Net zero firm devises way to save NHS millions in energy bills see pages 18-19
On the cover: Contents
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Mainmark Recognised for Work on Tallest Purpose-Built Student Accommodation
UK ground engineering specialist Mainmark has been shortlisted for a major industry accolade.
Mainmark has been shortlisted for the “UK Project with a Geotechnical Value of up to £500K’’ category which recognises leading projects with a focus on innovation, quality, sustainability, health and safety and value engineering.
The annual Ground Engineering Awards brings together leaders in the industry to celebrate major achievements. This year’s awards will be held at a prestigious event on 19 June at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.
Mainmark’s shortlisted project highlights its work on the construction of the 43-storey tower, Arena Point in Leeds, set to be the world’s tallest purpose-built student accommodation. The £95m project on Merrion Way features over 700 bedrooms, with a mix of studio apartments and shared cluster flats, replacing a previously underutilised office block.
The construction was halted due to unstable ground, and was only able to progress thanks to the expertise of Mainmark who successfully strengthened the ground prior to excavation using its innovative Teretek® geopolymer resin injection technology. Mainmark’s Teretek engineered resin injection technology solution was chosen to strengthen the ground in a controlled and timely manner. With the proximity of nearby buildings, infrastructure and the restricted site traditional piling and ground anchor techniques were unsuitable for the specific challenge.
Teretek® technology, developed by Mainmark, was injected at high-density levels to fill any voids, compact the ground and bind together large cobbles and brick fragments. It was completed in just 10 days, without the need for heavy plant, allowing the construction to continue as scheduled.
Tom Kavanagh, General Manager at Mainmark UK, comments: “We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted for this award, it showcases the passion, skill and expertise that our team puts into developing new solutions, allowing the sector to better tackle site specific challenges.
“We take great pride in not just meeting but exceeding our clients’ expectations and enabling the Arena Point construction to progress as planned is just one great example of where are dedication to formulating new solutions has been a success.”
Mainmark has previously been recognised for its work
with the post-earthquake resurrection of the Christchurch Art Gallery which won International Project of the Year. Chosen from seven high calibre of finalists, the re-levelling of the gallery was a landmark project for Mainmark and the industry, setting a new benchmark in the earthquake remediation for large scale buildings.
Mainmark Ground Engineering (UK) Ltd is a subsidiary of the Mainmark group of companies established in 2016, with its headquarters located in Milton Keynes. For over three decades, Mainmark has established itself as a pioneering force in the industry, leading the way in developing and delivering cutting-edge ground improvement solutions. With an impressive track record of over 200,000 successful projects across Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the UK, Mainmark has earned international recognition as an award-winning and leading ground engineer.
Atlas wins contract with EPAM
Atlas has been appointed to provide cleaning and support services to EPAM, the property asset management specialists. The contract covers 27 commercial sites, with 17 in London, and includes daily cleaning, window cleaning, specialist periodic cleaning and pest control. EPAM says its intelligent property management model and personal approach ensures consistent delivery of quality and value, and it continuously looks to improve its service
to exceed the expectations of both clients and building occupiers. Atlas will play a key role in supporting this drive, with the provision of high quality and peoplefocused cleaning services.
Ed Bolton, Managing Director of Atlas Cleaning, said:
“We are delighted to be supporting EPAM across their property management portfolio. As well as ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness, we are already implementing new equipment and processes
that boost productivity, add value, and deliver sustainability improvements.”
Matthew Potter, Director/ Head of Facilities Management at EPAM FM Services, commented:
“We are very pleased to have appointed Atlas as our cleaning services partner. Consistent, high standards of cleaning and customer service are essential to the satisfaction of our clients, and we look forward to building a strong partnership with the Atlas team.”
Building & Facilities Management magazine covers all of the major FM areas of interest within the workplace and the built environment.
To subscribe to BFM magazine, please visit www.bfmmagazine.co.uk
Hygiene Pro Clean opens a new StripOut Services division
Hygiene Pro Clean, the Coventry-based provider of deep cleaning and decontamination solutions, has established a StripOut Services business unit, to support homeowners, builders and interior fit-out contractors carrying out remediation, repairs and refurbishment contracts.
This new service expands on Hygiene Pro Clean’s deep cleaning and decontamination services to include expert removal of fixtures, fittings, floors, and partitions from commercial and residential buildings undergoing repairs and renovations.
Operating across the Midlands and surrounding counties, Hygiene Pro Clean’s Strip-Out Services complement the company’s existing portfolio
and support the fit-out, repair, and refurbishment sector. Specialising in the meticulous removal of non-structural elements, the team prepares interiors for renovation without compromising the primary structure.
