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| THE A TO Z OF CONNECTORS FOR CONSTRUCTION FROM SIMPSON STRONG TIE | |
| Industry leader, Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced its eagerly awaited new catalogue for 2010 detailing their complete product range of structural connectors and systems.
Considered by many as an industry ‘bible’ for choosing the right connector, the catalogue details full descriptions of each product along with technical information and load capabilities. Including long established products such as timber to timber, masonry hangers and connectors, to bead and mesh and angles brackets, and specialist products for engineered wood and truss manufacturing, the catalogue also introduces another group of innovative new products including the I-Loft system; a new engineering method for loft conversions. • Further information from Simpson Strong Tie, Winchester Road, Cardinal Point, Tamworth B78 3HG. Tel: 01827 255600. E-mail: csanders@strongtie.co.uk Website: www.strongtie.co.uk | |
| A BRIGHTER, TAX-FREE FUTURE FOR SOLAR POWER | |
| Mitsubishi Electric has issued a cautious welcome to the Chancellor’s pre-budget announcement that household sales of excess power from solar panels to the national grid will be tax-free from April this year.
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) modules produced by the company are already eligible for grants of up to 50% towards installation costs under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and the tax free incentive is now expected to help increase demand amongst the residential sector. Mitsubishi Electric PV modules use solar cells to convert sunlight directly into electricity, allowing for reductions in both property running costs and environmental impact. Website: www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/pv | |
| PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE PUTS OVENTROP VALVES INTO TWO NEW WELSH GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS | |
| Two new buildings in Aberystwyth, for the Welsh Assembly Government and its next door neighbour the Ceredigion County Council offices, use Oventrop valves to control heating and cooling.
The main heat source is medium temperature hot water generated by a 1250kW to 1650kW frame size biomass wood-fired boiler. The system also has a 1200 kW gas boiler for emergency backup. Some of the valves for the LPHW distribution are of Oventrop supply. The selection includes bronze and cast iron double regulating valves, isolation valves, strainers, drain cocks and metering stations. Aquastrom T Plus multifunction DHW secondary regulating valves were chosen for the domestic hot water systems in both buildings. • Further information from Stephen Walton, Oventrop UK Ltd, The Loddon Centre, Wade Road, Basingstoke RG24 8FL. Tel: 01256 330441. E-mail: sales@oventrop.co.uk | |
| GREEN CREDENTIALS SIGNAL CHANGE FOR BUILDING SERVICES COMPANY | |
| After 14 years in business, one of the North West’s leading construction services companies has adopted a new brand and corporate identity.
Hirst & Danson Mechanical & Electrical Services, the former Thornton, Lancashire, based building services organisation has built an enviable reputation within the construction industry, but the old company name has now given way to a new corporate brand, Ameon Ltd. The change of identity for the company is a bold move by the board of Ameon. The company’s continued diversification and its growing low carbon credentials have pointed towards a repositioning within the market, as Ameon predicts 100% annual growth in its renewable technologies business alone. • Further information from Mark Court, Commercial Director, Ameon Ltd, Units 9-10, Olympic Court, Boardmans Way, Whitehills Business Park, Blackpool FY4 5GU. Tel: 01253 760160. E-mail: info@ameon.co.uk Website: www.ameon.co.uk | |
| ABB AGREE SUPPLY DEAL WITH NUAIRE | |
| ABB has signed a deal with Nuaire Ltd to supply variable speed drives for its range of fans.
Nuaire manufactures the largest range of ventilation products and air handling units in the UK. This will now be complemented by ABB standard drives and ABB standard drives for HVAC. The ABB variable speed drives (VSDs) will form an integral part of the company’s Ecosmart control range, which links fans, drives and condition sensors into a ventilation system that supplies air to meet the real time demand thus saving money by cutting energy use. The ABB drives also allow Nuaire to customise the drive to the needs of individual customers. • Further information from ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington W4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741111. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk/energy | |
| NEW TECH SPEC IN GEZE’S COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE | |
| The UK’s leading manufacturer of door and window control technology has launched an illustrated technical guide for its comprehensive suite of manual door closers and fittings, as well as window control systems.
Featuring GEZE UK’s extensive range of door closers, window control systems, sliding door fittings, RWA smoke and heat extraction systems, the guide includes technical drawings, application descriptions and finishes so specifiers have all the options at their fingertips. Incorporating all GEZE UK’s latest innovations, as well as updating existing products, the sleek and stylish binder uses loose-leaf information pages, making it simple to update and to incorporate complementary information. • Further information from GEZE UK, Blenheim Way, Fradley Park, Lichfield WS13 8SY. Tel: 01543 443000. E-mail: info.uk@geze.com Website: www.geze.co.uk | |
| PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS PROVIDE INSTANT HOT WATER | |
| Stokvis Energy Systems has developed the Econoplate ‘C’ series of packaged plate heat exchangers to be used in conjunction with condensing boilers.
The latest ‘C’ series incorporate a number of benefits, including low water content, a fully modulating control valve that gives close control on heat output, minimising boiler firing and providing accurate control of HWS temperature and water temperatures that are raised from 10ºC to 60ºC in a split second. The plate heat exchangers are designed to provide hot water instantaneously, without the need for storage, up to their maximum rated output. Where necessary they can be coupled to a buffer vessel for even greater outputs. • Further information from Stokvis Energy Systems, 96R Walton Road, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 0DL Tel: 0208 783 3050. E-mail: info@stokvisboilers.com Website: www.stokvisboilers.com | |
| OFFSITE – REAL, UP CLOSE & IN THE FLESH! | |
| The Mtech Consult and Galliford Try ‘Innovate Offsite’ building at Ecobuild will showcase the very best in Offsite construction, bringing together a selected but broad range of systems, products and techniques to demonstrate that used together well, they really do produce a better building.
The generic building will be constructed in the exhibition hall using real Offsite technologies, with real interfaces, by real workers, in a small space with difficult access and a tight deadline. It won’t try to hide anything, but rather is intended to illustrate the benefits of using Offsite for complex and challenging areas, as well as for standard processes and more straightforward builds. • Further information from Bob Mears, Mtech Consult Ltd, Maple House, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shrewsbury SY2 6LG. Tel: 01743 282282. E-mail: bob.mears@mtech-consult.com Website: www.mtech-consult.com | |
| SPACIOTEMPO WINS PRAISE FOR ADAPTABILITY | |
| Dril-quip Europe Ltd, located in Aberdeen, were looking to extend their facility and looked to Spaciotempo which offers off-the-shelf and bespoke solutions for companies with temporary structure requirements to help establish a design that would work within the restraints of the site.
A crucial element of the design was the provision of a 10m door. Spaciotempo sourced an instant pass door much lighter in weight and practically self supporting thanks to the installation of a steel goal post type sub-frame. Combined with 3 single personnel fire doors, thermo roof and gables and single skin steel cladding to the walls, the structure has exceeded all expectations. • Further information from Spaciotempo UK Ltd. Tel: 01889 569569. Website: www.spaciotempo.co.uk | |
| ABB’S NEW BUSCH PRI-ON COMBINES INTELLIGENCE WITH STYLE | |
| Simple control of a building’s lighting, heating and entertainment functions can now be achieved at the touch of a single button with the launch of ABB’s Busch pri-On intelligent control unit. Using the Busch pri-On, building operators or occupants can control and monitor all room functions from a central point.
Adjustment of room functions can be simply achieved by using the Busch pri-On’s intuitive rotary knob, enabling manipulation of multiple room functions. Another key feature is its energy management function. Users can see precisely how much energy they are using at a given moment via diagrams on the control panel. The Busch pri-On also includes remote control capability. • Further information on ABB’s new Busch Pri-On Tel:02476 368500. E-mail: iv.products@gb.abb.com quoting reference: ‘Busch Pri-On’ | |
| ‘SPRINKLERS – A FIREFIGHTER IN EVERY ROOM 24/7’ | |
| Safe? There have been NO recorded fire deaths in a building fitted with correctly installed and correctly maintained residential sprinklers.
Protection? Sprinklers can save lives, but because they control fires so quickly they also significantly reduce property damage Water Damage? Given any fire situation, only the sprinkler affected by the fire will activate using a controlled quantity of water False activation? Sprinkler discharge due to a manufacturing defect or technical fault is very unlikely. It is estimated at around one in 16 million Cost Effective? Sprinklers cost as little as £125 per room. You can also make considerable savings on conventional fire safety protection measures. • Further information from Domestic Sprinklers Plc. Tel: 01305 765763. Website: www.domesticsprinklers.com | |
| FLORES FROM PURMO – VALUE WITHOUT COMPROMISE ON QUALITY | |
| The Flores towel warmer range represents the best possible value for money in a designer radiator, combined with the quality for which Purmo is renowned. Available in white, chrome and a range of specialist colours, Purmo’s Flores allows homeowners on a budget to add a designer touch to any bathroom or kitchen.
With circular tube cross rails and ‘D’ shaped uprights, Flores is manufactured from high quality materials to exacting standards, using the latest in radiator technology. Designed to allow for plenty of towel hanging space, Flores is as practical as it is beautiful. Flores radiators are available from all good plumbers merchants and bathroom stores. • Further information from Purmo, Rettig Park, Drum Lane, Birtley, Co Durham DH2 1AB. Tel: 0845 070 1090. E-mail: uk@purmo.co.uk Website: www.purmo.co.uk | |
| KENTEC PROTECTS NATIONAL ART TREASURES | |
| The National Portrait Gallery, London, holds the most extensive collection of portraits in the world, which includes work across all media, from painting and sculpture to photography and video.
Kentec Syncro fire control panels were specified for this historic building’s fire detection system upgrade. The system includes a Kentec 8 Loop Syncro Control Panel and Syncro Response repeater panel, with over 700 Apollo Series 90 and XP95 devices supported by Apollo’s open protocol fire data communications. Kentec Fire Contrrol Panels are specified in heritage sites because of their exceptional performance, reliability and ability to operate with a range of mixed Apollo devices without any problems and minimum disruption. • Further information from Kentec Electronics Ltd. Tel: 01322 222121. E-mail: robine@kentec.co.uk Website: www.kentec.co.uk | |
| RAPID RESPONSE TO BRIDGE FLOOD MISERY | |
| Following the flood destruction of the town’s bridges over the River Derwent in Workington, Cumbria last November, Army Royal Engineers have used Tensar International’s TriAx™ geogrid to help construct new bridge abutments for a 40 ton temporary footbridge which connects the north and south of the town.
Tensar’s unique TriAx™ geogrid is a stiff polymer geogrid based on an equilateral triangle structure, which interlocks with the aggregate fill particles to form a stiff, mechanically stabilised layer. By constructing the abutment bank seat supports using TriAx™ geogrid layered with angular aggregate, the need for extensive piling and foundation work was avoided. • Further information from Claire Thirtle, Tensar, Cunningham Court, Shadsworth Business Park, Blackburn BB1 2QX. Tel: 01254 266845. E-mail: cthirtle@tensar.co.uk Website: www.tensar.co.uk | |
| BILCO LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE | |
| Roof hatch, smoke vent and access equipment supplier Bilco UK has updated and relaunched its website www.bilcouk.com to include among other things video of its products in action.
The website also provides links to detailed product specifications, downloads of CAD and other files, and a large number of case studies showing how Bilco products have been used in a wide variety of applications. There is also information on the full range of the company’s standard products and of its design and manufacturing service which provides purpose-designed equipment to meet individual requirements. Bilco is ISO 9001:2008 and 14001 accredited and all its products come with a minimum 10-year warranty. • Further information from James Fisher, Bilco UK, Park Farm Business Centre, Bury St Edmunds IP28 6TS. Tel: 01284 701696. E-mail: jamesf@bilco.com Website: www.bilcouk.com | |
| ECONIC – IN THE LOOP ON MAJOR HEAT PUMP PROJECT | |
| Econic, the leading specialist heat pump contractor has recently completed work on a major renewable energy project at SEGRO’s Winnersh Triangle Phase 1 office development in Reading.
Econic were brought in to manage the installation of the well equipment and heat exchangers. A total of four wells have been sunk at the site, two for the abstraction of water and two for the re-injection of the water after it has been used. Each pair of wells is connected to a large plate heat exchanger that forms part of the cooling system of the buildings. Each heat exchanger can provide up to 500kW of cooling for the offices. • Further information from Econic Ltd, 1 Home Farm Business Park, Norwich Road, Marsham, Norwich NR10 5PQ. Tel: 01603 277040. E-mail: enquiries@econicres.com Website: www.econicres.com | |
| VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES PROMOTE A REVOLUTION IN WIND POWER | |
| ABB has helped wind power generation experts quietrevolution ltd to develop an innovative wind turbine that promises to capture wind power in areas never before exploited.
Interest has already been shown in the company’s QR5, a vertical axis wind turbine designed to operate in urban areas, where wind speeds are lower and wind directions change frequently. Its helical design ensures it is robust and able to deal with even turbulent winds, and eliminates virtually all noise and vibration. At five metres high and three metres in diameter, the turbine is compact and easy to integrate and, with just one moving part, maintenance can be limited to an annual inspection. • Further information from ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741111. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk/energy | |
| EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE CHOSEN FOR NEW TYNE TUNNEL | |
| Engineers on the New Tyne Tunnel Crossing have specified Cellcore from Cordek to address the issue of ground uplift caused by deep excavation on the access road leading to the tunnel.
Cellcore from Cordek is a honeycomb of interlocking expanded polystyrene sections, which are designed to collapse at a pre-determined load. As Cellcore uses EPS, it absorbs expansion, unlike some other anti-heave products that rely on material degradation, which means the system is immediately effective. In addition to its physical properties, expanded polystyrene is easy to handle and compatible with rapid construction techniques, which is a major benefit for contractors. Expanded polystyrene is HCFC-free and non-toxic. • Further information from Jablite. Tel: 0870 444 8769 or from Cordek Ltd Tel: 01403 799600. E-mail: technical@jablite.co.uk E-mail: info@cordek.com Website: www.jablite.co.uk - http://www.cordek.com | |
| SIEGENIA-AUBI TO MAKE THE CASE FOR VENTILATION AT ECOBUILD | |
| The firm will make the case for mechanical ventilation in the race to meet tough thermal standards, as well as promoting its collection of high performance aluminium window and door hardware on stand CAB04.
National sales manager Alastair Wheeler is looking forward to discussing the complete SIEGENIA-AUBI aluminium and ventilation product range, which he says offers building designers scope for creativity as well as flexibility in production and longevity once installed. From Ecobuild, the SIEGENIA-AUBI team will be heading to Germany to showcase its aluminium, PVC and timber hardware and revolutionary ventilation systems at the annual Fensterbau show in Nuremberg from 24-27 March. • Further information from Heike Roschkowski, SIEGENIA-AUBI Ltd, Richardson Way, Cross Point, Coventry CV2 2TA. Tel: 024 7662 2000. Fax: 024 7662 2364. E-mail: info-uk@siegenia-aubi.com Website: www.siegenia-aubi.com | |
| ‘CAB ALUMINIUM PAVILION SUPPORTS ECOBUILD’ | |
| Ecobuild 2010 features a CAB Aluminium Pavilion for the first time. Ecobuild 2010 at Earl’s Court in London (2-4 March) is expected to be bigger than 2009 with 850 exhibitors and 100 free conferences.
