Gilberts Data Centres

Ventilation sales sky-rocket to serve digital demand

The surge in digital demand as a result of COVID is seeing a corresponding acceleration in specialised ventilation from Gilberts Blackpool.

Britain’s leading manufacturer of commercial ventilation supply options is reporting growing interest at home and abroad in its internal floor grilles and external ventilation louvres for data centres, specifically its GF Series heavy duty floor grilles and new WK Series kitform screening louvres.

Inside the data centre, Gilberts’ GF Series delivers air volumes up to 500l/sec with a jet velocity of 3m/sec. Able to withstand point loading of up to 4.5KN, the GF grilles are available with slimline hit/miss dampers that are position lockable to give finite control over airflow without hot or cold spots. The dampers are attached to the body grilles and the grilles engineered to replace 600mm square floor tiles to simplify on-site installation and handling.

Externally, Gilberts range of factory-built and site -assembled screening louvres provide the agility to address any through-façade ventilation, balancing 50% free ventilation with weather protection. WK is the latest variation, bringing a unique design of mullion which enables screening sections up to 3m high to be constructed on-site without the need for intermediate support. Its kit format means it is easy to precisely cut each blade on site to address specific façade considerations (services penetrations etc). The system can be infinitely accessorised with eliminator blades, insect screens, acoustic blanks and so on to tailor each screen to specific weather and performance requirements.

“The pandemic and its impact on our way of living- home working, online shopping etc- has seen the

UK designate data centres as part of the Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), and staff therein as keyworkers. London alone has seen an almost doubling of digital deployments in the past year(1), meaning numbers of existing industrial units are having to be rapidly converted and remodelled,” explained Gilberts’ Sales Director Ian Rogers.

“Good ventilation is critical to address the internal heatload generated from banks of servers. We have remained open for business throughout the various Lockdowns and have a reputation for quality product and service. Therefore we have been well-positioned to react and deliver single-source internal and external solutions that are quick to fit and effective in maintaining the precise ambient temperature and humidity (RH) crucial for such sensitive equipment.”

Founded 60 years ago, Gilberts Blackpool is Britain’s leading independent air movement specialist, and is unique in its ability to develop air movement components, be it ‘mainstream’ or bespoke- entirely in-house, from initial design through tooling, production, testing and supply, at its 95000ft2 manufacturing facility. Its stateof-the-art test centre, designed and built inhouse, is one of the most technically advanced in the country.

Gilberts tel 01253 766911

E: info@gilbertsblackpool.com

With the UK now frequently experiencing record volumes of rainfall and increasing risks of flooding, building design must be more ecologically and sustainably driven to counteract climatic challenges. Keith Hills, Managing Director at EGR (Eco Green Roofs Ltd) explains how living roof systems can offer a proven solution to managing rainwater drainage in city spaces.

Living or green roof systems have been growing more common as planners and architects look to maximise green spaces in urban areas to meet local environmental action plans. This includes building envelope designs that incorporate increased biodiversity through the creation of new habitats for wildlife. However, green roofs can also play a vital role in managing the impacts of extreme weather and mitigating flooding.

Global environmental change is already impacting the climate of the UK in clear and measurable ways with drier summers and wetter, milder winters. Met Office figures show that since 1998, we have experienced six of the ten wettest years on record. February 2020 saw more than twice the average rainfall for the month - making it the wettest February ever recorded - and capped off the 5th wettest and mildest winter since records began in 1862.

According to analysis by the Tyndall Centre for Climate

Change Research at the University of East Anglia, UK rainfall will continue to increase in intensity in the coming years as the climate continues to warm.

Therefore, it is now more important than ever that the way our buildings, towns and cities are designed and constructed accounts for these climatic challenges and contributes to minimising the impact. In any area where development has taken place, including some more rural settings, one of the most common contributors to flooding is the presence of hard, impermeable surfaces. Instead of draining away slowly, the rainwater quickly runs off these surfaces and can overwhelm both drainage systems and watercourses leading to flooding. A report for the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) estimated that flooding causes around £1.1bn of damage each year in the UK, just one factor in how flooding can impact people’s lives. Implementing approaches to mitigate flooding aligns with the aim stated in the RIBA Sustainable Outcomes Guide of balancing social, environmental and economic value to deliver a triple bottom line of sustainability.