“Our expansion into stripout services represents a natural evolution for Hygiene Pro Clean,” said Jamie Borgeat, Managing Director of Hygiene Pro Clean. “With our expertise in deep cleaning and decontamination, we are well-positioned to provide comprehensive solutions that encompass the entire property repair, maintenance and refurbishment process.”
Hygiene Pro Clean’s stripout operations cover a wide range of tasks, including the removal of kitchens,
bathrooms, carpets, ceiling tiles, floors, rendering, plaster, and partition walls. Whether acting as the principal contractor or subcontractor, the company’s skilled teams handle projects safely and with precision and efficiency.
With a proven track record in dealing with dilapidations, flood and fire-damaged buildings, including those with contaminated materials, Hygiene Pro Clean brings unmatched expertise to every project. Clients can trust the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional results while prioritising safety and sustainability.
For more information about Hygiene Pro Clean’s Strip-Out Services, please visit https:// www.hygieneproclean.com or contact 0800 0248090.
BW: Workplace Experts transforms government heritage estate offices
Two government listed heritage buildings have undergone a full strip out and CAT B office floor refurbishments by BW: Workplace Experts.
The recently completed scheme for the Government Property Agency (GPA) has revitalised c11,000m2 of office space in a prime location in the heart of Westminster. Working closely with design and build practice Engineroom, and building services consultancy Watkins Payne, BW: Workplace Experts has delivered a solution that meets heritage constraints, while creating a sustainable and inspiring workspace for civil servants.
The works include fit outs of new meeting rooms, workspaces, comms rooms, WCs and showers. Business lounges and an event space have been installed, as well as a new double reception, feature staircase, WUDU/ablution room and fire command centre. A new business event space for 200 people, and a basement with changing rooms and cycle stores were also created.
Both buildings had full façade cleaning, restoration and lift refurbishments, plus the installation of new MEPH systems including main plant and plantrooms across the floors and roof. Both buildings have been connected to a District Heating Network to increase energy efficiency.
Sympathetic design was achieved by using chimneys to conceal ductwork and services, which also served to minimise impact on the protected building layout. BW: Workplace Experts used GPR scanning to validate designs without physical damage and provided clear method statements with visuals
to speed up the listed building consent approval process. Throughout the refurbishment, BW: Workplace Experts collaborated with GPA and consultant teams to ensure a smooth handover and transition. Completed workspaces were used as soon as they were constructed while other floors were delivered. This allowed for ongoing feedback and any necessary adjustments to be made before final handover.
Pat Cross, Stakeholder Manager at Government Property Agency, commented: “We are thankful to BW for the exemplary work completed on these heritage buildings. It was important for GPA to collaborate with experts who understood our requirements and could navigate the challenges presented when working with listed properties. The BW team were a joy to work with and went above and beyond to find solutions, exceeding expectations. We are thrilled with the final result of the fit out and it was truly
a pleasure to work so closely with and collaboratively with Will and the whole BW team.”
William McDonagh, Construction Director at BW: Workplace Experts, commented: “Our work has helped to breathe new life into these government heritage buildings while aligning with the GPA’s end goal to achieve a more sustainable and inspiring workspace. We worked closely with English Heritage to meet the exacting standards of the project, using our extensive expertise working with listed properties. In collaboration, we were able to find a solution and secure approval which prior to our involvement had not been successfully achieved. We also successfully optimised negotiations with our supply chain, locking in materials prices before cost increases and sourcing alternative highquality manufacturers and like-for-like materials. This new workspace is a wonderful environment with all the facilities GPA required to help boost the heritage estate and civil service team satisfaction levels.”
Energy with AKCP Sensors
Contact us for a FREE site survey or online demo to learn more about our industry leading environmental monitoring solutions and how they can help to reduce your energy costs. Scalable, with Ethernet and WiFi connectivity, over 20 sensor options for temperature, humidity, water leakage, airflow, AC and DC power, a 5 year warranty and automated email and SMS text alerts.
A Fresh approach to Outsourcing calls to Leverage Scalability
In the dynamic landscape of facilities management (FM), the ability to swiftly adapt to changing demands is key to success. For FM helpdesk managers looking to outsource calls, scalability emerges as a key driver in the decision making process, offering many benefits that resonate across operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and bottom-line impact.
This is where Business Process Outsourcers (BPO) like Lemon Contact Centre excel, providing the scalability of agents that seamlessly meet your fluctuating needs and empower FM decision makers to navigate the ebb and flow of service requests with agility and precision.