The 123 square metre CAB Aluminium Pavilion in Earl’s Court 2 (stand number 2530) is supported by 6 member company stands which surround a central CAB information area which acts as a drop in centre for visitors and members alike. The Trade Association has successfully developed the pavilion/village style concept over a number of years and trade shows with constant themes being to highlight the availability and benefits of aluminium related products and services. • Further information from Julie Harley, Council for Aluminium in Building, Bank House, Bond’s Mill, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 3RF. Tel: 01453 828851. Fax: 01453 828861. Website: www.c-a-b.org.uk | |
| MEDICAL HEALTH CENTRE CONVERSION FAST TRACKED WITH OVENTROP VALVES | |
| Oventrop valves have been selected for a refurbishment project in Tunbridge Wells, Kent to convert an existing insurance company’s offices into a medical health centre for Assura.
The existing heating system was ripped out, and a new one designed to meet the demands of varied occupancies was installed. Hot water is generated by a gas boiler in a new rooftop plant room and circulated throughout the core areas via the new main distribution system. Radiators fitted with Oventrop AV6/Combi 4 TRV/lockshield combinations serve the core areas and the radiator circuits are equipped with Hydromat differential pressure valves which reduce commissioning times and ensure an improved system dynamic balance. • Further information from Stephen Walton, Oventrop UK Ltd, Oventrop House, Hatch Industrial Park, Greywell Road, Hatch, Basingstoke RG24 7NG. Tel: 01256 330441. E-mail: sales@oventrop.co.uk | |
| THE NEW POCKET GUIDE TO DISTRICT HEATING | |
| A new publication from heat transfer specialists, Alfa Laval, sets out to de-mystify the topic of District Heating (DH) by explaining the terminology, examining the history and setting out the prospects for its increased use in the UK.
Running to a compact 26 pages, the Guide spells out salient facts regarding UK energy usage and emissions against a background of dwindling fuel availability, rocketing energy prices and increasingly stringent legislation to curb carbon emissions. Copies of the Pocket Guide, the Alfa Laval Guide to District Heating, are available to qualified applicants from general.uk@alfalaval.com or can be downloaded from www.alfalaval.co.uk • Further information from Peter Rose, Alfa Laval Ltd, 7 Doman Road, Camberley GU15 3DN. Tel: 01276 413632. Fax: 01276 413524 E-mail: general.uk@alfalaval.com Website: www.alfalaval.com | |
| NEW STATUS FOR GEZE | |
| The UK’s leading manufacturer of door and window control systems, GEZE UK, has received top level accreditation for its high standards in business practice, ranging from commercial and customer service, to health and safety, quality management and corporate social responsibility.
The company has become the first in its sector to be awarded Elite Vendor status by Altius Vendor Assessment, one of the country’s leading independent specialists in assessment processes. Elite Vendor status is the highest accolade a company can achieve through the Altius assessment process and GEZE is only one of twenty Altius clients that have received this level of accreditation. • Further information from GEZE UK, Blenheim Way, Fradley Park, Lichfield WS13 8SY. Tel: 01543 443000. E-mail: info.uk@geze.com Website: www.geze.co.uk | |
| STOP GAS AND DAMP IN ONE | |
| A solution to the issue of addressing potentially harmful ground gases and damp from penetrating new developments has been developed by Z-Led Ltd.
The company’s new Protect GDB10 Gas and Damp Barrier not only stops any methane, carbon dioxide and radon from entering the building, but simultaneously provides a damp-proof membrane. The multi-layer reinforced polyethylene/polypropylene membrane with integral continuous aluminium foil is supplied with full fixing instructions. Tough and durable, Z-Led Protect GDB10 provides excellent tensile strength and enhanced puncture and tear resistance, yet it is easy to cut and, at only 17.5kg/roll, lightweight to handle. Each roll is 40m long and 2.5m wide. • Further information from M Jackson, Z-Led Ltd, 2 Brooklands Road, Sale M33 3SS. Tel: 0161 905 5700. E-mail: info@z-led.com Website: www.z-led.com | |
| CROWCON EXPANDS CAPABILITIES OF ITS T3 PORTABLE MULTI-GAS DETECTOR | |
| Gas detection specialist Crowcon has expanded the capabilities of its highly successful Tetra:3 (T3) personal multi-gas detector with three more toxic gas sensors. The new sensors widen the applications for the T3 to include the chemical, pharmaceutical, food and beverage processing industries, as well as water and wastewater treatment facilities.
Featuring a top-mount display and the capacity to detect up to four gases at once, the T3 is designed for use in the most demanding industrial environments, including confined space work. It features intuitive, single button operation, essential for users with gloved hands. A lithium-ion battery provides over 18 hours continuous operation from a single charge. • Further information from Crowcon Detection Instruments, 2 Blacklands Way, Abingdon Business Park, Abingdon OX14 1DY. Tel: 01235 557700. Fax: 01235 557718. E-mail: sales@crowcon.com Website: www.crowcon.com | |
| FLÄKT WOODS LAUNCHES EDUCATIONAL BROCHURE | |
| To emphasise Fläkt Woods’ commitment to the Government’s Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, the Company has launched a bespoke brochure detailing its exclusive range of products for the education sector.
It has the most comprehensive choice of products for the convenient and efficient placement of air, from chilled beams through to air handling and heat recovery units, air displacement products and ducting, to chillers, fans and integrated control packages. Because individual learning and support environments vary in occupancy and in function, one single HVAC solution is unlikely. Therefore, thanks to the new brochure, building engineers will easily be able to see all the products available. • Further information from James Griffiths, Fläkt Woods. Tel: 01206 222500. E-mail: james.griffiths@flaktwoods.com Website: www.flaktwoods.co.uk | |
| NEW LINEAR LIGHTING FROM PAVIOM | |
| Exterior lighting company Paviom has launched a versatile new range of Linear in-ground and surface mounted luminaries.
The Limbus fluorescent luminaries have been developed specifically for wall washing and illuminating low level signage. Providing symmetrical or asymmetrical distributions of light, allows specifiers to create up-lighting effects from a linear in-ground source. LED versions provide glare free illumination to provide dramatic effects or route guidance. Available in three lengths, has been designed using toughened safety glass. The Lentus luminaries offer further versatility. Developed for both indoor and outdoor, ground or wall mounted applications, they allow specifiers to achieve a uniform lighting scheme from the exterior to interior space. • Further information from Paviom. Tel: 01293 804688. Website: www.paviom.com | |
| GRADE II ENGINE HOUSE RESTORED | |
| Using Helifix masonry repair products, a Grade II listed engine house, built in 1886 at the former sewage works in the London Borough of Haringey, has been made structurally secure and turned into the working Beam Engine Museum. Before the bricked-up windows could be reinstated the arch lintels were secured with grouted CemTies while over 300m of stainless steel Helibars were bonded into various mortar beds to secure and reinforce the masonry, stitch cracks and redistribute the structural loads to restore full structural integrity.
Helifix systems can be rapidly installed, thereby avoiding any delays on site, and are fully concealed, so did not alter the visible appearance. • Further information from Helifix Ltd, 21 Warple Way, London W3 0RX. Tel: 0208 735 5200. E-mail: info@helifix.co.uk Website: www.helifix.co.uk | |
| LATEST GEZE CLOSER TICKS ALL THE BOXES | |
| A unique new free swing door closer from GEZE UK, tackles the challenge of accessibility, fire safety, personal safety, building regulation compliance, aesthetics and durability and ticks all the right boxes.
The Boxer EFS is a fully concealed unit with an electro free swing mechanism, which ensures easy access by enabling users to open and close the door without the resistance of the closer. Tackling the issue of personal safety, for areas where anti-ligature is priority, the cam action door closer is integrated into the top of the door and the guide rail fitted discreetly into the frame, ensuring the unit is completely concealed when the door is closed. • Further information from GEZE UK, Blenheim Way, Fradley Park, Lichfield WS13 8SY. Tel: 01543 443000. E-mail: info.uk@geze.com Website: www.geze.co.uk | |
| STONE CANAL BRIDGE FULLY RESTORED AND STRENGTHENED | |
| Bridge rehabilitation and strengthening specialist, Goldhawk Restorations Ltd, has recently completed work on the Brownhill Bridge for Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council which has enabled the bridge to be fully opened to two way traffic without restrictions.
Following analysis of the bridge by Goldhawk, using its ASSARC masonry arch assessment program, a repair scheme was devised involving bonding stainless steel helical reinforcing bars into longitudinal radial and transverse rebates cut into the underside of the arch. Reinforcement is also provided by installing helical ties at right angles to the bars, at the grid intersections, which are hooked around the main bars to mechanically anchor the system to the barrel. • Further information from Goldhawk Restorations Ltd, 21 Warple Way, London W3 0RX. Tel: 0208 735 5214. E-mail: info@goldhawk.uk.com Website: www.goldhawk.uk.com | |
| ALL CHANGE FOR SHEPHERD’S BUSH STATION WITH PILKINGTON PLANAR™ | |
| Window shoppers on the way to Westfield White City are now welcomed to London’s largest shopping centre by a stunning new façade at the Shepherd’s Bush Underground station. The refurbishment uses 500m2 of Pilkington Planar™ in a breath-taking project.
The redevelopment of the 108 year old Shepherd’s Bush Underground station saw the ticket hall entirely demolished and rebuilt with toughened 12mm Pilkington Optifloat™ in a Pilkington Planar™ structural glazing system. The imposing façade uses glass and stainless steel to create a bright and fresh foyer that wraps around three elevations. Pilkington Planar™ incorporating Pilkington Optifloat™ allows more light to enter, and creates a greater feeling of space. • Further information from Pilkington Building Products - UK, Ref: 0234, Unit 1A, Wirral Business Park, Arrowe Brook Road, Upton, Merseyside, CH49 1QZ. Tel: 01744 692000. Fax: 01744 692880. E-mail: Pilkington@respond.uk.com Website: www.pilkington.co.uk | |
| VICTAULIC LAUNCHES IMPROVED FireLockEZ® STYLE 009H RIGID COUPLING AT FIREX SOUTH | |
| Firex South sees the launch of the redesigned Victaulic FireLockEZ® Style 009H Rigid Coupling for fire protection piping systems. The improved design allows the coupling to be installed without the use of an impact wrench, offering the benefits of quick, easy, efficient connections to those equipped with standard hand tools.
The new coupling utilises the Victaulic unique installation-ready design. It fits directly onto the pipework with no need to disassemble, lubricate and re-assemble the coupling, and torque breakings for bolts are not required. The improved design allows for faster, more consistent installations, with or without power tools, for a right-first-time solution that avoids rework. • Further information from Victaulic, Units B1 & B2 SG1 Industrial Park, Cockerell Close, Gunnells Wood Road, Stevenage SG1 2NB. Tel: 01438 310690. Website: www.victaulic.com | |
| IT’S ‘CROESO I CYMRU’ FOR LANES | |
| Lanes for Drains has opened its first depot in Wales, bringing the tally to 21 depots nationwide for the UK’s largest independent drainage specialist.
The new branch, which opened in December 2009, is at Pontyclun near Cardiff. The depot is equipped with all the advanced plant and technology from Lanes, and offers the full breadth of Lanes’ services: sewer rehabilitation projects, emergency call-outs, CCTV surveys, Planned management programmes and waste management. Lanes clients in North Wales will continue to be looked after by the Chester depot. With a starting team of ten staff and operatives, and more recruitment planned, things are looking good for Lanes’ South Wales Depot! • Further information from Michelle Ringland, Lanes For Drains, 17 Parkside Lane, Parkside Industrial Estate, Leeds LS11 5TD. Tel: 0161 788 2266. E-mail: sales@lanesfordrains.co.uk Website: www.lanesfordrains.co.uk | |
| INDEPENDENT METER TESTING SERVICE LAUNCHED BY MWA | |
| MWA Technology Limited, has launched a meter testing service for any brand of rotary or turbine meter with flow rate capacities from one cubic metre per hour to 650 cubic metres per hour.
MWA has invested in a new sophisticated test rig and installed it at its Birmingham headquarters to enable the company to offer customers the service. The test rig determines whether meters currently in service should be serviced or replaced. The MWA test rig features three reference meters, a rotary meter and two turbine meters. The rig is able to test flow rates to an accuracy of + or – two percent. • Further information from Martin Wardell, MWA Technology Ltd. Tel: 0121 327 7771. E-mail: info@mwatechnology.com Website: www.mwatechnology.com | |
| OVENTROP CONTROLS HEATING AT FALMER FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON | |
| Based on past experience with Oventrop valves at the University of Brighton, the company’s equipment was chosen to control the heating facilities at their new Checkland Building on the Falmer Campus.
The heating system, with 277 radiators, incorporates a thermal CHP engine and three gas-fired condensing boilers. The CHP engine acts as lead boiler supplying its waste heat to an LTHW circuit with thermal storage vessels. Included in the extensive range of Oventrop valves used in the plant room and around the systems are Hydromat differential pressure regulating valves which are employed to control the pressure across the radiator TRVS and provide an improved system dynamic balance. • Further information from Stephen Walton, Oventrop UK Ltd, Oventrop House, Hatch Industrial Park, Greywell Road, Hatch, Basingstoke RG24 7NG. Tel: 01256 330441. E-mail: sales@oventrop.co.uk | |
| NEW ROUTER CONNECTS HVAC DRIVES TO IP NETWORK | |
| Drives can be easily connected to a HVAC system with BACnet, using a new IP router from ABB. The RBIP-01 router eliminates the need for gateways and is compatible with all ABB HVAC drives, including older product generations.
The RBIP-01 router transfers data between the IP network and MS/TP (RS-485), a network standard used by many devices in HVAC installations, such as drives. To configure the RBIP-01 router, the user needs to set the IP address. No tools or cables are needed, apart from an Ethernet cable that connects to a PC. The configuration window opens in an ordinary web browser, eliminating the need for special software. • Further information from ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741111. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk/energy | |
| STORMSAVER IS CLEAR FAVOURITE FOR THE INJURED JOCKEYS FUND | |
| Stormsaver has signed an agreement with The Injured Jockeys Fund for its new rehabilitation and residential centre.
Oaksey House in Lambourn provides 12 residential units, physiotherapy treatment rooms and leisure facilities for injured jockeys, residents and the local racing workforce. Stormsaver designed and delivered the system, which features a 10,000 litre underground storage tank to collect rainwater from the centre’s roof. The reuse of rainwater will reduce the centre’s impact on the environment, as well as ensuring that it remains cost efficient. Oaksey House features other eco-saving initiatives including sustainability sourced timber, automatic daylight dimming lighting and uses recycled materials such as glass pellets and waste plastics. • Further information from Stormsaver, Offices 7-8, Roewood Courtyard, Winkburn, Newark NG22 8PG. Tel: 0844 884 0015. E-mail: enquiries@stormsaver.com Website: www.stormsaver.com | |
| SIMPSON’S REVOLUTIONARY CONNECTOR GAINS LABC APPROVAL | |
| Simpson Strong Tie has announced that its latest steel connector – the JES (Joist End Support) – has been approved for use by the LABC (local authority building control), strengthening the company’s impressive portfolio of revolutionary I-Loft Suite products.