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are key to counteracting the effects of the urban environment and as such, are now a key part of planning policy. The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 requires developments to utilise elements of a SuDS approach to reduce the flood risk, and the current version of the London Plan specifies that new developments should aim to achieve greenfield run-off rates.

Green roofs have an important role to play in helping to achieve this by intercepting rainfall, providing opportunities for evapotranspiration from the vegetation and the storing of rainwater. These green roof systems can fulfil many of the key aims of the SuDS approach as it helps to manage the water as close as possible to where it falls, reduces the quantity and speed of runoff to prevent flooding and can also act as a filter to limit the pollution present in runoff. Green roofs can also form part of meeting the RIBA Sustainable Outcomes, drawn from the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. In particular the systems have a role in the creation of a Sustainable Water Cycle and Sustainable Land Use & Ecology objectives.

The performance and capacity of the green roof in managing rainwater will depend on a number of factors. These include the type and design of the system, the depth of the substrate, the type of vegetation and the level of moisture already in the soil. The Greater London Authority’s Living Roofs and Walls Report (2019) cites several studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of different roof types. Research carried out in Germany found that extensive green roofs with between 60mm and 100mm of soil can intercept 50% of annual rainfall and intensive roofs with deeper substrates (around 500mm) can intercept up to 90% of the rainfall. Furthermore, a study in the United States found that a green roof with a substrate depth of 89mm delayed the start of roof run-off by 5.7 hours and the peak run-off by 2 hours. Finally, with so many factors to consider, it is important that the right approach is adopted to ensure the system supports the planning and design objectives. Therefore, engaging with the right specialist partner who can provide technical advice and guidance on a full range of systems is essential. The chosen supplier should also comply with best practice schemes such as the Green Roof Organisation (GRO) Code of Practice and FLL guidance as due to the living components, expertise in design, installation and maintenance is crucial to the success and longevity of the roof.

In addition, a blue roof is a system engineered to store rainwater and release it in a controlled way to limit the impact of heavy rain. This can be a standalone system or be integrated with a green roof element where the rainwater store can irrigate the vegetation.

Green roofs are important to the future of our villages, towns and cities, not only as a way of creating much needed green spaces for both people and wildlife but in helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. In the words of RIBA president, Alan Jones: “We must re-construct our profession as the leaders of sustainable design teams if we are to combat climate change and meet the UK climate targets and our ethical responsibilities”. Working with an experienced and specialist supplier will help ensure that the value added by the living roof system can be maximised.

To discuss an upcoming project, contact the EGR team at info@egr.co.uk or to read more about its full service offering including green, blue and solar roof solutions and case study examples, visit www.egr.co.uk.

Hellberg Launch New Safety Eyewear

Find Focus with Hellberg’s range of all-new specialist safety glasses and goggles.

Renowned for its hi-spec PPE that includes advanced hearing protection products, face protection and communication solutions, Hellberg Safety is launching a new range safety eyewear. With a wide range of street-smart styles, from basic to premium - the new range ensures a consistently clear line of sight and safe vision for professional tradesmen and women wherever they’re working on site. Built with lightweight, durable materials and specially developed lens technology, the eyewear provides complete protection, and comfort throughout the working day and can be easily combined with other PPE including ear defenders, safety helmets, and visors. With a focus on enhanced safety in all conditions, Hellberg glasses and goggles have impact-resistant lenses with antiscratch and anti-fog coating on both sides and there are styles that can be worn over prescription glasses. Around the lens, the ergonomic design, incorporates practical features, like a soft nose bridge and ‘adjustable temples’, making sure the glasses stay in place and fit safely allowing you to keep your focus all day long.

Getting more information on the Hellberg Eyewear range is easy. You can call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.hellbergsafety.com or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk

Plug and play CO2 monitor keeps workplace safe

As offices begin to open up in the next few weeks, and safety comes to the fore, companies are being encouraged to install CO2 Monitors in the workplace.