Using state of the art technology and by leveraging their ‘real people, real conversations’ ethos, Lemon are able to expertly provide you with the additional resource that you need in order to grow your business. Operating around the clock, Lemon’s services can be utilised purely out-of-hours or as a full turnkey solution. This flexibility will ensure that your FM helpdesks are always adequately equipped to handle varying call volumes, irrespective of peaks or troughs in demand.
With Lemon as your trusted contact centre you can say goodbye to both overstaffing, causing unnecessary expenses, and understaffing, compromising on the allimportant service quality. When
outsourcing and faced with a sudden surge in requests or a lull in activity, FM helpdesks can seamlessly and efficiently scale their operations, ensuring optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
By partnering with Lemon, a leading contact centre in the FM industry, you will
have the commitment of a 24-7-365 service, seamless communication and insightful reporting tools - the key to opening up fresh opportunities for generating revenue and expanding market reach.
Lemoncontactcentre.co.uk 0800 612 7595
When a building is finished, that’s just the beginning
ASSESSING AND PURIFYING
Our services ensure the safe management of water systems, with protection from Legionella and compliance with the necessary regulations.
PTSG is the UK’s leading supplier of specialist services to ensure buildings remain safe, compliant, clean and maintained – in ALL areas.
PTSG operates five independent business divisions, delivering a full portfolio of specialist services for buildings in all sectors. This ensures they remain in the same first-class condition as when they were built – from ancient monuments to iconic skyscrapers.
Ask us about what we o er in all five of our business divisions.
G4S Partners with Duress to Revolutionise Frontline Worker Safety
G4S, the global leader in security solutions, proudly announces an exclusive partnership with Australian safety technology company Duress.com. This collaboration aims to enhance the protection of frontline staff across multiple sectors, utilising Duress’s cutting-edge wearable devices. This partnership is set to elevate safety standards and provide unparalleled support to workers facing increasing threats of violence and anti-social behaviour by connecting frontline staff and security officers.
Transformative Technology for Frontline Worker Protection. Duress has developed an advanced suite of bodyworn devices designed to provide real-time support and protection for frontline workers. The technology includes livestreaming video, AI capabilities, emergency service integration and full communication functions, ensuring that help is always just a click away. The three flagship products in this range - Phoenix, Falcon, and Eagle - offer versatile and robust solutions tailored to meet diverse operational needs.
Phoenix: Compact and Powerful
At the size and weight of a credit card, Phoenix is the most advanced safety device ever designed. Users simply click to discreetly alert security teams, or stream video through to the 24/7 Operations centre where a response can be coordinated. Phoenix also includes slip, trip, and fall detection, mass messaging, and boasts a two year rechargeable battery.
Falcon: Versatility and Immediate Response
Similar in size to a smart
watch, the Falcon can be worn as a watch or pendant, and when activated live-streams video, audio, and location data to the security team, enabling rapid and informed responses. Additional features include a push-totalk function and AI-driven policy lookup, enhancing both communication and procedural compliance during incidents.
Eagle: FullFeatured and Robust
The Eagle device stands out with its fully-featured design, delivering live video and audio feeds to all connected security personnel during emergencies. Its long battery life, easy-to-use clip options, and integration with other Duress devices ensure seamless operation. The Eagle also supports comprehensive incident reporting and data analysis, aiding in both immediate response and long-term safety planning
support for employees in retail, healthcare, events, and beyond.
A Commitment to Safety
G4S’s collaboration with Duress underscores a shared commitment to safeguarding frontline workers, doubling down on the G4S vision of connected security programmes. The partnership leverages Duress’s expertise in wearable technology and G4S’s extensive security infrastructure, ushering in a new era of enhanced protection and
Comments David Munnery of G4S: “While many of our security officers are already connected via body-worn devices to the broader team and remote monitoring centres, this new partnership with Duress will equip G4S security teams with real-time incident visuals and sound, as well as many other features, which will further advance the effectiveness of our security officers.”
For more information on the Duress safety technology available for the first time in the UK visit [Duress](https:// www.duress.com) and [G4S] (https://www.g4s.com).
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Cube Glass secures £250,000 worth of new contract wins in the Highlands and Islands
Leading precision manufacturer Cube Glass has secured a series of new contract wins in the North of Scotland totalling £250,000.
The Cumbernauld-based company, which manufactures and installs aluminium doors and windows, is set to undertake a curtain walling installation at Castletown Distillery in Thurso and a similar installation at the new ferry terminal at Uig on the Isle of Skye.
In addition, Cube Glass will undertake projects to install a mix of double glazed silicon jointed glazed screens and external doors at Old Clyne School in Brora, a 12m wide sliding door screen with windows utilising electrically charged smart glass for a private home in Dornoch, and a brace of bi-folding door projects in Inverness.