Allowing the modification of I-joists to fit into the eaves of the roof via its two piece metal-work system, the JES enables the use of engineered timber I-Joists in loft conversions. Each individual JES now has the LABC’s stamp of approval on it, giving the connector huge credibility amongst loft conversion professionals and adds to the benefits associated with the product – including speed and safety in terms of its installation process. • Further information from Simpson Strong Tie, Winchester Road, Cardinal Point, Tamworth B78 3HG. Tel: 01827 255600. E-mail: csanders@strongtie.com Website: www.strongtie.co.uk | |
| PRISON INSTALLS HONEYWELL VALVES FOR IMMEDIATE HOT WATER | |
| A new prison in Scotland has been fitted with 130 Honeywell Kombi-4 throttle valves as an economical way to provide automatic hot water balancing, so ensuring immediate domestic hot water from all outlets. Two Honeywell SV300 fast-acting safety valves are also installed to prevent overpressure in the booster cold water system.
The Kombi-4 valves have a thermal disinfection feature, invaluable during anti-legionella procedures when water over 70 degrees is flushed through the system for thermal disinfection. The Kombi-4 valves automatically open further to ensure hot water is rapidly distributed in all risers and pipelines, whilst maintaining the balance. • Further information from Honeywell Water Products, Honeywell Control Systems Ltd, Honeywell House, Bracknell RG12 1EB. Enquiries Freephone: 0800 7833 824. Fax: 01344 656124. E-mail: water.control@honeywell.com Website: www.honeywellukwater.com | |
| FEEL THE QUALITY AND THE TEXTURE | |
| Powder coating is often specified in either gloss or matt finishes to suit the specification and application. The Qualicoat standard, now in its 12th edition, is freely available as a download from the Qualicoat Europe website and covers the rigorous testing a powder coater has to achieve to carry the Qualicoat label.
Qualicoat has identified the various types of ‘textured finishes’ available and given them standard names. Leathered – an uneven surface finish, Textured – a rough finish, and Wrinkled – derived from the reactivity between hydroxylated resins and melamine resins. By selecting an approved ‘Qualicoat UK & Ireland registered powder coater the user can be assured of best quality finishes. • Further information from Tom Siddle, Qualicoat UK & Ireland, The National Metalforming Centre, Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands B70 6PY. Tel: 0121 601 6746. Fax: 0870 138 9714. E-mail: t_siddle@alfed.org.uk Website: www.qualicoat.net | |
| POPULARITY OF PILKINGTON ENERGIKARE™ EXPLODES WITH PART L | |
| As part of the Pilkington energiKare™ range, sales of Pilkington Optiwhite™ sky rocketed by over 300% in 2009. This demand looks to extend in 2010 with the government amending Part L of the Building Regulations 2010 to reduce CO2 emissions within new and existing homes.
The sales of Pilkington K Glass™ continue to grow despite the difficult market, confirming the demand for energy-efficient glazing and opportunities for Pilkington customers to add value to their IGUs. Both products are integral to the Pilkington energiKare™ range which can deliver homeowner savings of more than 20 tonnes of CO2 and £1,600 over the lifespan of the window. • Further information from Ref: 0233, Pilkington Building Products – UK, Unit 1A, Wirral Business Park, Arrowe Brook Road, Upton, CH49 1QZ. Tel: 01744 692000. Fax: 01744 692880, E-mail: Pilkington@respond.uk.com Website: www.pilkington.co.uk/energikare | |
| NEW PRODUCTS REDUCE INFECTION RISK | |
| Leading hardware and bathroom fittings manufacturer, Samuel Heath has announced the introduction of antimicrobial options across its products ranges, offering designers, specifiers and estate managers the potential to enhance infection resistance in new build and refurbishment projects.
This new product development exploits the copper content of Samuel Heath’s brass products. The natural antimicrobial properties of copper in killing, or rendering inactive, harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses have been recognised for centuries. Samuel Heath’s initiative will see antimicrobial options in the company’s ranges of taps, shower controls and other bathroom fittings as well as door and window hardware and Perko Powermatic® concealed door closers. • Further information from Samuel Heath & Sons Plc, Leopold Street, Birmingham B12 0UJ. Tel: 0121 772 2303. Fax: 0121 772 3334. E-mail: asa.barnbrook@samuel-heath.com | |
| DICKIES – BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY | |
| A new safety boot, specifically designed to offer tough protection against accidental foot injury in most potentially hazardous work situations, has been introduced by Dickies.
The Super Safety Antrim Boot S1-P is a full leather work boot with a 200 Joule steel toe-cap to standard EN20345, and a steel mid-sole; it has a thick grip, dual-density, PU sole which is oil and slip resistant, incorporating antistatic properties which eliminate or reduce any possible static charges by dissipating them into the floor. Ergonomically designed for maximum, all-day comfort, the boot has an anti-chafing padded collar and tongue, and strong, 7 eyelet lacing, and comes in a variety of sizes. • Further information from Jeremy Fraser, Market Connections, 9 Devaney Close, St Anne’s Park, Bristol BS4 4RJ. Tel: 0117 908 2253. E-mail: jf@marketconnections.co.uk | |
| MODULAR POWER QUALITY METER OFFERS SMART PERFORMANCE AND ACCURACY | |
| The latest smart modular power analyser from Carlo Gavazzi introduces a new performance level within the company’s proven energy management range. The WM30-96 offers enhanced faster communications for building automation networks, along with superior functions such as load monitoring measurement and comprehensive alarm management, all in a compact plug-and-play modular format that streamlines installation and simplifies inventory management.
The WM30-96 offers high accuracy for energy metering together with 10 digits for total energy counting, ensuring ideal performance for medium and high voltage applications. High contrast, white backlighting and wide viewing angles ensure that information is easy to see from any position. • Further information from Alison Stevens, Carlo Gavazzi UK Ltd, 7 Springlakes Industrial Estate, Deadbrook Lane, Aldershot GU12 4UH. Tel: 01252 339600 E-mail: sales@carlogavazzi.co.uk Website: www.carlogavazzi.co.uk | |
| SPRINT V FLUE GAS ANALYSER RANGE FOR HEATING ENGINEERS | |
| Designed to assist heating engineers in the safe installation, commissioning and servicing of boilers and combustion systems, Telegan’s Sprint V range provides five instruments in one small, convenient handheld unit: a flue gas analyser, a differential thermometer, a differential manometer, a gas escape detector and a carbon monoxide room safety monitor.
An important feature of the entire sprint V range is ‘Smart Purge’ technology which clears potentially acidic gases from the unit. This helps save battery, pump and filter life, enables intelligent purging for switch-on and switch-off, and allows the purging of gas while other tests are being carried out. • Further information from Crowcon Detection Instruments, 2 Blacklands Way, Abingdon Business Park, Abingdon OX14 1DY. Tel: 01235 557700. Fax: 01235 557718. E-mail: sales@crowcon.com Website: www.crowcon.com | |
| HUNTER DOUGLAS STRIKES GOLD | |
| Hunter Douglas Sun Control & Façades has demonstrated its advanced roll-forming technology with these golden towers that adorn the new Nottingham Contemporary art gallery.
Staffordshire-based Hunter Douglas supplied 800m2 of its market-leading MPF (multiple panel façade) single-skin rainscreen cladding for the £11m project. The gold anodised aluminium panels, which are up to 9 metres high with varying modules, were rolled to create bespoke, convex curves on the roof monitors to mirror the concave curves of the subtly embossed concrete panels at the base of the building. Hunter Douglas also developed new corner profiles specifically for this project. • Further information from Hunter Douglas Sun Controls & Façades, Keys Park Road, Hednesford, Cannock WS12 2FR. Tel: 01543 275757. E-mail: info@hunterdouglas.co.uk Website: www.hunterdouglas.co.uk | |
| ENERGY-FROM-WASTE PLANT FOR ‘SUSTAINABLE’ LONDON | |
| A brand new energy-from-waste plant, which will produce enough electricity to power 66,000 homes as part of London’s drive to become a ‘sustainable city’, is being built using steel galvanized by Worksop Galvanizing.
The Belvedere facility next to the River Thames will burn non-recyclable waste, delivered by barges from four London boroughs. The project includes a 270 metre-long waste transfer jetty for the 60ft barges to unload the waste and re-load the burnt ash. The plant is designed to process around 600,000 tonnes of waste every year. Galvanizing protects steelwork structures from corrosion and damage for up to 60 years, and ensures they are virtually maintenance-free. • Further information from Marketing Department, Wedge Group Galvanizing, Stafford Street, Willenhall WV13 1RZ. Tel: 01902 630311. E-mail: abe@wedgegalv.co.uk Website: www.wedgegalv.co.uk | |
| TERRAPIN TAKES OFFSITE BUILDING INTO CUSTODY | |
| Terrapin’s offsite construction technology have helped the expansion of a Cambridgeshire prison to stay on time and on budget, whilst also achieving an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating and A-rated Energy Performance Certificates.
Purpose-designed Unitrex modules for the new prison buildings were factory fabricated by Terrapin whilst the on-site groundworks were completed, and then delivered in ‘flat pack’ panelised units for rapid erection and finishing on site. In addition to cutting construction time and costs, prefabricating much of the building work offsite has particular benefits in high security areas like prisons, because these methods involve fewer deliveries and less labour on site. • Further information from Adrian Day, Terrapin Ltd, Bond Avenue, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK1 1JJ. Tel: 01908 270900. Fax: 01908 270052. E-mail: info@terrapin-ltd.co.uk Website: www.terrapin-ltd.co.uk | |
| RENDERPLAS ON PARADE IN MAJOR BARRACKS REVAMP | |
| Major barracks improvements for service personnel at Tidworth, Wiltshire, feature external walls newly rendered with military precision using PowerBead PVCu beading from Renderplas to ensure well-regimented joints, corners and edges.
PowerBead was selected as it meets MoD requirements on sustainability and value for money. It is a second generation PVCu bead design, with beads fixed directly to the substrate without mortar, to save time and money. The beads’ extremely strong edges hold their straightness, while the wings flex to take up irregularities in the blockwork. The PVCu material does not discolour over time, so exposed joints and edges will continue to match the colour of the building indefinitely. • Further information from Richard Harley, Renderplas Limited, Stourport Road, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 1BD. Tel: 01299 400340. Fax: 01299 400195. E-mail: enquiry@renderplas.co.uk Website: www.renderplas.co.uk | |
| MODULAR WIRING SYSTEMS PROVES A HIT FOR NEW PRIVATE HOSPITAL IN EDINBURGH | |
| Modular Wiring Systems, a subsidiary of electrical cable manufacturer Tratos Ltd, has designed, manufactured and supplied modular distribution systems for the new Spire Shawfair Park Hospital in Edinburgh.
The LV distribution systems manufactured by Modular Wiring Systems features a 32 amp circuit with high integrity earth. As part of the hospital’s specification, both ring and radial circuits were utilised. Unlike traditional fixed installations, which are labour intensive, offer little in flexibility and remain costly, modular wiring systems allow for a complete installation, from the distribution board to the furthest point of a circuit, by simply connecting the system components together. • Further information from Modular Wiring Systems. Tel: 01753 566700. E-mail: info@modwire.com Website: www.modularwiring.com | |
| SUPPORTING THE OLYMPICS WITH INTELLIGENT BUILDING CONTROLS | |
| Intelligent lighting control technology from ABB played a major role at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China.
The ibus KNX technology was supplied to the National Stadium to enable intelligent automation and control of all lighting, central automation, heating/ventilation control and energy management in the stadium. The National Stadium is protected with ABB’s I-bus KNX switch actuators with load current detection, to observe and measure electrical current and prevent the generation of spikes in the current. The venue is also protected against earth faults with ABB’s Residual Current Devices (RCDs) designed to trip and disconnect the supply of electricity in the event of such a fault. • Further information from Trevor Kirtley, ABB Limited, Tower Court, Foleshill Enterprise Park, Courtaulds Way, Coventry CV6 5NX. Tel: 02476 368500. E-mail: iv.products@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk | |
| BILCO PUTS SAFETY ON TOP | |
| A regeneration project in one of the most run-down areas in London, has put health and safety first by installing Bilco’s market-leading smoke vents.
Bilco’s REM polyester powder coated smoke vents have been fitted in the roofs of new residential buildings in a section of the Isle of Dogs regeneration scheme known as the Crossharbour project. All of the vents are of single leaf design and are fitted with the company’s Bilguard railing system to ensure the safety of people on the roofs. The vents are constructed with corrosion resistant materials to provide many years of trouble free, dependable service and are backed by a 10 year guarantee. • Further information from James Fisher, Bilco UK, 20 Park Farm Business Centre, Fornham St Genevieve, Bury St Edmunds IP28 6TS. Tel: 01284 701696. E-mail: bilcouk@bilco.com Website: www.bilcouk.com | |
| PHOENIX GROWS SOUTH | |
| Interior fit-out specialist Phoenix Interiors has continued its diversification programme by forming a joint venture with Exeter-based Westexe Interiors to expand into the South West of the country.
Initially, Westexe will be focused primarily on growing Phoenix’s expanding stretch ceilings business, but the intention is for this arrangement to become a fully fledged partnership working across all of Phoenix’s interior fit out services. A Barrisol stretch ceiling is a highly versatile and colourful polymer system with a myriad of uses. As well as being extremely flexible, these fabric ceilings, which are literally stretched into place, can be personalised and then manufactured to meet any shape, size or application. • Further information from Phoenix Interiors Ltd, 26 Breakfield, The Ullswater Business Park, Coulsden CR5 2HS. E-mail: andy.britnell@phoenixinteriorsltd.com Website: www.phoenix-interiors.com | |
| WELCOME BREAK CHOOSE JS AIR CURTAINS | |
| JS Air Curtains has supplied eight air curtains to the Welcome Break motorway services at Membury on the M4. The air curtains are helping maintain internal temperatures even with the external doors in constant use.
Five 2m Windbox air curtains and three HeatScreen air curtains are positioned at the front entrance, rear entrance and on some internal doorways. The Windbox air curtain has a powerful output and can be used on doorways up to 3.5m high, and can be horizontally mounted above a doorway or vertically to the side. The units supplied to Welcome Break were white but is available in any RAL colour to suit interior architecture. • Further information from Mike Verney, J S Air Curtains, Artex Avenue, Rustington, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN16 3LN. Tel: 01903 858656. Fax: 01903 850345. E-mail: sales@jsaircurtains.com Website: www.jsaircurtains.com | |
| SEPARATING QUOINS RELIABLY SECURED | |
| Woodlands Children’s Home in Huddersfield was suffering from separation of the decorative stone quoins on the building’s corners due to rotational movement. To prevent the quoins from becoming unstable and separating from the main structure, Helifix remedial products were specified to rectify the situation.