Ventilation, in the current pandemic, is one of the most important factors in helping reduce the relative risk of the airborne transmission of COVID-19.

A report produced by Sage’s Environmental and Modelling Group (EMG), and endorsed by the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), suggests that fresh air plays a significant role in keeping the virus at bay indoors, and that poor air quality could be highlighted with the use of a CO2 monitor.

In response, a UK manufactured, USB powered ‘plug and play’ CO2 monitor has been launched in 2021 to provide a cost-effective solution. The Vision CO2 Monitor helps determine if further ventilation is required by providing a clear digital readout and focuses on a bold traffic light display to indicate that further ventilation is required when it matters. ‘This CO2 monitor is particularly appropriate for offices, site cabins, and schools where there are installation constraints, facilitating a fast but reliable method of monitoring the risk of COVID transmission,’ commented Andy Green, who developed the unit. Elevated CO2 levels not only provide an indication that airborne contaminants may be present, but they also reduce cognitive function, productivity and can have long term adverse effects on health and general wellbeing. ‘Most buildings are naturally ventilated and rely on opening windows for fresh air, or use air recirculation systems that have been switched off, so without a CO2 monitor there is no way of knowing if spaces such as offices and classrooms are adequately ventilated,’ commented Andy Green. ‘There are a number of ‘cheap’ units available online, however these focus on gimmick displays rather than the required traffic light indication. We also offer UK support with a guaranteed supply chain if larger quantities are required.’ ‘The Vision CO2 Monitor removes any uncertainty and provides an immediate indication that further ventilation is needed,’ he added. ‘If risk reduction for COVID is an issue in your workplace or school I strongly recommend getting in touch,’ Andy concluded.

For more information visit www.vision-co2monitor.co.uk or email vision@flamefast.co.uk

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Artificial Plants & Trees for Businesses

Our master craftsmen construct each bespoke order with painstaking care and attention, to create an exceptionally ‘real’ artificial showpiece, and we offer bespoke solutions to suit the needs of your space, business and tastes.

Whether you need simple plants and trees that don’t need tending to or you’re going for a full artificial landscape with turf, hedges and more, we have existing products and the capacity to create custom designs for any need and budget.

We’ll offer a no obligation quote to help you plan your projects and we can tailor our service to ‘fir’ your needs.

Full Support

Whatever your choices, we have the design experience and know-how needed to make you stand out. We can work with your design to make your premises look incredible, whatever the space and whatever the industry. We can even help you develop the design, drawing on years of experience.

Who Have We Supplied?

Major companies in many industries including ITV, BBC, Channels 4 and 5, Mulberry, Innocent Drinks, Monsoon, Bella Italia, Tescos, Big Brother, The Only Way is Essex, Coronation Street, Dancing on Ice, Park Resorts, Volkswagen, and more. centres, theme parks, colleges and schools, cruise ships, theatres… the list goes on! We have tens of thousands of satisfied customers in the UK, in Europe, and across the World.

We can provide offers for procurement managers and corporate buyers on bulk orders and for trade, to help you finalise your design. Our quotes are no obligation - so call us today. We look forward to working with you!

Get in Touch!

Call us today on 01524 858888 or email sales@justartificial.co.uk – Browse our Web Store online for our full stock range and more info on our bespoke solutions on offer.

We’ve also sold to house builders, zoos, hotels, restaurants, shopping

Unrivalled performance from Schöck modular connectivity solution

Phase three of the Elephant Park regeneration project comprises Park Central (North) and East Grove.

These developments provide more than 800 new homes and the thermal performance at the design detailing involving the balconies and the unitised façades needed careful consideration if thermal bridging was to be minimised

After the widespread devastation of the Second World War, the Elephant and Castle district of London was clumsily redeveloped during the 1950s. The resulting offices, housing estates and shopping centre were impressive in their time, but at best outmoded in recent times.

