier Crescendo indicated airborne noise 51-57 dB DnTw + Ctr, depending on location, and for impact it was 49-52dB LnTw, depending on location, so significantly surpassing Document E standards and significantly exceeding the more demanding project acoustic performance targets that had been set.

 

Paul Absolon, CMS Danskin Acoustics’ technical director, said,

“Working with CLT does present acoustics challenges, but we devised a floor/ceiling specification to counter that, which has achieved acoustic performance that exceeds regulations.”

 

Marc Fuzellier, director of Atelier Crescendo Ltd and Acouwood UK LLP, adds,

“We are very happy about the outcomes of the project, especially in terms of airborne and impact sound insulation performances.

“We worked hard to develop the right wall and floor build-ups, detail how they had to be connected and minimise the sound flanking transmissions. This was particularly the case when CLT elements had to be exposed.

“In the end, high sound insulation performances have been achieved so that more BREEAM® credits could be obtained.”

 

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE CMS DANSKIN WEBSITE

 

 OTHER LINKS

ATELIER CRESCENDO                                   CONAMAR                              COTTRELL & VERMEULEN

 

 

 

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Perfectly prepared with SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus

West Fraser has introduced a new ready-primed version of industry-leading SterlingOSB Zero board which has been created for, site security and hoardings, barriers/screening, temporary public walkways, and the boarding up of damaged buildings, signage, interior screening, shop fitting/retail, displays promotions, building extensions and renovations. In essence, it is a blank canvas for colourful marketing messages.  Everything the specifier needs to know about SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus, is detailed on a new downloadable factsheet.

 

The new panel is available in white and grey and produced in 18mm thick, square-edged sheets measuring 1220mm wide by 2440mm long.  The top face is primed with a high-quality cross-linked epoxy acylate UV cured coating to front, giving a smooth finish and the sides are sealed to reduce water ingress, leaving the sheets ready for decoration or the application of graphics.  The structure is free from knots or voids and, from an environmental perspective, the ‘Zero’ in the name assures specifiers that the product contains no added formaldehyde.

 

SterlingOSB Zero is the first UK manufactured OSB with zero-added formaldehyde to deliver health as well as several other technical benefits, making it superior to softwood plywood as well as particleboard.  The factory-primed, ultra-smooth surface presents a blank canvas for marketing messages and other types of promotional display. Being rugged and weather-resistant, the SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus boards can be used outside for security applications, such as screening or walkways; hospitality, shopfitting, and housebuilding are other key markets.

 

 

SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus is CE-marked and complies with the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) requirements.  The boards are supplied in packs of 50 to cover a total area of approximately 150m².  Right across its range, West Fraser has been making substantial investment in reducing the environmental impact of its production processes including signing new contracts with its energy suppliers to ensure that all its power comes from renewable sources that are covered by REGO (Renewable Energy of Guaranteed Origins) certification.

 

CLICK HERE for a free sample and further information

 

call 01786 812 921

 

or visit The West Fraser Website by CLICKING HERE

 

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Standardised timber vehicle storage solutions and porches revealed

Scotts Timber Engineering (STE) has revealed a set of standardised timber vehicle storage solutions and porches, for architects, designers, and specifiers to implement sustainable timber into their designs and improve aesthetics.

 

Easi-Fit, the latest range by STE, provides aspirational solutions for designers and architects that utilise natural materials to offer a sustainable alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar-based garages and porches.

 

James Scott, Managing Director of the Scotts Group says:

“Architects and designers play an important role in shaping the visual appeal of housing developments, and Easi-Fit empowers them to add something truly special to housing projects.

“By integrating our standardised timber solutions, designers can enhance the overall aesthetics of any project, whether it’s a sleek porch or an elegant vehicle storage solution – Easi-Fit delivers both form and function with PEFC-certified engineered timber.”

 

Taking advantage of timber’s suitability for offsite construction, Easi-Fit is delivered on a just-in-time basis to site meaning Easi-fit can also save time and resources during construction.

 

Scott continued:

“As a company, we have recently completed our Carbon Footprint certification to ensure we can maximise the low carbon benefits of timber projects for our customers. For every tonne of timber used in our buildings instead of concrete, another two tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions are saved.

“Easi-Fit comprises prefabricated components made from PEFC-certified engineered timber that is delivered onsite for rapid assembly, minimising on-site construction time, while aligning to the end user’s expectations on sustainability.”

 

Scotts Timber Engineering has secured contracts with Miller Homes to deliver Easi-Fit products with several more contracts in the pipeline. Customers will be provided with on-site training to ensure Easi-fit products can be installed as efficiently as possible.

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