Helifix Approved Installer, Grove Building Solutions, installed HeliBar stainless steel helical bars between every quoin on each of the front four corners of the two storey property. The bars were bonded into channelled-out mortar beds, bent around the corners and extended 500mm beyond the end of each quoin. They reinforced the masonry, fixed the quoins securely to the building and stabilised each of the corners. • Further information from Helifix Ltd, 21 Warple Way, London W3 0RX. Tel: 0208 735 5200. E-mail: info@helifix.co.uk Website: www.helifix.co.uk | |
| TEXECOM LAUNCHES NEW WIRELESS SYSTEM FOR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL SECURITY | |
| Texecom Ltd has launched its professional-grade mesh network wireless platform: RICOCHET. This innovative technology has been designed from the ground up to overcome the limitations and address the concerns of existing wireless security systems.
By creating a mesh network of interconnecting points, the RICOCHET system maintains signal integrity even in the event of direct-line interference. Texecom has also developed the new SignalSecurity diagnostic tool, which actively monitors the wireless network in real-time – eliminating the need for cumbersome site signal strength surveys. It shows, in real-time, the network’s status and condition, and the total number of alternative signal routes for each device. • Further information from Texecom Ltd, Bradwood Court, St Crispin Way, Haslingden BB4 4PW. Tel: 01706 234800. E-mail: sales@texe.com Website: www.texe.com | |
| ROCKWOOL LAUNCHES GUIDE FOR EDUCATION SECTOR | |
| Rockwool, manufacturer of non-combustible stone wool insulation solutions, has produced a new guide on how its insulation systems and solutions can help those involved in the construction or refurbishment of educational facilities.
The guide, available through Rockwool’s website outlines how Rockwool products can help meet a range of design requirements throughout the building envelope and deliver consistent, long-lasting and high-performing insulation for the education environment. Rockwool can help reduce the distraction caused by external and internal noise sources through its outstanding acoustic abilities, reduce energy bills through thermal insulation and even help prevent the spread of – and subsequent damage caused by flames in the event of a fire. • Further information from Rockwool Limited, Pencoed, Bridgend CF35 6NY. Tel: 0871 222 1780. E-mail: education@rockwool.co.uk Website: www.rockwool.co.uk | |
| CGI’S INVESTMENT PUTS IT A CUT ABOVE THE REST AND DOUBLES PRODUCTION | |
| Investment in new cutting equipment will see CGI International double its cut fire safety glass output and increase revenues in 2010.
Fire safety glass manufacturer CGI has installed a laminate cutting table and re-configured the 30,000 sq ft factory’s cutting area to improve efficiency and material flow. CGI supplies a full range of fire safety glasses including: integrity only (E), integrity and insulating glass (EI) and integrity and radiation control glass (EW). CGI have been able to raise their output of finished cut-to-size-glass pieces four-fold for 7mm Pyroguard and the new set-up dovetails well with existing manual cutting operation. • Further information from CGI International, International House, Millfield Lane, Haydock WA11 9GA. Tel: 01942 710720. E-mail: info@cgii.co.uk Website: www.cgii.co.uk | |
| METSPEC 12 FEATURES EUROCODES | |
| Metsec has launched the latest version of its building shell design software MetSPEC 12, including design analysis to Structural Eurocode EC: Part 1.3.
Roy Burns, Divisional MD of Metsec’s Lightweight Structural Systems, said their aim was to help engineers get used to the new requirements and method of working in relation to wind loading for the structural design of calculations to BS EN 1991-1-4 and BS 6399-2. At the Steel Construction Eurocodes design guidance launch, it was stated that ‘engineers need more Eurocode compliant software, of the kind Metsec is offering with MetSPEC 12 if the industry is to make the transition to working to Eurocodes within timescale allowed’. • Further information from Metsec Plc, Broadwell Road, Oldbury, West Midlands B69 4HF. Tel: 0121 601 6126. E-mail: interactive@metsec.com Website: www.metsec.com | |
| SIMPSON UNVEILS NEW PRODUCT PACKAGING | |
| Simpson Strong Tie has unveiled new packaging for its complete builder’s metalwork product range of connectors and structural systems.
The new packaging has been redesigned with a retail experience in mind, using a bright white box which can be placed directly on the retailer’s shelf, featuring a perforated tear top and large colour label clearly showing what the product is, and what it does. The new style of box makes merchandising much easier as product remains in the carton, reducing manual handling. And since the display box stock is replaced when stock is replenished, the product display is much more likely to remain clean and well organised. • Further information from Simpson Strong Tie, Winchester Road, Cardinal Point, Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3HG. E-mail: csanders@strongtie.com Website: www.strongtie.co.uk | |
| HEIGHT OF ACHIEVEMENT | |
| Signbox, the architectural sign specialist, has completed a highly complex and technically demanding project to manufacture and install a substantial corporate logo to the north elevation of Northern Trust’s European headquarters building in Canary Wharf, London.
The project involved installing a detailed symbol and individually fabricated stainless steel letters which make up Northern Trust’s logo. What made the project so demanding technically is that there proved to be limited scope to secure the sign on top of the building. The logo is not passive, it is illuminated by twin circuits of LEDs, which are controlled by photocells and a timer, all adding to the complexity of the assignment. • Further information from Signbox, 3 Egham Business Village, Crabtree Road, Egham TW20 8RB. Tel: 01784 438688. E-mail: sales@signbox.co.uk Website: www.signbox.co.uk | |
| LINDAPTER SECURES TARGET FIELD CANOPY | |
| Target Field ballpark is the new home of Minnesota Twins, an American professional baseball team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which features a 1,988 ton steel sunshade canopy, with a 7,732 m2 glistening soffit suspended overhead with Lindapter steelwork fixings.
Lindapter provided the Type LR Girder Clamp connection system, which is compatible with flange thicknesses of 3 to 20mm, while an over-sized slotted location plate enabled the simple adjustment to fit variations in beam width and connection angle. The efficient connection allowed the canopy risers to be easily aligned into position, allowing a faster installation in comparison to more time consuming conventional methods, thereby reducing on-site costs. • Further information from Lindapter International, Lindsay House, Brackenbeck Road, Bradford BD7 2NF. Tel: 01274 521444. E-mail: enquiries@lindapter.com Website: www.lindapter.com | |
| ALL FOUR SEASONS BOXES CLEVER WITH FUJITSU | |
| Fujitsu’s J-Series is playing an important part as a vital component in a system which provides free and eco-friendly hot water for homes and businesses. The development of the Eco Hot Box™, a zero carbon method to produce free hot water, is a major technological breakthrough by ‘All Four Seasons’, the air conditioning and heat pump installation specialists.
The system is simple in both concept and installation; it consists of a thermal store, Eco Hot Box™ and circulation pump connected to Fujitsu’s J-Series air conditioning unit. Waste heat from the air conditioning system is simply converted into free hot water when operating in cooling mode. • Further information from FGE. Tel: 0208 731 3450. Website: www.fgeurofred.co.uk | |
| HAMWORTHY LAUNCH A HEATING REVOLUTION | |
| Hamworthy Heating launched its TherMaster range of hydraulic interface units at Ecobuild 2010.
Hamworthy’s TherMaster hydraulic interface units are particularly suited to multiple occupancy buildings. The system uses a central plant room for heat generation and hydraulic interface units for heat transfer, distribution and control. This centralised approach means renewable energy technologies can be used where previously they were constrained by use of individual systems. The benefit is that buildings are safer, as the TherMaster range removes the need for gas in each dwelling. The building energy ratings are improved and building operating costs reduced. Simplified metering and billing mean that tenants only pay for what they use. • Further information from Hamworthy Heating Ltd, Fleets Corner, Poole BH17 0HH. Tel: 0845 450 2865. E-mail: sales@hamworthy-heating.com Website: www.hamworthy-heating.com | |
| TERRAPIN’S 70-DAY UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE FOR ‘BABY STUDENTS’ | |
| Seventy days from start-on-site to finished, that’s the challenge offsite construction specialist Terrapin successfully tackled with a new building to expand the nursery facilities for children of students and staff at Reading University. The new Little Learners day nursery was manufactured in Terrapin’s Milton Keynes factory and assembled on site during the summer break to create the 678m2 single storey building, ready for the new academic year.
Terrapin is a leading UK producer of high quality panelised and volumetric buildings and, compared to conventional building, the Terrapin process reduces time on site, cuts the number of deliveries and is virtually unaffected by weather conditions. • Further information from Adrian Day, Terrapin Ltd, Bond Avenue, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK1 1JJ. Tel: 01908 270900. Fax: 01908 270052. E-mail: info@terrapin-ltd.co.uk Website: www.terrapin-ltd.co.uk | |
| EATON PUTS ENERGY IN THE SPOTLIGHT! | |
| Innovative products for saving energy and monitoring energy usage are the central focus of the Eaton stand at Northern Ireland’s Electrical Trade Show 2010. Among the many highlights are Memera consumer units, Memshield 3 final distribution products, Glasgow switch- and fusegear and XEnergy modular distribution switchboards, all of which are now offered with versatile metering options. Also on show is the Xcomfort range of wireless residential building automation products, that gives users full control over their installation and energy consumption, as well as the Powerware series of UPS equipment that provides power and back-up solutions from an individual PC into large 3-phase data centres.
• Further information from Eaton Information Response Service, Grimshaw Lane, Middleton, Manchester M24 1GQ. Tel: 0161 655 8900. E-mail: literature-info@eaton.com Website: www.eaton.com | |
| FOOD INDUSTRY TECHNICAL SIGNS OEM SUPPLIER AGREEMENT WITH ABB | |
| ABB has signed an OEM supplier agreement to provide several hundred variable speed AC drives per annum to Food Industry Technical (FIT). The Berkshire-based manufacturer of energy saving ventilation control systems for the commercial catering industry is now able to offer ABB drives in their installations for customers.
FIT’s flagship product is the Cheetah™. ABB is supplying its ABB standard drives and ABB general machinery drives, ranging from 1.1 kW up to 22 kW to control the supply fans’ and extract fans’ motors within the Cheetah™. The drives are housed in electronically shielded enclosures, fitted with appropriate filters and installed to ensure compliance with EMC regulations. • Further information from ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741 111. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk/energy | |
| SPP PUMPS HELP TO HOUSE PLUTO WORKFORCE | |
| The Pluto liquid natural gas (LNG) project is located in the Northern Carnarvon Basin, Western Australia, one of Australia’s largest LNG plants.
Pumping expertise was required to assist with the transportation by sea of temporary living quarters to the site. It was imperative that the barge remained at a constant level with the wharf to ensure the loading was done safely. Pumps with a very similar flow rate were used, so that all the tanks could be filled at an identical rate. A total of 10 SPP Autoprime QI150M pumpsets was supplied, which included a couple of back up pumps as part of a contingency plan. • Further information from Claire Comber, SPP Pumps Ltd, Theale Cross, Pincents Lane, Calcot, Reading RG31 7SP. Tel: 0118 932 3123. E-mail: claire_comber@spppumps.com Website: www.spppumps.com | |
| OVENTROP AQUATROM DHW VALVES AID COMMISSIONING AND RULE OUT LEGIONNELLA RISKS | |
| All the regulating valves used in the heating systems of the new Oscott Retirement Village at Erdington in Birmingham are of Oventrop UK supply.
Oventrop double regulating and differential pressure valves are used throughout the building to control system balance. Each apartment is fitted with an Oventrop Aquastrom R Plus multifunction domestic hot water secondary circulation regulating valve on the DHW return leg. As well as thermostatically controlling temperature and flow in the system. The valve is factory preset and, simplifying the commissioning stage, this valve provides significant energy savings by eliminating cold deadlegs and the risk of Legionnella bacteria growth. • Further information from Stephen Walton, Oventrop UK Ltd, Oventrop House, Hatch Industrial Park, Greywell Road, Hatch, Basingstoke RG24 7NG. Tel: 01256 330 441. E-mail: sales@oventrop.co.uk | |
| 20% INCREASE IN COOLING EFFICIENCY CLAIMED FOR NEW BRAZED HEAT EXCHANGER | |
| AC500 is an innovative and ultra-efficient Alfa Laval brazed heat exchanger specifically developed to work in air conditioning, refrigeration, and heat pump applications.
With a single and double refrigerant circuit, the AC500 is ideal for chillers in the 200-600 kW range and is particularly suitable as an evaporator and a condenser in both chillers and heat pumps. Thanks to an innovative channel plate design incorporating a distribution system, the AC500 will provide a 5% improvement in COP or 20% increase in cooling capacity compared to existing products. The AC500’s patented integrated distributor, pressed into the plate surface, ensures the highest level of quality and performance reliability. • Further information from Peter Rose, Alfa Laval Ltd, Doman Road, Camberley GU15 3DN. Tel: 01276 413632. E-mail: peter.rose@alfalaval.com Website: www.alfalaval.com | |
| ALL SYSTEMS GO WITH PILKINGTON ENERGIKARE™ | |
| Leading sealed unit manufacturer Glass Systems has launched energy efficient Pilkington energiKare™ to its customers, ready for the implementation of amendments to Part L in October 2010.
Operating from three sites in South Wales, including its flagship facility in Swansea, Glass Systems provides insulating glass units to domestic, commercial, new build and local authority customers. Pilkington energiKare™ combines two leading Pilkington products, Pilkington Optiwhite™ and Pilkington K Glass™, and can reduce net heat loss from windows by up to 90 per cent, when upgrading from single glazing. Pilkington energiKare™ allows in more heat and light from the sun, contributing positively to a home’s energy requirements. • Further information from Pilkington Building Products – UK, Ref: 0236, Unit 1A, Wirral Business Park, Arrowe Brook Road, Upton, Merseyside CH49 1QZ. Tel: 01744 692000. Fax: 01744 692880. E-mail: pilkington@respond.uk.com | |
| REVOLUTIONARY MAINLINE POWER TRACK PROVIDES FLEXIBLE ACCESS TO MAINS POWER | |
| A practical and attractive new way to access flexible mains power is being launched by specialist technology distributors, Steljes Limited. Mainline is a power track that allows a user to instantly add, reposition or remove power sockets anywhere along its length. By proving truly flexible access to mains electricity wherever it is used, Mainline overcomes the restriction imposed by fixed power outlets on room layout. It is safe and conforms to all relevant standards once installed correctly.
Mainline power track comes in standard lengths of 2.2m and can be cut to suit, on site, for shorter length requirements or joined together for longer spans. • Further information from Steljes, Bagshot Manor, Green Lane, Bagshot, Surrey GU19 5NL. Tel: 08450 758758. E-mail: mainline@steljes.co.uk Website: www.mainlinepower.co.uk | |
| PRESTIGIOUS NEW RETIREMENT HOME GETS SOPHISTICATED ROOFING FINISH | |
| When Sunrise Senior Living was looking to develop a prestigious new care home in the north west of England, it found its roofing needs satisfied through the specification of Marley Eternit’s Hawkins clay plain tiles.