Gary Thorn, Founder and
Managing Director of Cube Glass, said: “These are a mixture of new contracts which showcase our versatility and fabrication skills and we have installation dates for each of them reaching into mid-Summer.
“We have a strong record
of undertaking successful project in the Highlands and Islands and our team of installers always look forward to their journey northwards.
“We consistently stress the benefits of natural daylight on mental health and recognise
how much better we all feel when we are subjected to more natural daylight within a secure and ecologically sustainable environment.”
Cube Glass enjoys fruitful relationships with a number of leading specialist suppliers including Portugal-based Panoramah, which makes a unique range of minimalist sliding doors and curtain walling with ultra-thin sightlines, high-end French design and engineering specialist Bel’M. And most recently Glazing Vision rooflights which designs and manufactures innovative architectural glass rooflights for customers across the globe. Its valued supplier relationships also include those with industry-recognised specialists such as Senior Architectural Systems, Metal Technology and Schüco.
The Cumbernauld-based business has pushed its turnover to a record £4.5m in the year to October 2023, up from £3.25m in the previous year. It now hopes to consolidate future revenues around this level.
Cube Glass, which was
established in 2004, focuses on curtain walling, doors, windows, glass roofing systems and shop fronts as well as bullet, bomb and blast resistant glass. It supplies sectors including education, health, industrial, social care, commercial property and residential homes.
HOZO Design launches M-Cube, A Modular Laser Measure
The premier modular laser measure includes a laser measure, smart planner, bilateral laser+ and smart roller as interchange modules to cater to diverse requirements and adapt to their evolving measurement needs.
Following on from its successful Kickstarter campaign, HOZO Design, a leading innovator in design tools and accessories, is thrilled to
announce the highly anticipated official launch of M-Cube.
More than just a measuring tool, M-Cube represents the future of measuring experience
where users have the luxury to switch between four modules with ease, ensuring adaptability across various scenarios and tasks. The HOZO M-Cube
is available from the HOZO website from $89/£72 or /$395/£318 for the full kit. It will also be available on Amazon and Amazon UK from April.
Addrtionally, the HOZO Design M-Cube has earned prestigious recognition by securing the coveted iF Design Award in 2024, a testament to its outstanding design and innovation. The M-Cube’s achievement is prominently highlighted in the iF Design Award winner ranking for 2024, emphasizing its excellence in the competitive design landscape.
Regardless of purchasing individual modules or the comprehensive set, the M-Cube guarantees unparalleled accuracy. With its rapid laser speed, the M-Cube sets itself apart, offering top-notch performance at a surprisingly affordable price point. Key features include a 50M/164ft Single Laser for utmost precision and a high-speed Multi-functional Laser with a 10FPs rate. Designed with user convenience in mind, it boasts a user-friendly touchscreen with clear numerical displays.
Modules
The M-Cube 01 Smart Planner Module is particularly impressive, allowing users to capture entire spaces using a joystick control. This results in enhanced efficiency, boasting a remarkable 38% accuracy rate and thrice the measurement speed.
The M-Cube 03 Bilateral Laser+ module stands out with dual functions: the bilateral laser measure, enabling quick and efficient measurements, especially in expansive spaces, and the integrated M-Green line level, ideal for alignment tasks such as picture hanging. Its smart algorithm ensures precise measurements every time.
With the M-Cube 05 Scale Roller module, curves, lines, and complex structures become
effortless to measure. This module offers infinite customized scales, eliminating redundant calculations. Its red cross-line alignment feature is a boon for those needing custom scaling.
Unlike conventional laser measures, the M-Cube is built to adapt and is flexible in use. Compact yet powerful, it’s priced fairly without compromising on functionality. It’s sustainable and continuously upgrades to stay ahead. Users who are fed up with paying for unnecessary features, inefficient tools, and bulky equipment can find solace in M-Cube which eradicates the need for multiple devices for different needs.
A company spokesperson aptly summed it up, “M-Cube is a game-changer”. It caters to all, from professionals like interior designers and surveyors to DIY enthusiasts. For everything from rapid floor planning to basic measurements, M-Cube offers exceptional precision, revolutionizing the way we measure.
The HOZO M-Cube is available from the HOZO website from $89/£72 or /$395/£318 for the full kit. It will also be available on Amazon and Amazon UK from April.
Watch the intro video of M-Cube | Modular Laser Measure on YouTube: https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=jZk1WzGA4kc
Net zero firm devises way to save NHS millions in energy bills
A company that helps organisations reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs has become the first to design a method of harnessing waste heat from MRI machines.