However, the area has remained an important part of Central London and the current £2.3 billion Elephant Park regeneration project now aims to create one of the most sustainable inner-city regeneration projects in Europe. Overall there are five phases at various stages in the masterplan, with the third currently live alongside the New Kent Road. There are eleven buildings in this phase, divided into two plots – Park Central (North) and East Grove – providing 829 homes in total.

There are brick-finished midrise blocks to 11 and 12-storeys throughout and each plot also features a main tower, one at 24-storey, the other 25-storey, both part of the family of tall buildings in the masterplan. Construction of the towers uses around 19,000 m2 of aluminium unitised façade panels.

The façade panels for the towers, supplied by FKN and Lindner, were delivered complete with integrated sliding doors and openings ready for the connection of ventilation devices. There are also hundreds of cantilever steel balconies throughout the project. These were supplied by Sheffield based Dearneside Fabrications Ltd. and were also pre-fabricated, including flooring and glazed balustrades.

Avoidance of thermal bridging is critical

With steel having such a high conductivity when compared with other construction materials the avoidance of thermal bridging is critical throughout the project. Local heat loss is a major factor, resulting in more energy being required to maintain the internal temperature of the building. Also, low internal surface temperatures in the area of any thermal bridge can cause condensation. This in turn is likely to result in structural integrity problems with absorbent materials, such as insulation products or plasterboard. Mould growth is also a possible risk, which in a residential situation can cause asthma and allergies.

With both Park Central (North) and East Grove the thermal performance at the connectivity

points involving the balconies and the commercial façades needed careful design consideration if heat flow was to be minimised. The Schöck Isokorb structural thermal break is universally recognised for its capability with balcony design detailing. However, it is less widely known for its ability to dramatically improve the thermal performance involving façade engineering. On this project the thermal zone sits outside of the slab zone and the Isokorb is the ideal solution. The specific product that offers so many benefits is the Schöck Isokorb T type S.

Unique and versatile

The versatile Schöck Isokorb T type S structural thermal break is the ideal connectivity solution for project applications involving steel-to-steel applications. There are two variants, the T type S-N for tensile force and the T type S-V for transferring compression and shear forces. It is the only approved thermal break product for steel construction that satisfies the loadbearing and thermal insulation requirements of steel design. Also, being a modular unit, it can be adapted to all profile sizes and load bearing capacity requirements – plus it can be used in both new construction and renovation projects. Totally verifiable performance

Although the Schöck product types used in phase three at Elephant Park are for steel-to-steel connectivity, the comprehensive Isokorb range also offers solutions for concrete-to-steel, concrete-toconcrete – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets.

The requirement described in BRE IP1/06 and cited in Building Regulations Approved Documents Part L1 and L2 and Section 6 in Scotland, that the temperature factor used to indicate condensation risk (fRSI) must be greater than, or equal to, 0.75 for residential buildings is easily met by incorporating the Isokorb.

The range also complies with the Government Standard Assessment Procedure, SAP 2012, concerning CO2 emissions from buildings and respectively heat losses through non-repeating thermal bridges. Products meet full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations, have NHBC approval and offer LABC Registration. There is also the security of independent BBA Certification.

Contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or visit the website at www.schoeck.com for full details of the Isokorb T type S and all other Isokorb solutions

INTRODUCING THE NEW INTRODUCING THE NEW Titon FireSafe®Titon FireSafe® Air Brick Air Brick

The new Titon FireSafe® Air Brick Range is a unique high flow terminal designed for powered ventilation systems offering low resistance to airflow, but high resistance to fire as set out in Approved Document B (fire safety) volume 1: Dwellings, 2019 edition. Constructed from sheet steel (A1) and polyester powder coated to classification A2-s1, d0. The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is designed to be built into external wall types during construction.

• Material 1.2mm electrogalvanized sheet steel, fire class A1 ‘no contribution to fire’ • Designed for both 204x60 & 220x90 ducting • Bezelled version for use with exterior cladding instead of brickwork • Extensive versatile range for different installation options • Optional lengths available at request • Polyester powder coating meeting

EN13501-1 classification A2-s1,d0 • Performance tested to BS EN13141-2:2010 • Corrosion resistance - salt spray tested to

BS EN ISO 9227:2012 • Special paint finishes available depending on quantity • Topic related CIBSE approved CPD available

Titon - the manufacturer you can build a relationship with

Titon launches new CPD on metal air bricks for building applications into external walls

Titon are pleased to announce they have a new CIBSE approved CPD ‘on the use of metal air bricks for building applications in external walls’ specifically looking at Fire Safety.