Over 100,000 Hawkins clay plain tiles have been used on the project, to cover a roof area of 1,700 square metres. Selected in colour, Dark Heather, the tiles provided the care home with an elegant, yet modern look. Through the use of modern firing techniques, the product is offered in four distinctive colours. Additionally, the project is available with a complementary range of fittings and accessories. • Further information from Marley Eternit. Tel: 01283 722588. E-mail: roofinginfo@marleyeternit.co.uk | |
| EDINBURGH TRAMS SAFELY BEDDED DOWN WITH SIKA | |
| The Edinburgh Tramways project is being constructed from Gogar to Newhaven to reduce Edinburgh’s traffic congestion problems.
Sika has designed a special concrete mix for the track beds on the high profile Princes Street of the route. A good strong, flat surface is an essential requirement on which to lay the tracks with no voids between the track and the concrete bed. Sika Viscocrete 15RM admixture is incorporated in the mix design to give good flow with extended workability to the concrete coupled with high strength and low bleed. This system ensures all criteria are met for the track bed and ensures the future integrity of the tramway. • Further information from Mike Lewis, Sika Limited, Watchmead, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1BQ. Tel: 01707 394444. E-mail: concrete@uk.sika.com Website: www.sika.co.uk | |
| NEW LOOK SEALANT SYSTEM SUPPORTS BUILDERS’ ENERGY EFFICIENCY NEEDS | |
| Sealants are becoming an increasingly valuable part of the toolkit as demands for energy efficiency increase and air-tightness becomes more important.
The FROTH-PAK foam machine from Dow Building Solutions has been specially designed as a foamed-in-place polyurethane sealant to help control air leakage from buildings and insulate gaps, cracks, cavities and joints in the building envelope. It can also be used for sealing-in doors and windows and at roof/wall intersections. The system comes with a redesigned INSTA-FLO Gun, a sturdy, lightweight applicator which helps control flow rate, reducing overspray and waste. The gun comes with a safety mechanism to protect against accidental discharge, and a range of specially-designed nozzles. • Further information from Debra Runge, Dow Building Solutions, Diamond House, Lotus Park, Kingsbury Crescent, Staines TW18 3AG. Tel: 0203 139 4190. Fax: 0203 139 4013. E-mail: fklmail@dow.com Website: www.styrofoam.co.uk | |
| JS AIR CURTAINS AT UNION SQUARE | |
| JS Air Curtains has supplied air curtains for the recently opened Union Square Shopping Centre in Aberdeen. Three different types of air curtains are helping prevent cold air from entering the retail development.
Half the units supplied are 2m long stainless steel Rund air curtains. They can be used in the winter to keep the cold air out or in the summer, with their heaters off, to keep expensive air conditioned air in. The other two models installed are Finesse concealed units for use in suspended ceilings and Mini Optima air curtains. All air curtains supplied are controlled via the building’s BMS system. • Further information from Mike Verney, J S Air Curtains, Artex Avenue, Rustington, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN16 3LN. Tel: 01903 858656. Fax: 01903 850345. E-mail: sales@jsaircurtains.com Website: www.jsaircurtains.com | |
| CATTLE AT SEA KEPT COMFORTABLE BY ELTA FANS | |
| Fans from Elta Fans Building Services Division are helping keep ventilation conditions on an even keel for livestock on board the Lebanese cargo ship F.M. Spiridon. Forty long-cased, axial fans have been supplied for fitting to the Beirut-based steamer. The vessel is used to transport animals to and from markets around the world.
The LC063, 5-bladed, axial fans supplied have a diameter of 630mm and are part of the extensive, robust range of long-cased, hardworking axial fans, fitted with adjustable-pitch, aerofoil-section, bladed impellers. They combine excellent performance with strength, durability and corrosion resistance and were specially supplied without casings for the ventilation of livestock in transit. • Further information from Jenna Chambers, Elta Fans, 46, Third Avenue, Pensnett Trading Estate, Kingswinford DY6 7US. Tel: 01384 275766. E-mail: jchambers@eltagroup.co.uk Website: www.eltafans.com | |
| PIPING SYSTEM COMBINES ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE WITH GOOD LOOKS FOR NEW MANCHESTER DEVELOPMENT | |
| The Terrain Acoustic dB12 piping system is one of a package of products from Polypipe Terrain which has been installed on an innovative new residential development in Manchester. Along with other Terrain Drainage products the Terrain Acoustic dB12 system has been used on the mixed-use Abito development built in Manchester’s Salford Quays.
Terrain Acoustic dB12 provides a simple, quick and cost effective sound control measure which can substantially exceed the sound performance requirements of the Building Regulations. Ideally suited to multi-occupancy buildings, the system’s multilayer pipe construction and acoustically insulating fittings create a durable and reliable solution that increases the level of soundproofing within a building. • Further information from Polypipe Terrain. Tel: 01622 795200. E-mail: commercialenquiries@polypipe.com Website: www.polypipe.com | |
| ISO RECOGNITION MATCHES GLOBAL VISION | |
| Mitsubishi Electric has secured ISO14001 recognition for its Sales and Marketing function in a move which brings the Living Environmental Systems Division (LES) in line with the company’s many manufacturing facilities around the globe.
Companies undertaking ISO14001 have to demonstrate an ongoing commitment to reducing their impact on the environment by cutting waste, unnecessary travel and lowering overall resource and energy consumption. The company is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of commercial heating, cooling and ventilation equipment, is a pioneer in the use of air source heat pumps for the residential sector, and has now entered the power generation market with an advanced range of photovoltaic equipment. • Further information from Mitsubishi Electric. E-mail: air.conditioning@meuk.mee.com Website: www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/aircon | |
| MARSTON’S GEARS UP FOR INCREASED PRODUCTION | |
| Beverage firm, Marston’s, located in Burton-on-Trent, has seen business boom following growth in recent years of the home drinking market. With increasing demand for its bottling and distribution services from global drinks manufacturers, the company has recently invested in extensive additional storage facilities to cover and protect the thousands of crates being stored ready for despatch.
A huge 1,500 square metres building supplied by Spaciotempo has been erected on site, conveniently located next to the production line. The company is benefiting from improved production efficiencies as a result of the extensive new space and the line is now never unnecessarily stopped due to lack of storage facilities. • For further information call Spaciotempo on 01889 569569 Website: www.spaciotempo.co.uk | |
| POLYPIPE VENTILATION LAUNCHES COMPLETE MVHR SYSTEM SOLUTION | |
| Polypipe Ventilation offers a complete integrated ventilation system with the launch of its new Energy Saving Trust Best Practice compliant and SAP Q rated Mechanical Extract Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) range.
The HR01 MVHR unit works by warming fresh air drawn into the building with the heat from waste stale air using an efficient counter flow heat exchanger. An average bathroom full of moist air can contain over 600 watts of heat energy and is exhausted twice every hour; the HR01 can recover more than 92% of this heat directly saving cost and reducing carbon emissions, and helps prevent condensation and improves overall indoor air quality. • Further information from Polypipe Ventilation. Tel: 08443 715523. E-mail: vent.info@polypipe.com Website: www.polypipe.com | |
| A MIX OF HEATING GIVES WARMTH TO WELSH FARMHOUSE | |
| Myson Floortec, the first name in underfloor heating, has helped to give a refurbished Welsh farmhouse a warm feeling.
The house, in Graigwen, near Cardiff, was originally built 250 years ago, but has only ever been refurbished piecemeal until now. Its current owner, Jerry Sprudd, has now spent three years having the house completely reshaped internally and Cardiff-based Heatforce (Wales) Ltd has installed Myson Floortec underfloor heating throughout the property’s ground floor. The open spaces on the ground floor are ideally served by underfloor heating, which will give efficient, uniform heat throughout, and with the upstairs more divided, the radiators will add to the warmth in the individual rooms. • Further information from Rettig (UK) Ltd – Myson, Eastern Avenue, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead NE11 0PG | |
| FIND THE RIGHT MOTOR OR DRIVE WITH NEW ABB CATALOGUE | |
| The 2010 ABB drives and motors catalogue has new features that make it quick and simple to find the right motor and drive for your application.
The Product Quickfinder is an easy-to-read table that helps you produce a shortlist of drives and motors for your application from among the large number of products in the ABB range. The Featurefinder helps you home in on the right product with the features to fit your application. New products featured include a new ABB standard drive for pump and fan applications. Rated up to 22kW, it features pump control functions such as pipe cleaning, pipe fill and PID control. • Further information from ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Warrington WA4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741111. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk/energy | |
| AIRCONFORALL…AND ALL FOR AIR CON | |
| Airconforall.com is a family business based in West Hyde, Hertfordshire, specialising in the installation, maintenance and repair of air conditioning systems.
The company was importing a full range of air con products from the Czech Republic, including simple split through to large VRF units. However, the difficult trading conditions over the last year prompted a rethink. Keith Gordon, who is in charge of sales and operations at airconforall, made a trip to the RAC show in 2009 which led him to the FG Eurofred stand and a new working relationship. Fujitsu’s Japanese design offers superior quality. The indoor units are quieter, and are well designed and attractive. • Further information from FG, Tel: 0208 731 3450. Website: www.fgeurofred.co.uk | |
| AFFORDABLE HOUSING NOW CHEAPER TO RUN | |
| The installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on affordable homes in Huddersfield has proved even more energy efficient than Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing (KNH) and its supplier Photon Energy anticipated. Not only have the residents concerned gained from the production of electricity on site at their homes, they have also become more economical in their use of electricity.
KNH commissioned Photon Energy to install solar panels on the roofs of 30 bungalows and flats for older people at Fernside Estate in the Almondbury area of Huddersfield. Each system has a total power of 1.3kWp and is expected to generate over 1,000 kWh of electricity a year. • Further information from Photon Energy Ltd. Tel: 0118 925 5289. E-mail: jb@photonenergy.co.uk Website: www.photonenergy.co.uk | |
| INSULATION EXPERT URGES BUILDING DESIGNERS TO CONSIDER BELOW-SLAB INSULATION | |
| ‘Below-slab insulation is the right design choice when aiming for an ‘envelope’ of continuous insulation that minimises heat loss’ said Stephen Johnson, Technical Sales Manager for Dow Building Solutions. ‘Because it resists moisture our FLOORMATE 300-A is ideal for below-slab insulation. It’s also durable enough to be laid beneath floors which can help avoid thermal bridges at floor and wall junctions.’
FLOORMATE 300-A is made from STYROFOAM-A, the blue extruded polystyrene foam insulation invented by The Dow Chemical Company. It has all the qualities expected from STYROFOAM – high compressive strength and design load, low water absorption, ease of installation and excellent insulating properties. • Further information from Debra Runge, Dow Building Solutions, Diamond House, Lotus Park, Kingsbury Crescent, Staines, Middlesex TW18 3AG. Tel: +44 (0) 20 3139 4190. Fax: +44 (0) 20 3139 4013. E-mail: FKLMAIL@dow.com Website: www.styrofoam.co.uk | |
| ABB RECORDS STRONG GROWTH IN HVAC | |
| ABB is making an attack on the UK heating and ventilation (HVAC) industry to further strengthen its position in the supply of variable speed drives.
In 2002, ABB announced plans to capture 20 per cent of the market by 2007, which it surpassed by 2006. By 2009 the company had 26 per cent market share, with the sector showing unprecedented growth in 2009 at the height of the recession. ABB believes the secret to its success has been a demand for a strong supplier with a wide range of dedicated HVAC drives, combined with unrivalled backup and a range of services and solutions tailored to the HVAC market. • Further information from Steve Ruddell, ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741111. Fax: 01925 741212. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk/energy | |
| REPLACE PIONEERS STILL BENEFITING FROM LOWER BILLS | |
| The owners of the UK’s first R22 replacement system are still benefiting from lower energy bills nearly five years after the installation of the unique Mitsubishi Electric system.
St Clements Services Ltd, replaced the old air conditioning with a heating/cooling City Multi Y Series, using what was then, ground-breaking Replace Technology. The Replace Multi system used the existing pipework and wiring and updated the indoor and outdoor units, whilst removing the old, environmentally unfriendly R22 refrigerant. Mitsubishi Electric has developed an entire range of R22 replacement solutions since launching its Replace technology in 2005. These can also be used to replace the R22 systems of many other manufacturers. • Further information from Mitsubishi Electric. Tel: 01707 282880. E-mail: air.conditioning@meuk.mee.com | |
| EXPANSION CONTINUES AT BAUDER | |
| Leading flat roof waterproofing manufacturer, Bauder, has enjoyed substantial growth over the last decade, and with this set to continue the company has expanded into new premises which doubles their current offices and warehouse facilities.
The new premises are located within Ipswich, overlooking Landseer Park, and maintain the company’s links with the town which began in 1979. The building, previously occupied by Lister Locks Ltd, underwent an extensive £600k refurbishment programme to convert it into contemporary offices and warehouse with modern freight handling capabilities. The expansion of the UK operation is part of a two year investment plan by the Bauder Group worth over £25million. • Further information from Lisa Phillips, Bauder Ltd, 70 Landseer Road, Ipswich IP3 0DH. Tel: 01473 257671. E-mail: info@bauder.co.uk Website: www.bauder.co.uk | |
| KLARGESTER WELCOMES NEW LEGISLATION EXEMPTIONS FOR DOMESTIC SEWAGE TANKS | |
| Klargester welcomes the move whereby owners of domestic septic tanks or sewage treatment plants in England and Wales may no longer need to apply for a permit to discharge under new exemptions by the Environmental Agency.
Kevin Roe, Kingspan Environmental’s GB Sales Director for pollution control products, which owns Klargester, says they support the new exemptions and would encourage builders to consider automatically installing EN12566-rated products such as the BioDisc sewage treatment plant and the Apha Septic tank. For preference they recommend installing a sewage treatment plant for off-mains drainage as it will be far more efficient than a septic tank at treating the waste within the effluent. • Further information from Klargester, Tel: 0845 873 2333. E-mail: pollutiongb@kingspanenv.com Website: www.ask.klargester.com | |
| MARSHALLS LAUNCHES NATURAL STONE PORTFOLIO | |
| From the beauty of natural Yorkstone to the style and sophistication of granite and Alta Quartzite, Marshalls natural stone materials offer endless opportunities to bring landscaping to life and now the full range is available through Marshalls new Natural Stone Landscape Product Selector and website.
Showcasing the largest range of Yorkstone in the UK, with case studies and visualisation in a variety of different landscapes including schools, heritage, retail, commercial and contemporary settings, the new brochure brings together Marshalls’ extensive portfolio of natural stone products and offers inspirational and unique design solutions from Marshalls experts. • Further information from Diane Kay, Marshalls Plc, Landscape House, Premier Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire HX5 9HT. Tel: 0870 241 2463. Website: www.marshalls.co.uk/naturalstone | |
| FULL MARKS FOR LIGHTWEIGHT ROOF SOLUTION | |
| Building designers looking for an easy-to-install, cost effective insulation solution for lightweight roofs have a tailor-made product to turn to: ROOFMATE LG-A from Dow Building Solutions. The product is designed for buildings where limited roof top access is expected and can be used alongside Dow’s ROOFMATE SL-A boards as an insulation solution for parapets.