Viridis Building Services devised the ground-breaking innovation as part of its work to deliver the UK’s first fully net zero Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), in Scunthorpe town centre.
Not scheduled for completion until this autumn, the £19.4m Scunthorpe CDC new-build project is already on target to achieve net zero status, having been passed as such by Building Regulations and construction-stage EPC ratings.
Viridis was tasked to achieve as close as possible to net zero with the scheme but is confident that it will surpass
expectations and create a building that will even be able to feed excess energy back into the National Grid.
The firm, based in Collingham, near Newark, has introduced a combination of natural and mechanical heating and ventilation, roof-mounted PV tiles and optimal lighting systems.
But as part of its problemsolving process, it has also pioneered a method for capturing the enormous amounts of rejected heat from the centre’s two MRI machines and feeding that energy back into the 2,000 sq. metre building.
This innovation alone could save the NHS millions of pounds in energy costs if the same method was introduced across its estate.
Lee Marshall, managing director of Viridis, said: “The knock-on benefits to this unique breakthrough could be huge.
“Not only have we delivered the UK’s first net zero Community Diagnostic Centre, we have also achieved a
solution with the MRI heat recovery process that could save millions in energy bills and make a significant contribution to the reduction of the NHS’s carbon footprint.”
Scunthorpe CDC is one of the 160 Community Diagnostic Centres that the Government pledged to deliver before the end of 2024. The centres, which are being located in high-population areas close to public transport networks to provide easy patient access and encourage a reduction in car travel, will provide noninvasive treatments such as MRI scans, CT scans, ultrasounds and X-Rays.
Due to its strong reputation for delivering net zero buildings, Viridis was given a completely open brief with Scunthorpe CDC by Northern Lincolnshire & Goole NHS Foundation Trust.
“We were told they wanted a ‘nearly’ net zero building, as part of the NHS Estate’s commitment towards eventually achieving net zero across its
entire portfolio,” said Lee.
“How we achieved that was effectively up to us. So we employed our usual process of combining each team member’s individual expertise in various disciplines to ask how we can exceed the brief and actually deliver a fully net zero building – within budget.
“We do not stop short at only implementing what has gone before. We always challenge the norms – and, like here, it often it pays off.”
The Viridis team working on this project comprised of experts in mechanical engineering and electrical design, renewable energy and the environment.
The team’s first ideas focused on the thermal efficiency of the building – ways to contain heat and recover waste heat. They then began to look at various energy systems within the building, such as lighting, and came up with ways to optimise them to create maximum efficiency and minimum carbon emissions.
But the major breakthrough came about when the team began to investigate the enormous quantities of heat that are traditionally rejected from MRI machines.
The use of MRI machines as energy providers rather than energy wasters had never been done before. Heat produced by MRIs would normally be ‘disposed of’ through a fan to the outside atmosphere, whereas Viridis found a way to collect and re-use it with the use of heat pumps.
A building like Scunthorpe CDC would typically have expected to pay around £60k-£65k per year for its energy. But with the Viridis innovations, it is expected to have zero energy costs and figures indicate it may be able to sell around £1k of energy back to the Grid.
To discover more about achieving net zero visit www.viridisbsl.co.uk.
Camden & Islington Councils Pioneer Industrial Infrared Heating
London LAs strategically collaborate on sustainable heating system for Hornsey Street Refuse & Recycling Centre
Shadow Industrial (SI), one of the UK’s leading infrared heating specialists, has been chosen to refit the heating systems at the London Boroughs of Camden and Islington’s jointly-owned Hornsey Street Refuse & Recycling Centre.
The decision to use SI’s cutting-edge heaters was made on the recommendation of M&E contractor, Vitalenergi London, which was appointed to update the site’s HVAC.
Replacing the building’s 300m2 existing AmbiRad
fan heater system, at just over £25,000, the project will see Shadow Industrial fit 35 of its zero-emission, highperformance heaters across the entire facility. This comes in at a far lower cost, often a 50-75% saving, and increased efficiency than many other alternative electric heating systems.
Predicted to reduce energy consumption by 80%, this represents a landmark moment for shortwave infrared in industrial settings.
Not only that, the replacement of existing heating systems with a low-cost, more sustainable alternative perfectly aligns with both Camden and Islington Council’s Climate Action Plans which seek to achieve Net Zero operational emissions by 2030.
As Graham Hughes from Islington Council says, “When Vitalenergi first introduced us to Shadow Industrial’s technology we were very impressed, particularly by its capabilities and relatively low operational costs. It’s going to make a massive contribution to our efforts, alongside Camden Council to reduce emissions. We’ll also be able to approach our heating strategy in a far more diverse way, keeping costs down and passing those savings onto taxpayers.”