The CPD was developed in part to the response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s recommendations in her post Grenfell Tower review of building safety, for external walls of buildings to meet a Class A2 specification. The CPD challenges cu rrent practices and legislation in place, specifically looking at Residential/ Domestic applications within Approved Document B. The CPD focuses on:

• Analysing high flow terminals for powered ventilation systems and how they affect the fire safety of a system depending on the application and product • Challenging current ethos and mentalities of current designs and specifications • Reviews ‘good practice’ and looks at current system designs The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is a specialist product developed and manufactured by offering low resistance to airflow, but high resistance to fire as set out in Approved Document B (fire safety) volume 1: Dwellings, 2019 edition. The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is designed and tested to BS EN13141-2:2010 specifically for mechanical ventilation systems. Made from 1.2mm electrogalvanized sheet steel, fire class A1 ‘no contribution to fire’ and polyester powder coating meeting EN13501-1 classification A2s1,d0. The Titon FireSafe® Air Brick is ideal for fire safety applications. For more information please go to

www.titon.com/firesafe

To request a CPD email marketing@titon.co.uk

Stepnell Secures Multiple Major Framework Wins

COMPLETE construction partner Stepnell has recently secured its spot on two new construction frameworks – the Public Sector Construction Works Framework, managed by NHS Shared Business Services, and Procure Partnerships Framework.

The frameworks, which both offer Stepnell the opportunity to win work across the UK, will help to boost its ever-growing portfolio of public sector projects. Stepnell has been appointed to the Public Sector Construction Works East Midlands, West Midlands, South West and South East Framework regions, for public sector and healthcare projects in two lots - up to £2.5m and £2.5m to £5m. It is now also on Procure Partnerships East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, South East and South West Frameworks for both its £1m to £4m and £4m to £12m lots. Richard Wakeford, director at Stepnell, said: “This really is an exciting time for Stepnell. It’s been a difficult year for the industry as a whole, so to end 2020 in such a strong position is not something we take for granted. “By joining these frameworks and expanding our portfolio of public sector work, we’re not only positioning ourselves as a leading contractor in the construction sector, but we’re also helping the UK to get back on its feet by pushing forward with important regeneration and development projects – many of which will be expanding on facilities for the NHS, which has been at the forefront of the fight against Covid-19.”

The Public Sector Construction Works Framework will tender work for the NHS with the aim of enhancing the quality of its services across the country. The framework can be accessed by all public sector organisations, including local authorities, educational institutions and housing associations. Direct awards are also available under the Public Sector Construction Works Framework, with the option of mini-tender. Stepnell entered its official period of agreement on the 17 December 2020, gaining the opportunity to win work that will range from new build schemes to the renovation of existing public sector facilities.

Richard continued: “We’re incredibly happy to join both of these frameworks and expand our remit even further into these regions. The team is looking forward to getting stuck into a new selection of projects and expanding our client base with both frameworks. We have already been lucky enough to have been awarded work through the Procure Partnerships Framework, and we look forward to this continuing on both frameworks over the next two years.” Stepnell has recently won two public sector renovation projects on the Procure Partners Framework, which will both start on site this year. The £2.5m renovation of Northampton General Hospital is one of these schemes and includes the refurbishment and replacement of critical mechanical systems within the hospital. Stepnell has also succeeded in winning a project at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading – a £1.5 million refurbishment of its pathology service facilities and general office space in the Harborne building. Faye Dolan, national framework manager at Procure Partnerships Framework, said: “We are proud to have Stepnell on board as one of our contracting partners as they have extensive experience within the public sector. We look forward to developing our relationship even further with Stepnell over the years to come.

To find out more about Stepnell visit: www.stepnell.co.uk or join the conversation at @Stepnellltd.