The product is part of Dow’s environmentally advanced STYROFOAM-A range, which uses technology that takes CO2 from industry and uses it as a blowing agent in order to create blue extruded polystyrene foam with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than five. ROOFMATE LG-A is also designed to minimise the effect of wind uplift. • Further information from Debra Runge, Dow Building Solutions, Diamond House, Lotus Park, Kingsbury Crescent, Staines TW18 3AG. Tel: 0203 139 4190. Fax: 0203 139 4013. E-mail: fklmail@dow.com Website: www.styrofoam.co.uk | |
| ABB LAUNCHES DRIVES AND MOTORS SWAPPAGE SCHEME BY OFFERING TO PAY YOUR VAT | |
| ABB launches its drives and motors swappage scheme, allowing companies to trade in their old products from any manufacturer for new ABB drives and motors.
The scheme offers at least 17.5 per cent discount off published list prices for new drives from 0.12kW to 400 kW and new motors from 0.75 kW to 710 kW when old equivalent products from any manufacturer are traded in. Organisations that take advantage of the swappage scheme will benefit from improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance downtime. In order to get the correct drive or motor to match the needs of individual installations, ABB is offering a free, no obligation energy appraisal. • Futher information from ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741111. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk | |
| OVENTROP CONTROLS RADIANT PANELS AT ALTNAGELVIN AREA HOSPITAL IN DERRY | |
| Over 300 Oventrop TRVs together with Aquastrom T Plus multifunction domestic hot water secondary circulation regulating valves were chosen by R&F Mechanical Services, Ballymoney, for control and system balancing in the new South Wing of Altnagelvin Area Hospital in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
Heating is primarily ceiling mounted radiant panels fitted with Oventrop AV6 TRVs and remote sensors linked by 10 metre capillaries to remote thermostat housings in the rooms and Combi 4 lockshield valves on the returns. To eliminate Legionella risks Oventrop Aquastrom T Plus multifunction domestic hot water secondary circulation regulating valves are used on all the domestic hot water supplies. • Further information from Stephen Walton, Oventrop UK Ltd, Oventrop House, Hatch Industrial Park, Greywell Road, Hatch, Basingstoke RG24 7NG. Tel: 01256 330441. E-mail: sales@oventrop.co.uk | |
| SIMPSON STRONG-TIE LAUNCHES NEW GLULAM RANGE | |
| Simpson Strong Tie has launched a complete new suite of environmentally friendly Glued Laminate Timber products, suitable for use in Glulam construction.
The new range now enables connectors to do their job invisibly whilst showing off the timber at the same time. The core of the range is made up of concealed beam hangers, apex plates, anchor bolts/fastenings, face fix hangers and shear rings. The range is further supported by a rapid, made-to-order service for bespoke designed apex and knee plates. With Glulam’s associated green credentials, there has been a recent surge in public sector buildings, such as leisure centres, opting to become ‘green’ Glulam builds. • Further information from Simpson Strong Tie, Winchester Road, Cardinal Point, Tamworth B78 3HG. Tel: 01827 255660. E-mail: csanders@strongtie.com Website: www.strongtie.co.uk | |
| DRAX RAISES THE BAR FOR FIRE ALARM MAINTENANCE STANDARDS | |
| Drax (UK) Ltd has launched IRIS (Internet Recording Information System), a new web-based service management system. This system helps Drax (UK) deliver industry-leading levels of maintenance support for fire detection and alarm installations and ensure that users meet their statutory duty of care and adhere to health and safety guidelines whilst helping reduce unwanted fire signals.
IRIS can be securely accessed using a standard web browser enabling Drax (UK) to manage and monitor every stage of the maintenance process from any authorised location around the clock. IRIS also enables customers to access detailed information about every service call, current and completed jobs and all recorded site visit history. • Further information from Chris Wilkinson, Drax (UK) Ltd, Pixmore Centre, Pixmore Avenue, Letchworth SG6 1JG. Tel: 01462 634554. E-mail: info@draxuk.com Website: www.draxuk.com | |
| SOUTHEND STUDENT CAMPUS GETS ACCOMMODATION FAST THANKS TO BELL & WEBSTER | |
| Bell & Webster has supplied its structural precast concrete rooms system to Hollybrook Limited for new student accommodation at the University of Essex. Comprising 561 student bedrooms, the project required a total of 2,251 Bell & Webster factory engineered concrete units.
With 1,296 wall units and a build height of 10 storeys, the new building has been constructed to create a strong, robust structure that can be installed and fixed far quicker than most alternative building systems for this scale of building. Good project planning between Bell & Webster and Hollybrook Limited kept project costs down by using just one installation team rather than two as originally planned. • Further information from Bell & Webster. Website: www.bellandwebster.co.uk | |
| CALL POINTS FOR ALL APPLICATIONS | |
| The manual call point family from KAC includes units designed for installation in a vast range of applications. The standard MCP indoor version is ideal for offices, hotels and public buildings.
The MCP is the core product within the range. Modular in construction and available in both break glass and resettable versions, the units feature a unique termination connector that enables first fix wiring to be tested for continuity and ground faults without the call point having to be installed. Installation time is significantly reduced when compared to previous generations. Alternative standard switching configurations and different resister values ensure compatibility with the great majority of available control equipment. • Further information from Mark Thomson, KAC Alarm Company, KAC House, Thornhill Road, North Moons Moat, Redditch B98 9ND. Tel: 01527 406655. Fax: 01527 406677. E-mail: sales@kac.co.uk Website: www.kac.co.uk | |
| HURRICANE CONDITIONS ARE NO PROBLEM FOR BILCO | |
| Bilco has become the first manufacturer of roof hatches which pass the revised requirements of the Florida Building code.
The Florida Building Code was revised in 1992 following hurricane Andrew. In 2007 roof hatches were added to the list of products that are required to be tested to high velocity hurricane zone standards. Bilco subjected four of its most popular roof hatches to a battery of tests and all four units survived impressively well. These Bilco products are the only roof hatches to have received Notice of Approval (NOA) in the State of Florida, which signifies full compliance with the Florida Building Code. • Further information from Bilco. E-mail: bilcouk@bilco.com Website: www.bilco.com | |
| WAGNER LAUNCHES CPD SEMINAR TO DEMYSTIFY NEW EUROPEAN STANDARD FOR ASPIRATING SMOKE DETECTION | |
| EN54 Part 20 is the new European product standard for Aspirating Smoke Detectors.
WAGNER has launched a series of CPD Seminars to help fire system designers, installers and consultants better understand the implications of a new European Standard that has changed the way Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems have to be designed and installed. The hour-long CPD Seminars clearly explain the implications of the new standard and what is required to design and install a compliant system. WAGNER UK can also deliver seminars at client’s premises, to suit their own timeframe, or at WAGNER’s own offices where their comprehensive demonstration facilities can be utilised. • Further information from WAGNER UK limited, Unit F, South Cambridge Business Park, Babraham Road, Sawston CB22 3JH. Tel: 0870 333 6116. Fax: 0870 333 4544. E-mail: sales@wagner-uk.com Website: www.wagner-uk.com | |
| HOW TO HAVE FORESIGHT WITH YOUR EYESIGHT | |
| Results of tests conducted by uvex show that if organisations buy cheap safety spectacles, rather than superior quality ones, they end up paying double over the course of a year to protect their employees’ eyes.
In uvex’s tests on the durability of the lens coatings safety spectacles were repeatedly washed to see how quickly their anti-fog coating deteriorated. The tests revealed that, assuming two washers per week through 44 weeks per year, users of the cheap spectacles would go through 22 pairs a year, while those using the more expensive ones would need 3.6 pairs a year because the anti-fog coating lasts up to and beyond 12 weeks. • Further information from Clair Stephens, uvex. Tel: 01252 731200. E-mail: c.stephens@uvex.co.uk | |
| ARCHAEOLOGISTS APPROVE THOR HELICAL FOR ‘PERFECT CASTLE’ REPAIR | |
| Thor Helical Remedial and Shire Piles were the choice of archaeologists and cadw, the Welsh Assembly’s heritage body, to carry out vital repairs and foundation reinforcement to the 14th Century Beaumaris Castle.
Experts chose Shire Piles for the minimal ground disturbance due to their low-displacement helix design. Thor Helical approved contractor Antares Construction set the piles to depths of 4-6 metres, giving compression capabilities exceeding 50kN, to make repairs to the original dock walls and support the foundations for a new revetment being built within the original moat. The Shire Pile has become the most specified system of its kind, with more than 5,000 installations across the UK. • Further information from Stuart Parker, Wykamol Group, Unit 3, Boran Court, Network 65 Business Park, Hapton, Burnley BB11 5TH. Tel: 0845 400 6666. Website: www.wykamol.com | |
| PIZZA HUT SLICES 85% OFF ELECTRICITY COSTS WITH ABB DRIVES | |
| An 85 per cent reduction in cooker hood electricity costs is being achieved at Pizza Hut’s Watford Dome branch following the installation of a 1.5kW and 3 kW ABB drive on the air extraction cooker hood system.
The new system, installed by Food Industry Technical (FIT), controls air supply and extraction by monitoring carbon dioxide (CO2) and temperature in the kitchen. The system also features a fail safe mechanism to enhance safety; in the event of a control cable being severed, or a sensor failing, the drives will automatically ramp up to 100 per cent and stay there until the fault is rectified, ensuring air supply remains at safe levels. • Further information from ABB Limited, Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BT. Tel: 01925 741111. E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Website: www.abb.co.uk/energy | |
| J & B HOPKINS ‘CATHEDRAL EFFECT’ HELPS SAVE ENERGY | |
| An innovative design and build company in Fareham, Hampshire, has released details of a highly energy efficient way of controlling the temperature within buildings using low temperature heating and high temperature cooling.
Mechanical and electrical contracting engineers, J & B Hopkins has used its headquarters in Concorde Way to demonstrate that this approach can be replicated in almost any commercial building. This enables the building to benefit from what Hopkins calls the ‘Cathedral Effect’ where heat from the occupants and electrical equipment is absorbed by the cooler ceiling and floor. The company is a Business Solutions Partner with Mitsubishi Electric and offers its services across the UK. • Further information from Paul Hopkins, J & B Hopkins, Tel: 01489 584706. E-mail: paul.hopkins@jbhopkins.co.uk | |
| PARTNERING – THE CROWN’S WAY | |
| Crown Aluminium’s position in the commercial fenestration market is balanced between major systems companies in the UK and the major building envelope contractor/installers. The company is founded on sound engineering principles and is recommended by major systems companies.
Schüco, Kawneer, Raynaers, Senior’s, Technal and many other systems companies products are available through Crown’s fabrication service. In addition to systems fabrication, engineering solutions for complex or large assemblies can also be accommodated using some of the latest CNC machines from Elumatec. A close working relationship between Crown and their customers ensures that the ‘partnering’ solution works effectively and efficiently, and ensures customers long term relationship with the company. • Further information from Roger Phillips, Crown Aluminium Limited, Stafford Mill, London Road, Thrupp, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 2AZ. Tel: 01453 753222. Fax: 01453 762218. E-mail: roger.phillips@crownaluminium.co.uk | |
| UPDATED CONVENTIONAL INTERFACE MODULE FOR ADDRESSABLE FIRE SYSTEMS | |
| System Sensor Europe has introduced an updated conventional zone interface module, the M210E-CZR, designed for use in addressable fire systems.
The module enables conventional intrinsically safe detectors to interface with an addressable system, a typical installation methodology in well-defined locations such as separate machinery rooms and boiler houses, where knowing the individual detector address is not necessarily important. In addition to this core functionality, when existing conventional systems are being replaced and upgraded with a new addressable system, the M210E-CZR allows an existing conventional zone to be interfaced to the addressable system, enabling it to be installed in stages without loss of protection. • Further information from Stuart Ball, System Sensor Europe, KAC House, Thornhill Road, North Moons Moat, Redditch B98 9ND. Tel: 01527 406700. Fax: 01527 406699. E-mail: sse.sales@systemsensor.com Website: www.systemsensoreurope.com | |
| MOVE ON UP TO DICKIES’ KODIAK BLUE’ | |
| Kodiak, the long established Canadian brand of footwear is now part of the Williamson-Dickie Group. Dickies is offering the ‘Kodiak Blue’ work boot as part of its newly extended range.
Unique in its anatomical design which allows the boot to work with the natural movement and shape of the foot ensuring a perfect fit and maximum, all-day comfort, the Kodiak Blue is constructed from premium nubuck waterproof leather with sealed seams, exclusive ‘claw design’ oil resistant rubber outsole and an aluminium toe cap and Lenzi mid-sole for lightweight underfoot protection. Available in Black and Taupe the Kodiak Blue 6” (Code Nos: 314045/314046) comes in sizes 7-13. • Further information from Dickies. Website: www.dickiesworkwear.com | |
| THE ADVANCE EVOLUTION | |
| As life evolves, all things adapt to the changing environment. Evolution is constant, delivering better and better results for the expended effort.
Like a finely honed wild animal built for performance, Advance – the new compact MVHR from Itho is meticulously tuned, high performance and with a Specific Fan Power (SFP) as low as 0.37 w/I/s, which easily outruns all of its competitors. Smaller and lighter than its big brother, the HRU ECO 4, the Advance is designed for installation on walls and ceilings. The Advance Plus gives the added benefits of automatic 100% Summer Bypass and an automatic Frost Protection device. • Further information from Itho Ventilation Ltd, 10 Faraday Court, First Avenue, Centrum 100, Burton on Trent DE14 2WX. Tel: 0845 250 8090. E-mail: info@itho.co.uk Website: www.itho.co.uk | |
| SUPERIOR EFFICIENCY AND COMPACT SIZE | |
| Alfa Laval’s new CB60 copper brazed plate heat exchanger manages to provide higher thermal efficiency within a smaller heat transfer area which adds up to an overall increase in performance capacity.
Since the new CB60 offers less pressure drop, power consumption is also reduced. A range of different plate patterns is available within the same compact shape, which means that the exchanger can be tailored for individual duties. But, since the CB60 retains the same basic interface as its predecessors, replacing old with new should present no problems. With an even more compact shape, the gasket-free exchangers can be squeezed into tight corners, even when space is limited. • Further information from Peter Rose, Alfa Laval Ltd, 7 Doman Road, Camberley GU15 3DN. Tel: 01276 63383. E-mail: general.uk@alfalaval.com Website: www.alfalaval.co.uk | |
| GREEN HOSPITAL INSTALLS ENER-G SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES | |
| The new-build Malvern Community Hospital will combine ground source heat pump and combined heat and power technologies from ENER-G (www.energ.co.uk)) for heating, cooling, hot water, and electricity generation – to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 15 tonnes per annum.
The ground source system involves 25 boreholes and two heat pumps with combined capacities of 125kW for both heating and cooling. The combined heat and power (CHP) system is a reciprocating gas engine rated at 33kW of electrical output that will generate 55kW of useful thermal output for the building and the ground loop for the heat pump. • Further information from ENER-G Combined Power Limited, ENER-G House, Daniel Adamson Road, Salford M50 1DT. Tel: 0161 745 7450. E-mail: chp@energ.co.uk Website: www.energ.co.uk | |
| TAPERED DESIGN SERVICE FROM PITTSBURGH CORNING | |
| FOAMGLAS® manufacturer Pittsburgh Corning now provides architects with a state-of-the-art Tapered Roof System service for flat roofs free of charge.