The heat is on
Not only will Shadow Industrial’s heating systems shrink the centre’s carbon footprint, but it will also improve energy efficiency. This is
predominantly due to the way shortwave infrared works, in contrast to traditional electric and gas-powered central heating. The technology works by emitting focused radiant heat through preciselyconfigured reflectors.
Essentially it heats the person, not the air around them, significantly reducing the amount of heat lost to the atmosphere. This comes into its own in large-span, highceilinged structures which experience heavy traffic constantly entering in and out, leading to a consistent draft. Wall-mounted or ceilinghung, directed downwards at individuals, the energy creates a comfortable and instant warmth reminiscent of the gentle heat of the sun.
In control
Plug-and-play these
lightweight heaters are easy to install and operate, compared to traditional systems. It’s helping to get a practical and scalable heating network up and running within an industrial facility quickly, with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations.
Even better, unlike most gas and electric systems, these heaters can be turned on and off on demand as and when personnel are working in specific areas across the site. The instantaneousness of the heat emitted means it can deliver maximum effectiveness at the click of a switch, and extinguish at the same rate. This means no part of the build is heated unnecessarily.
As Luke Chappell, Vitalenergi’s lead design engineer (mechanical) on the project says, “Shortwave infrared’s set to be a serious
market disruptor in the industrial heating market. It’s a gamechanger for local authority and public sector projects, which are both subject to strict sustainability briefs and budgetary constraints. We cannot wait to see the positive impact Shadow Industrial’s heaters will have on those working within, and managing, the Hornsey Street Refuse & Recycling Centre. The Shadow Industrial team has been amazing throughout the process and we looking forward to partnering again on future projects.”
Installation of Shadow Industrial’s new system was completed at the start of Q2 2024.
To find out more about Shadow Industrial and its shortwave infrared products click here.
Podcast: How to select & size a commercial humidifier
Condair has released a new podcast for HVAC professionals on how to select and size a commercial humidifier. In a 15-minute interview with BusinessNet Explorer, Dave Marshall-George, Sales Director at Condair, explains what should be considered when setting out on a humidifier project.
Dave comments, “This podcast will be really helpful for any building services consultant, contractor or FM who needs to understand more about humidification of a commercial premises. Humidifiers are essential in many applications, but projects of this type don’t come along very often. So it can be difficult for HVAC engineers to get the experience
needed to successfully design a humidification system. In this podcast, I describe the main elements that determine whether a humidifier should be used in an AHU or directly in a room, which type of humidifier fits what type of application and how to correctly size a unit for an area.”
This latest Condair podcast is available at www.condair.co.uk/ podcast as well as on Spotify, SoundCloud and YouTube. Also, available on this Condair webpage is Condair’s back catalogue of podcasts. The series of bite-sized, informative audio episodes cover topics like how to use humidifiers for evaporative cooling in AHUs, how to combat static
with humidity, humidity’s impact on health and how to use dehumidifiers to reduce ice in commercial freezers.
The Condair Group is the world’s leading specialist in humidity control and evaporative cooling, with energy efficient, hygienic and innovative technologies for commercial, industrial and heritage applications. Condair is represented in the UK by Condair Ltd, which offers system design, manufacture, supply, installation, commissioning, maintenance and spares.
You can find out more by visiting the company’s website at www.condair.co.uk.
Fresh Large EVO - The air renewal unit that simplifies the air conditioning system and increases its energy efficiency
Clivet continues its commitment to the principles of the IAQ by further expanding its range of innovative solutions for air renewal, purification and sanitization. The latest novelty is Fresh Large EVO, the full fresh air unit with active thermodynamic recovery, ecological R-32 refrigerant, full inverter technology and electronic filtration, which simplifies the annual cycle air-conditioning system and increases its energy efficiency.
Fresh Large EVO utilizes active thermodynamic recovery technology not only to completely cover the ventilation load but also to provide a contribution to meeting the building’s heating requirements.
Fresh Large EVOCiSDN-Y EF 1 S, available with air flow rates from 300 to 2500 m3/h, is ideal for commercial, tertiary and large residential applications. It is characterized by:
• R-32 refrigerant, which has a low GWP (Global Warming Potential) and ensures excellent performance in extreme conditions, low refrigerant charge and high coefficient of thermal exchange
• Efficient energy recovery of exhaust air with low fan consumption thanks to active thermodynamic recovery
• Full inverter technology, which optimizes the unit’s performance even at
part load ensuring high efficiencies all year round
• It contributes to the satisfaction of internal loads even at extreme temperatures.