Designed to provide an effective and economical alternative to screed-to-fall systems, which result in increased time and labour, the Tapered Roof System saves both time and weight. The process is simple and practical for the architect, who will receive a budget estimate based on average thickness. Once the dimensional data and drainage outlets are confirmed, an outline plan is supplied to allow for more detailed quotations. On receipt of order, Pittsburgh Corning will issue detailed plans in both printed and CAD formats. • Further information from Pittsburgh Corning. Website: www.foamglas.co.uk | |
| ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES ALLOW NEW WAVE AIR CURTAINS WITH UP TO 40% ENERGY SAVING | |
| After one of the harshest UK winters and even cooler economic forecasts, good news arrives with the announcement that energy-saving EC (electrically-commutated) fans are available in the UK air curtain range from German market leader Tekadoor.
By using advanced control technologies to mimic the attributes of DC motors, EC fans need only 60% of the energy required by the standard AC fans used in most air curtains when running at medium speed. The 40% saving from the latest generation of Tekadoor fans also helps building operators meet the requirements of Part L Building Regulations. The EC fans are a core feature of Tekadoor’s new patent pending Coanvara range. • Further information from Phil Waldron, Tekadoor, 3A Woodgate, Loughborough. Tel: 01509 219635. E-mail: phil.waldron@tekadoor.co.uk Website: www.tekadoor.co.uk | |
| RECORD-BREAKING STEAM CAR OWES SUCCESS TO UK ENGINEERING EXPERTISE | |
| The team that broke the world land speed record for a steam-powered car visited Spirax Sarco in Cheltenham as part of its UK tour. As well as being one of the team’s main sponsors, Spirax Sarco played a key role in the success by providing expert engineering advice and high performance valves.
The car was fitted with two control valve and positioner sets, one for controlled venting of steam during boiler start up, and the second to control the flow of superheated steam to the turbine, in effect acting as the car’s ‘accelerator’. The two C-Series valves were selected for their high performance and reliability under extreme conditions. • Further information from Sharon Graves, Marketing Communications Manager, Spirax Sarco, Charlton House, Cheltenham GL53 8ER. Tel: 01242 521361. Fax: 01242 573342. E-mail: SharonGraves@SpiraxSarco.com | |
| ‘FIBRE TO THE HOME’ COURTESY OF TRATOS | |
| Cable manufacturer and supplier Tratos Ltd has launched a new series of FTTH optical cables designed for use inside buildings to connect individual properties.
Optimised for brownfield construction networks, the new FTTH cables run vertically from the bottom to the top of the building, and one or more of the cables in the bundle can be branched off at any point and connected to the end user. Less connectivity points reduce the installation time, thereby minimising disruption. The cables are flexible, even with the added protective reinforcement designed into the cable, allowing the horizontal drop cables to be easily pulled through existing ducts without any damage. • Further information from Tratos. Tel: 01246 858000. E-mail: sales@tratos.co.uk Website: www.tratos.co.uk | |
| ITHO SUPPORTS ECO PROFESSIONALS OF THE FUTURE | |
| Itho Ventilation is supporting Grantham College’s Renewable Energies Centre. The mews house has been renovated to create a ‘Renewable Energies House’ within the college campus providing a realistic ‘domestic’ environment in which to deliver training on the installation and maintenance of domestic renewable energy equipment.
The college installed Itho’s energy efficient HRU ventilation system with heat recovery, which offers a maximum efficiency of 91% and a Specific Fan Power (SFP) of 0.5 W/I/s. In addition to the Itho heat recovery, the property benefits from ground source, air source, under floor and solar hot water heating systems, as well as photovoltaic and rain water harvesting technologies. • Further information from Itho Ventilation Ltd, 10 Faraday Court, First Avenue, Centrum 100, Burton on Trent DE14 2WX. Tel: 0845 250 8090. E-mail: info@itho.co.uk Website: www.itho.co.uk | |
| THINKING OF SOLAR THERMAL? DON’T FORGET LIMESCALE | |
| ‘The Candlesticks’ in Ringwood, Cornwall, is a 15th century thatched cottage restaurant that also comprises an 8 bedroom en suite cottage style lodge to the rear. Following an inspection of the existing heating systems, it was decided it would benefit from solar thermal, and recommended that the current copper cylinders be replaced by open vented cylinders heated directly by two sets of Suntech Super Heat Pipe Evacuated Tube Collectors per cylinder.
Helping to maintain a limescale free system is the Hydroflow HS38, a patented water conditioning system by Hydropath Ltd, which prevents the build up of all limescale deposits by emitting randomly varying electric signals throughout the system. • Further information from Hydropath Holding Ltd, Unit F, Redfield Road, Nottingham NG7 2TR. Tel: 0115 986 9966. Website: www.hydropath.co.uk | |
| PRODECK FIXING USES A REAL SPITFIRE | |
| Prodeck-Fixing, leaders in the supply and installation of steel floor decking, is using the Spitfire P525L Stand-Up Cartridge Tool from Spit to install The ComFlor® 225 floor system from Corus Panels and Profiles. Since introducing the tool, it has significantly reduced installation time, firing up to 1000 fixings per day and has helped eliminate back strain for the Prodeck-Fixing team.
The P525L Stand Up Cartridge Tool is the quickest and most consistent method of attaching metal decking to structured steel. Robust and ergonomically designed, it provides an ambidextrous handle position for left-handed operators. Spitfire provides free on-site training and certification for their Gas and Cartridge tool fastening systems. • Further information from ITW Construction. Tel: 0800 652 9260. Web: www.itwcp.co.uk. Prodeck-Fixing Tel: 01278 780586. Website: www.prodeck-fixing.co.uk | |
| REDLAND OFFERS SOLAR PV TRAINING COURSE | |
| The Redland Training and Resource Centre will this year offer a brand new one-day course on how to install Redland’s roof integrated solar PV systems.
The course will give roofing contractors, merchants and solar panel installers the opportunity to install a range of PV panels with different types, as the Redland system has been specifically designed to integrate with eight of Redland’s most popular tile ranges. Attendees will also be given an overview of how the system works and how to site PV systems correctly. Courses run throughout the year for 4-8 people to cover both classroom and practical workshop activities. • Further information from Multisets Ltd, Suite 2B, 2nd Floor, Eastheath House, Eastheath Avenue, Wokingham RG41 2PR. Tel: 08708 702595. Fax: 08708 702596. E-mail: info@redland@monier.com Website: www.Redland.co.uk | |
| OVENTROP ENABLES A STREAMLINED PURCHASING ROUTE FOR ME CONTRACTOR | |
| Oventrop UK has supplied mechanical services valves for three different buildings as part of the Phase 3 redevelopment of Southampton City College. The Watts building was a complete strip out and refurbishment, whilst the Hub and Aspire buildings are new build and scheduled for completion in September.
Haydon Mechanical & Electrical chose to use Oventrop equipment throughout the three buildings to consolidate to one manufacturer and streamline their purchasing route. Included in the contract is a new energy centre housing a CHP plant and condensing boilers which serve the complete campus. As well as general boiler and boiler ancillary valves, Oventrop also supplied butterfly and ball isolation valves. • Further information from Stephen Walton, Oventrop UK Ltd, Oventrop House, Hatch Industrial Park, Greywell Road, Hatch, Basingstoke RG24 7NG. Tel: 01256 330441. E-mail: sales@oventrop.co.uk | |
| ZETA LOCK PROVIDES ROBUST PAVING FOR HEAVY TRAFFIC APPLICATION | |
| Brett Landscaping has introduced Zeta Lock, a 16-sided machine lay block paving unit specially designed for use in areas which need to tolerate heavy traffic loads, such as airports and ports. Zeta Lock offers a more durable solution in comparison to rectangular blocks as the elastic modulus of the 16-sided interlocking shaped block is significantly greater than the equivalent rectangular units. This serves to generate a stronger pavement surface interlock, a key benefit which translates into increased levels of structural integrity.
Half and closure blocks are also available to speed up installation, removing the need for onsite cutting and reducing waste. • Further information from Andrew Gill, Brett Landscaping, Sileby Road, Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire LE12 8LX. Tel: 0845 608 0577. E-mail: landscapinginfo@brett.co.uk Website: www.brett.co.uk/landscaping | |
| RENDERPLAS SPONSORS NEXT GENERATION OF PROFESSIONAL PLASTERERS | |
| Renderplas is sponsoring plastering students at Burnley College in Lancashire with a free supply of Renderplas PVCu beads for use in their training courses for the building trade. The College gets through more than a mile of PVCu beading each academic year provided by Renderplas as part of its support for high standards of training and development within the UK plastering trade.
Renderplas supplies the Plastering Department with a variety of PVCu rendering, plastering and dry lining beads, including Corner Beads for forming strong, straight external corners, Stop Beads for door and window surrounds to prevent cracking, as well as Skim Corner Beads and Stopping Beads for plasterboard. • Further information from Richard Harley, Renderplas Limited, Stourport Road, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 1BD. Tel: 01299 400340. Fax: 01299 400195. E-mail: enquiry@renderplas.co.uk Website: www.renderplas.co.uk | |
| SIMPLICITY AT ITS BEST WITH THE NEW WALL STARTER KIT FROM CATNIC | |
| Simple and effective describes the new Solo Wall Starter Kit from building materials specialist, Catnic. Providing a means of tying new masonry walls to existing walls, the Solo Wall Starter Kit improves on existing integral-tie designs by increasing the strength and rigidity of the fold down tie. The other advantage is that with the ties already attached, they are easy to carry around and less likely to be lost on site. The Solo kit contains all the necessary fixings for a single skin of masonry up to 2400mm high and is suitable for internal and external brick or block walls up to 250mm in thickness.
• Further information from Catnic, Pontypandy Industrial Estate, Caerphilly CF83 3GL. Tel: 029 2033 7900. E-mail: catnic.technical@corusgroup.com Website: www.catnic.com | |
| MARSTON’S PASSES AIR & SOUND TESTING WITH CHILTERN DYNAMICS | |
| Chiltern Dynamics has signed a contract with Carter Lauren Construction to carry out air tightness and sound testing as part of their design and build programme for brewers Marston’s plc. The first premises tested was The Honey Bee in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, and the building passed both tests with excellent results.
Carter Lauren selected Chiltern Dynamics as their test partner for the Marston’s programme, because it offered the right qualifications and has a nationwide team of test engineers, the Marston’s chain stretches from Newquay to Newcastle. Members of ATTMA and also BINT-registered, Chiltern Dynamics is IKAS-accredited to carry out both air tightness and sound testing. • Further information from Emma Peter, Chiltern Dynamics, Stocking Lane, Hughenden Valley, High Wycombe HP14 4ND. Tel: 01494 569800. E-mail: cd@chilternfire.co.uk Website: www.chilternfire.co.uk | |
| KNAUF AQUAPANEL PROVIDES FIVE STAR LUXURY INTERIOR | |
| Aquapanel tile backer from Knauf Drywall has a permanent booking at one of London’s premier luxury hotels, where it supports heavy marble tiles in just under 200 bathrooms in the five star accommodation currently under refurbishment. Beck Interiors, main contractor for the refurbishment, use the 12.5mm fibre cement board after consultation with Knauf Drywall and the design team. Renowned for its immense strength, even when wet, Knauf Aquapanel was developed as a drywall solution for wet areas, and is the best safeguard against tile adhesion failures in drywall constructions.
Knauf Aquapanel is ready keyed for tiling, it can also be curved, or finished with Aquapanel Q4 Finish Plaster. • Further information from Janice Challinor, Trilobyte Services Ltd, Imex Centre, Radway Green, Crewe CW2 5PR. Tel: 01270 824000. E-mail: janice@trilobye.co.uk | |
| HEIGHT OF ACHIEVEMENT | |
| Signbox, the architectural sign specialist, has completed a highly complex and technically demanding project to manufacture and install a substantial corporate logo to the north elevation of Northern Trust’s European headquarters building in Canary Wharf, London.
The project involved installing a detailed symbol and individually fabricated stainless steel letters which make up Northern Trust’s logo. What made the project so demanding technically is that there proved to be limited scope to secure the sign on top of the building. The logo is not passive, it is illuminated by twin circuits of LEDs, which are controlled by photocells and a timer, all adding to the complexity of the assignment. • Further information from Signbox, 3 Egham Business Village, Crabtree Road, Egham TW20 8RB. Tel: 01784 438688. E-mail: sales@signbox.co.uk Website: www.signbox.co.uk | |
| RELIEF FOR WEYMOUTH WITH SIKA | |
| Sika concrete admixtures are in the mix for all the concrete being supplied by Hanson Concrete to the A354 Weymouth relief road. The 10km scheme is being constructed by Skansa, together with design partners Owen Williams, for Dorset County Council. The new road will be a predominately two lane single carriage-way with areas accommodating climber lanes where appropriate.
With nine bridges on this project, the majority of the concrete is being pumped. To ensure good delivery through the line and avoid blockages, Hanson Concrete is supplying a concrete mix incorporating Sika® Viscocrete® superplasticising admixture. This ensures that the concrete has a high consistence without segregation together with a strength increase. • Further information from Mike Lewis, Sika Limited, Watchmead, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1BQ. Tel: 01296 392157. E-mail: concrete@uk.sika.com Website: www.sika.co.uk | |
| HISTORIC TURNTABLE BACK ON LINE WITH HELP FROM TECROC | |
| Peak Rail has restored the turntable at Rowsley South Station near Matlock, with three specialist products from the TECROC range.
They used cartridge-applied polyester-based TecGrip CAS high strength resin anchor material for fixing the starter bars to areas requiring new concrete. TECROC’s E33 epoxy grout was used to provide support for the main central pivot of the turntable and to grout each of the base plates supporting the ring rail which runs around the circumference of the turntable well. TECROC Dry Pack C, a general purpose packing mortar was used to fix the blue paviours in the bottom of the turntable well and to prevent weed growth. • Further information from Mark Shonrock, TECROC Products Ltd, Holly Lane Industrial Estate, Atherstone, Warwickshire CV9 2RN. Tel: 01827 711330. E-mail: enquiries@tecroc.co.uk Website: www.tecroc.co.uk | |
| S&A DEVELOPMENTS LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE STABLE DOOR | |
| Long-standing VEKA fabricator S&A Developments in Darwen has developed a striking door which combines a range of innovative features.
The team at S&A have incorporated VEKA’s technically-advanced Tilt and Turn window into the top of their stable door, bringing a multitude of benefits to this unusual entrance. Having a Tilt and Turn in the top of the door means there are more opening combinations. As well as opening in the conventional manner, it can also be tilted open from the bottom edge while remaining locked. This offers ventilation without encouraging intruders. The energy-efficient door and window combination can help significantly reduce heating bills and minimise outdoor noise. • Further information from VEKA Plc. Tel: 01282 716611. E-mail: salesenquiry@veka.com Website: www.vekauk.com | |
| PROTECTING AGAINST TRIPS AND SLIPS | |
| Arco, the UK’s leading safety company, is offering an innovative surface testing service to its customers using the Health and Safety Executive’s SAT Site Assessment tool.
Arco will provide this service through the use of a new surface measuring device that works by calculating the flooring substrate and providing a profile on the floor using a small probe that takes ten readings. By altering some of the answers to the questions, such as type of footwear, it will show a different risk factor illustrating to construction businesses the effectiveness of sufficient slip-resistant footwear. A range of surfaces including tiles, steps, linoleum, marble and wood can be assessed. • Further information from Paul Ness, Arco, Waverley Street, Hull HU1 2SH. Tel: 01482 222522. E-mail: sales@arco.co.uk Website: www.arco.co.uk | |
| AIRCRETE IS THE CHOICE FOR COST-EFFECTIVE BUILDING | |
| H+H is using two detailed cost-comparison exercises to prove that price need never be a barrier to specifying aircrete for house building.
In a recent public sector housing development Wates Living Space wanted to use aircrete, but was concerned expenditure could rise as a result. A detailed cost comparison showed that, contrary to expectations, a £20,000 saving could be made using aircrete with the H+H Rå Build method of construction. Wates undertook this comparison having seen results from research carried out by construction and property consultants calfordseaden. This demonstrated that anywhere up to an 8% saving is achievable, compared with comparable designs built with timber frame or SIPS. • Further information from Marketing Department, H+H UK Ltd, Celcon House, Ightham, Sevenoaks TN15 9HZ. Tel: 01732 880520. Fax: 01732 880531. E-mail: marketing@hhcelcon.co.uk | |
| BILCO HAS SAFETY COVERED AT LANGLEY ACADEMY | |
| The main focus of the new Langley Academy in Slough, alongside providing outstanding full time education, is to ensure an environmentally sound building and the health and safety of all those within it.
These two features come together in the academy’s plant room where a biomass boiler burns locally-sourced woodchips, delivered to the site by lorry on a regular basis. Safe access to the boiler for fuel deliveries posed a challenge and Bilco was brought on board to develop a solution. Bilco provided two JD-ALH20 floor doors which enabled easy delivery of woodchips while keeping the area safe for students and visitors. • Further information from Bilco. E-mail: bilcouk@bilco.com | |
| WRITE OFF THE COST OF HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATION | |
| The Lossnay heat recovery ventilation system from Mitsubishi Electric has been re-approved and re-listed on the Government’s Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) scheme making energy efficiency more financially achievable.
Developed and refined for the past 30 years, the Lossnay system has perfected the recovery of waste energy. The unit reduces overall energy costs by extracting stale air and then recovering its heating or cooling energy to either to warm or cool the incoming fresh air. By utilising this recovery energy, the Lossnay system can also save up to 30 per cent on initial capital costs of the heating and cooling plant. • Further information from Mitsubishi Electric. Tel: 01707 282880. E-mail: air.conditioning@meuk.mee.com E-mail: heating@meuk.mee.com | |
| BLUE REEF-IMAX CHILLER INSTALLATION USES DOCK-WATER FOR COOLING IN BRISTOL | |
| A pioneering cooling system that harnesses dock-water is up and running at Blue Reef Aquarium and IMAX 3D Cinema in Bristol.
The 500kW plant uses two Turbocar compressors to produce chilled water for cooling the salt-water tanks that house Blue Reef’s collection of fish and marine animals. The chiller is also used to cool the lamps for the centre’s high power IMAX projector, used for under-water features which take visitors on a 3D journey beneath the waves. Dock water is used to help condense refrigerant, boosting the plant’s efficiency and reducing running costs. Water is drawn into the plant room from the nearby dock by two giant pumps. • Further information from Larry Barlow, Cool-Therm (UK) Ltd, Unit 5, Trubodys Yard, 121 London Road, Bridgeyate, Bristol BS30 5NA. Tel: 01179 610006. E-mail: larry.barlow@cooltherm.co.uk Website: www.cooltherm.co.uk | |
| ANNOUNCING ALL NEW INTAMIX | |
| Anti-scald manufacturer Intatec has introduced a new version of the renowned Intamix TMV2 and TMV3 thermostatic mixing valve, featuring an improved cartridge designed to reduce effects of scaling more efficiently.
With such a wide variety of G3-compliant products, the new IntaMix range is the most comprehensive offering of thermostatic valves for any domestic, commercial or industrial application. In addition to the standard T pattern mixing valve are MX and MS versions, fitted with service valves, and a version created especially for low pressure baths. Intatec supports its products with technical expertise online and by telephone, where engineers are able to assist with any application, specification or installation queries. • Further information from Cynthia Fisher, Intatec Ltd, Airfield Industrial Estate, Hixon, Staffordshire ST18 0PF. Tel: 0870 220 9666. E-mail: sales@intatec.co.uk Website: www.intatec.co.uk | |
| THE DuPont BUILDING INNOVATIONS EFFENERGY PROJECT RECOGNISED BY EUROPEAN COMMISSION | |
| The Effenergy project of DuPont Building Innovations has been selected as one of the Best LIFE Environment projects by the European Commission.
Dupont™ Energain® works by employing a phase change compound to absorb heat at a melt point of 22ºC, and release it back when the interior temperature drops to 18ºC. Energy consumption can be reduced and heating costs and air-conditioning costs can be saved. DuPont™ Tyvek® Enercor® is a metallised vapour open membrane with CE certification. Thanks to its metallised low emissivity surface, it blocks radiant heat in summer and reduces heat losses in winter, thus significantly contributing to energy performance and interior comfort. • Further information from Julie Roberts, DuPont Tyvek, Hither Green Trading Estate, Clevedon BS21 6XU. Tel: 01275 879770. E-mail: Julie.roberts@gbr.dupont.com | |
| MEMCO SUPPLIES ITS ELITE ELEVATOR SAFETY SYSTEMS TO INDIRA GANDHI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IN NEW DELHI | |
| Memco’s Elite elevator safety systems are to be installed at Indira Gandhi International Airport’s Terminal 3 in New Delhi, India. They will be fitted to elevator doors supplied by ThyssenKrupp elevator.
Memco’s Elite safety system features two independent detection systems. The first is a light curtain of infra-red beams criss-crossing the elevator car’s doors; the second a 3D proximity detection system in the landing zone. Any person or large object breaking the light curtain or detected within the 3D zone triggers a system which automatically reopens the elevator doors. The Elite features the latest software as standard, and can be fitted to virtually any new or existing elevators. • Further information from Memco Limited, Clyde House, Reform Road, Maidenhead SL6 8BY. Tel: 01628 540161. Fax: 01628 621947. E-mail: sales@memco.co.uk Website: www.memco.co.uk | |
| NEW ISO-CHEMIE SEALING STRIP COVER TIMBER FRAMED BUILDINGS | |
| Improved moisture resistance, air tightness and thermal insulation for timber-framed buildings is provided by the new ISO-Connect HB-Band sealing strip from ISO-Chemie.
It provides an effective, durable and easy-to-install permanent horizontal seal to prevent moisture transfer between wall sole plates and foundation walls or slabs in timber framed buildings. A variety of finishes are available, a basic version, two impregnated foam strips and two impregnated strips with two butyl self-adhesive strips, together with a choice of width sizes and comes in 25m roll lengths. The weather resistant and UV stable base strip provides a year round seal, impermeable to water vapour and capable of performing in extreme temperatures. • Further information from Peter Thompson, Iso-Chemie, Wheldon House, Front Street, Ebchester Co Durham DH8 0PJ. Tel: 01207 566874. E-mail: p.thompson@iso-chemie.co.uk Website: www.iso-chemie.co.uk | |
| CASELLA CEL’s dBadge NOISE DOSIMETERS BENEFIT FROM AN IMPROVED DESIGN AND A NEW, LOW-COST, MODEL | |
| Casella CEL has redeveloped its popular lightweight and cable-free dBadge noise dosimeter to increase its robustness, allowing the dosimeter to be used in the harshest of environments with absolute reliability.
The redeveloped dBadge now features rubber over-moulding on the case to further increase toughness, and provide protection from the water and dust prevalent in mines or similar environments. Casella has also added a new model to its noise dosimetry range, the CEL-350L dBadge ‘Lite’, which offers simple functionality at a very affordable price. The ‘Lite’ measures all the same occupational noise parameters as the original dBadge except for the time history of exposure to noise levels. • Further information from Tim Turney, Casella CEL. Tel: 01234 844100. E-mail: timturney@casellameasurement.com | |
| JS AIR CURTAINS AT HOPE UNI | |
| JS Air Curtains has supplied a Rotowind air curtain for a revolving door at the Hope University in Liverpool. The air curtain is helping to maintain internal temperatures, keeping students and staff warm at the new Registry Building at the Hope Park Campus.
Although revolving doors offer some protection from the outside elements, they also act like a slow moving fan, dragging in cold air. An air curtain following the contours of the internal curve of a doorway prevents this cold air from entering the building. The Rotowind can be supplied in any RAL colour or stainless steel and is suitable for doorways up to 3.5m high. • Further information from Mike Verney, J S Air Curtains, Artex Avenue, Rustington, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN16 3LN. Tel: 01903 858656. Fax: 01903 850345. E-mail: sales@jsaircurtains.com Website: www.jsaircurtains.com | |
| SUPERPLUS ANCHOR GOES SEISMIC | |
| Simpson Strong-Tie/LIEBIG has announced that the easy to install SUPERPLUS anchor has been tested in accordance to ACI 355.2 and has passed the Seismic Qualification for tension tests with no performance reduction.
The SUPERPLUS self undercut anchor is already recognised under European Technical Approval ETA-01/0011 and holds the ETA Option 1 approval for cracked and non cracked concrete. However, since there is no seismic tension qualification method defined in the European Technical Guideline (ETAG 001), Simpson Strong-Tie/LIEBIG had both embedment depths of the M12 and the M16 SUPERPLUS tested under the seismic tension provisions of American Concrete Institute’s ACI 355.2 – Qualification of Post-Installed Mechanical Anchors and Commentary. • Further information from Simpson Strong-Tie, Winchester Road, Cardinal Point, Tamworth B78 3HG. Tel: 01827 255600. Website: www.strongtie.com | |
| SDS WINS STORMWATER MANAGEMENT OF M25 | |
| Surface water and stormwater management has become a pre-requisite for most construction projects and, on the back of its expertise in this area, SDS Ltd has recently won a £6 million contract to provide bespoke attenuation tanks on the M25 widening scheme.
Main contracting joint venture Skanska Balfour Beatty worked closely with SDS which came up with innovative concepts for dealing with the problems of surface water and stormwater and won the project based on the final design solution. SDS has high environmental credentials. Its GEOlight stormwater attenuation tanks are manufactured in the UK entirely from post-consumer PVC waste, normally destined for landfill, which reduces the carbon footprint. • Further information from SDS Ltd. Tel: 01934 757303. E-mail: info@sdslimited.com Website: www.sdslimited.com | |
| SANDWELL’S NEW Q3 ACADEMY FEATURES OVENTROP VALVES FOR HEATING CONTROL | |
| Oventrop valves were selected by Interserve Engineering Services for the heating services at the new £30 million Q3 Academy in Sandwell, West Midlands, to simplify the purchasing procedure and facilitate any subsequent servicing. Oventrop equipment was chosen for cost, quality and fitness for purpose. Included in the selection of valves were 150 AV6 TRVs and matching Combi 4 lockshield valves.
The heating system installed in the three-storey building is served from a ground floor plant room housing three gas-fired condensing boilers. All boiler and ancillary valves are from Oventrop, as are all the commissioning sets, double regulating, isolation valves and strainers used throughout the LPHW and DHW systems. • Further information from Stephen Walton, Oventrop UK Ltd, Oventrop House, Hatch Industrial Park, Greywell Road, Hatch RG24 7NG. Tel: 01256 330441. E-mail: sales@oventrop.co.uk | |
| PROMAT PROVIDES ROBUST FIRE PROTECTION SOLUTIONS FOR LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT | |
| Promat has supplied fire protection solutions for the structural steel components of a retail and residential development in Wales. Over 150,000 m2 of Promat PROMATECT® -250 non-combustible board and Promat TD Board® mineral fibre board have been installed on the landmark St David’s 2 extension project in the centre of Cardiff.
Much of the material used was manufactured locally, reducing the environmental impact of the supply chain. Promat is the only manufacturer able to offer a full range of board and spray fire protection solutions for structural steel applications. All Promat products and systems have been tested and independently accredited to a variety of nationally and internationally recognised standards. • Further information from Promat UK Ltd, The Sterling Centre, Eastern Road, Bracknell RG12 2TD. Tel: 01344 381350. Website: www.promat.co.uk | |
| CASELLA’S CEL’S TUFF RANGE GAINS ATEX APPROVAL | |
| Casella CEL’s TUFF range of personal Air Sampling Pumps, the most rugged pump for use in harsh monitoring environments, has gained ATEX (and IECEx) Intrinsically Safe approval for use in flammable atmospheres. This means the TUFF pumps can be used at hazardous plants and production sites where there is a potential risk of explosive dust or gas.
Designed to European IP54 standards, the TUFF also differs from ordinary handheld pumps in that it is the only Personal Air Sampling Pump in the world to receive certification to ‘M1’ classification required for mining applications, allowing it to be safely used underground without the need for a hot work permit. • Further information from Tim Turney, Casella CEL, Tel: 01234 844100. E-mail: timturney@casellameasurement.com | |
| PILKINGTON CERVOGLASS™ BRANCHES OUT | |
| Pilkington has built on the success of the manufacture and sales of Pilkington Cervoglass™ conservatory roof IGUs at Pilkington Aintree by opening an additional manufacturing facility in the South of England.
The new facility, based in Basingstoke, will be equipped with a modern IGU line, gas filling and toughening plant and will produce the full range of the popular Pilkington Cervoglass™ IGUs, allowing Pilkington to double its current capacity. This new facility contributes to a seamless expansion of the business, whilst customers can continue their usual order process through Pilkington Aintree. They will however benefit from an increased level of quality, service and reliability from the expansion. • Further information from Pilkington Building Products – UK, Ref: 0232, Unit 1A, Wirral Business Park, Arrowe Brook Road, Upton, Merseyside CH49 1QZ. Tel: 01744 692000. Fax: 01744 692880. E-mail: Pilkington@respond.uk.com Website: www.pilkington.co.uk/cervoglass | |
| THE FASTEST WALL TIE IN THE MARKET TODAY | |
| The CD Tie from Thor Helical Remedial offers rapid cavity wall tie replacement & brick pinning.
The self tapping 9mm stainless steel replacement cavity wall tie screws in to brick, masonry or concrete when hammered into pilot holes (circa 6mm) using the impact action of a hammer drill. Helical brick ties are suitable for remedial use in all wall types without exerting expansive stress on the masonry. The unique driving configuration of the Thor Helical CD Tie delivers a fast, easy and reliable remedy for cavity tie failure. This patented Helical Wall Tie also has European CE Mark Approval. • Further information from Thor Herlical Remedial, part of the Wykamol Group, Unit 3 Boran Court, Network 65 Business Park, Hapton, Burnley BB11 5TH. Tel: 0845 400 6666. E-mail: salesdepartment@wykamol.com Website: www.thorremedial.com | |