• Maximum filtration efficiency with iFD electronic filters (ISO 16890 ePM1 90%), guaranteeing high air quality and at the same time low ventilation consumption
• Absence of contamination between exhaust and intake air flows
• Smart free cooling and indoor air quality management
• 30% recycled EPP structure for maximum acoustic comfort and thermal insulation, as well as ease of transport and installation.
• Extended operating range down to -20°C in heating mode
• Easy system design thanks to the fact that all components are already integrated
• Advanced remote control and monitoring solutions
Comment by product manager Damiano Rossi: “The new Fresh Large EVO represents a further step
forward in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) world in the direction of air quality and efficiency.
Thanks to its distinctive thermodynamic recovery with full inverter technology and iFD filtration, it is the ideal solution for applications such as schools, offices, small retail outlets, restaurants, banks, car dealerships, be they new buildings or existing ones.
Its use is a guarantee of plant simplification, yearround efficiency and high air quality, benefiting not only the plant operator but also and above all the people who can live, work, study, efficiently and comfortably in a healthy and safe environment.
Thanks to these distinctive features, Fresh Large EVO was chosen for the MCE Awards 2024.”
Wireless fire detection and alarm solution for complex industrial environment
Cygnus’ world first 100% wireless and EN 54 certified SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm solution has been installed at the Contractor’s Village at Heysham Power Station 1 in Lancashire, providing reliable life-saving fire protection equipment in a challenging industrial location.
Manchester-based installer Marlowe Fire & Security worked together with its client, Equans, a provider of technical services, FM, regeneration and energy services, on the project. Marlowe Fire & Security selected Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro solution having successfully worked with the Cygnus team on several projects previously.
Challenging Setting
The Contractor’s Village consists of twenty cabins, each equipped with a Detector and Manual Call Point, connected to a SmartNet-Pro Control Panel in one of the nearest cabins to the main site, alongside an interface for the signal to the main site.
“We chose SmartNet-Pro thanks to its proven reliability, robustness, and impressive installation speed. This project presented quite a challenge due to the amount of metal in the cabin construction, which would cause issues if installing a wired system, and means we needed a product with robust signal strength. Thanks to SmartNet’s 100% wireless capabilities, it ensured minimal disruption to the site and was quickly deployable. We’ve used Cygnus products before in similar settings and we’ve always been impressed with the outcome and this project was no exception,” commented Simon Hilton, Systems Account Manager,
Marlowe Fire & Security.
Heysham Power Station 1 experiences intermittent outages for maintenance purposes. SmartNet runs on wireless radio devices as part of a robust, self-forming and self-healing mesh network technology, in which the infrastructure nodes connect dynamically to provide highly efficient and robust network performance. This ensures that the SmartNet fire detection and alarm system can keep operating through these outages for the continuous onsite safety of workers. Being 100% wireless, SmartNet not only reduces cabling complexities that would arise trying to install through metal, but also provides a scalable solution for future needs.
Successful Results
Simon Hilton commended the fast responsiveness of the Cygnus team, saying, “The support from the Cygnus team was exceptional. They were always on hand to assist
us, ensuring a smooth and successful installation.” Simon also highlighted the value of the Cygnus Academy one-day training session and becoming a Cygnus Certified Installer, “the team found this hugely beneficial as it combined both theoretical and handson practical training to enable them to complete a successful installation.” The Cygnus Academy presents a highspecification, in-person training programme, that can be carried out in two bespoke locations. Installers gain understanding and attain certification for installing SmartNet.
Geoff Copsey, EDF Energy, expressed satisfaction with the installation, stating, “The implementation of Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro system at Heysham Power Station 1 has provided us with a reliable and robust fire detection solution. We are impressed with the system’s performance and appreciate the peace of mind it brings to our operations.”
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Advanced Wireless Technology Protects 16th Century Mansion House
Fire protection solutions manufacturer, Advanced, has provided an intelligent fire panel with wireless detection to protect a historic mansion house and estate in Scotland.
An Advanced MxPro 5 analogue addressable fire panel has been installed in Wedderlie House to provide industry-leading protection that is high-performance and fault tolerant. The system protects the whole house, which required Category L2 coverage as it provides wedding accommodation.
Wedderlie House, in the parish of Westruther, consists of a fortified tower thought to date from the late 16th century, to which a larger house was added in 1680. A late 17th century three-storey addition features rough-cast walls, and the Renaissance House was added to the old keep expanding the building further.
Fire and security service providers, Safe Services, installed an Advanced MxPro 5 fourloop analogue addressable fire panel with 86 devices on the loop. Due to the age and construction of the building, it would have been impossible to install cabling without damaging the property, so the Advanced panel was seamlessly integrated with EMS Firecell wireless devices.
Graeme Millar, Fire Technical Sales Engineer
at Safe Services, said: “We were responsible for the installation, commissioning, verification and handover of the system, and will also be conducting ongoing maintenance. The age and construction of Wedderlie House could have been a real challenge but being able to integrate the Advanced panel with wireless EMS Firecell detection made it far more straightforward. We have several sites with the same combination, and we know the Advanced MxPro 5 works well with EMS equipment. The Advanced MxPro 5 is our panel of choice as it’s a trusted and reliable panel with our design and installation teams.”
Neil Parkin, Sales Manager at Advanced, said: “Our open-protocol MxPro 5 panels allow installers to select the most suitable device range to suit the needs of each site. They are designed to make life as easy as possible, delivering robust protection that offers real peace of mind, all backed up by our highly rated technical support. Opting for wireless equipment is ideal for historic sites like Wedderlie House, where cabling can be trickier to install and visually unappealing. Add to that the time and cost benefits they provide to installers, and it is a great choice in multiple scenarios both large and small.”
MxPro 5 is the fire industry’s leading multiprotocol fire panel and is certified by FM Approvals to the
EN 54 standard. It offers customers a choice of leading detector protocols and a completely open installer network, backed up by free training and support. MxPro 5 can be used in single-loop, single-panel format, or easily configured into highspeed networks of up to 200 panels covering huge areas. Ease of installation and configuration, as well as its wide range of peripheral options, make MxPro 5 customisable to almost any application.
As well as compatibility with leading wired detector brands, MxPro 5’s versatile wireless capabilities make it easy to install robust fire alarm systems whilst saving crucial time, cost and disruption. Harnessing the power of proven technology, MxPro 5’s wireless solutions are scalable, adaptable and reliable – for complete fire safety peace of mind.
Wireless solutions not only mean lower visual and physical impact, but they are also faster and cheaper to install, making them an increasingly popular alternative for sites where downtime is not an option, or re-wiring would prove disruptive. Thanks to two-way communication with the panel, battery replacement and fault reporting can also be worked into the on-going maintenance schedule via the panel service tools.
The MxPro 5’s stand-out false alarm management capabilities are available as standard. AlarmCalm delivers unprecedented control of verification and investigation delays. By dividing sites up into virtual false alarm ‘building areas’ independent of fire zones, much more precise control of false alarm management and reduction strategies can be achieved that exactly fit the needs of each part of a building. An optional AlarmCalm button allows trained occupants to verify if they believe a local fire signal is a false alarm too – a highly effective way of eliminating unwanted alarms.
As a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced is committed to creating a safer future. A reputation for performance, quality and ease of use see Advanced products specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. The Advanced product portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and reduction solutions as well as emergency lighting.
Advanced is owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC – a global group of life-saving technology companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day.
For further information on Advanced: Tel: 0345 894 7000 or visit: https://uk.advancedco.com/
BECOME A CORPORATE MEMBER OF THE PSSA
The Public Sector Sustainability Association (PSSA) provides a professional association and network for all those working in the Public Sector who have a common interest in sustainability. The aim of the association is to bring together a wide group of people working across all areas of the Public Sector – to help educate, train, support and connect as we work towards a more sustainable future.
Becoming a Corporate Member of the Public Sector Sustainability Association highlights your organisations commitment to sustainability and offers a unique platform to reach our membership of committed and influential sustainability professionals in Government, Local Authorities, NHS, Education and Housing Associations. The PSSA offers a single level of Corporate Membership, providing a fantastic opportunity to gain recognition and exposure with our Public Sector membership.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
• Comprehensive listing in Suppliers Directory
• Unlimited opportunity to supply press releases, articles & news to feature on PSSA website
• One release for inclusion in monthly Newsletter
• Opportunity to promote your own events/webinars/training courses to PSSA members
• Logo on PSSA homepage as ‘Corporate Member’ of the PSSA
• Introductory email sent to our members as the latest Corporate Member of the PSSA
• Logo - ‘Corporate Member of the PSSA’ to use on your own websites/materials
• Potential to conduct research/surveys through the PSSA
• 3 x Full Page Advertisements within either Energy Manager magazine or Building & Facilities Management magazine
• 2 x Advertising Banners to appear on the PSSA Newsletter
WHAT DOES IT COST
The current rate to become a Corporate Member of the PSSA is £1,495+VAT per annum.
Interested in becoming a Corporate Member of the PSSA? Get in touch today - call us on 01933 316931 or email us at corporate@pssa.info