OFF-GAS IDYLL GETS SUSTAINABLE OMNIE AIR SOURCE AND UFH SOLUTION

The traumas of lockdown have prompted a boom in the popularity of rural living, though the reality is that most ‘chocolate box’ country cottages lack contemporary comforts.

However, this will not be a worry to the purchasers of two newbuild homes in the Cotswolds idyll of Long Compton: thanks to their highly insulated construction and a truly sustainable building services package supplied by sector specialist, OMNIE.

Now known as Gold Stone, the pair of four-bedroom detached houses have been developed by local builder, DG Carpenter Ltd. on land adjoining an existing bungalow, fully reflecting the architectural heritage of the area through the use of coursed, reclaimed Cotswold limestone rather than reconstituted masonry. The stylish appearance continues throughout the homes’ living spaces where, as well as supplying plentiful hot water to the multiple bathrooms, high efficiency LG air source heat pumps will feed underfloor heating circuits to maintain temperatures during the area’s notoriously cold winters. The plumber from nearby Moretonin-Marsh, a past user of OMNIE products, carried out all of the installation work for the heating and hot water services.

He explains: “I work right across Gloucestershire and the neighbouring counties, while I’ve had past experience of installing OMNIE underfloor heating: including on a large domestic build at Lower Swell, near Stow-on-the-Wold. “

“For DG Carpenter on the Gold Stone houses, they sourced the complete package through Jewson at Chipping Norton and I undertook the installation of the heat pumps, the underfloor heating and the controls, while Simon and Andy Carpenter fitted the Zehnder heat MVHR systems which will provide the ventilation in what are very airtight builds. Downstairs we installed the pipework over 100mm of Celotex insulation using the Staple system, which is very quick. Then upstairs we switched to OMNIIE’s LowBoard panels which are just so easy to fit and look really neat when they’re done. While OMNIE provides all the layout drawings electronically as well as in printed format, I normally print them out at A3 and laminate them, to keep them clean and dry on site. It took approximately two days per floor to do the install on each house before a flooring specialist laid all the limestone and engineered oak.”

Because they run so quietly, the outdoor units could be located close to each home’s back wall, where they will continue to harvest latest heat from the atmosphere even in sub-zero temperatures. The Cylinder and components have been fitted in ground floor plantrooms. As well as leaving the room interiors free of radiators, the OMNIE underfloor heating has the added benefit of keeping the heat pumps running efficiently over extended periods, which reduces component wear. Together with the MVHR, this will also ensure the occupants of the Gold Stone properties will enjoy low energy bills while the heat pumps themselves carry 7-year warranty cover.

“OMNIE was absolutely fine about it and the background heat did the job while once they’re occupied, the OMNIE room thermostats, as well as floor sensors in the bathrooms, will keep the system in perfect balance for the owners.”

For further information on OMNIE’s underfloor heating renewables, ventilation and control products, please contact :

OMNIE, 18 APPLE LANE, SIDMOUTH ROAD, EXETER, DEVON, EX2 5GL.

TEL: 01392 363605 FAX: 01392 364871 EMAIL: projects@omnie.co.uk WEB: www.omnie.co.uk

Marmox Thermoblocks Used For Parapet Wall Construction on Brighton Student Building

The development of a new student accommodation building in one of the South Coast’s most popular towns has included the use of the proven-in-practice and very versatile Marmox Thermoblocks: specified to combat cold-bridging at the junction of its parapet walls with the property’s roof decks.

In total 800 of the 600mm long, 215x65mm Thermoblocks were supplied for the project by Dagenham based Encon Insulation Ltd., for the main contractor, Henry Construction, to lay during the development of the nine storey ‘Student Castle’ on Brighton’s Pelham Terrace.

The work also involved using some 60 cartridges of Marmox

MSP-360 sealant to secure the stepped overlap joints. The nineinch (225mm) thick brick walls have been built directly on top of the Thermoblocks which are themselves bedded around the perimeter of the RC terraces and main roof slab.

The site agent for Henry Construction, John Keeley commented: “I have used Marmox Thermoblocks on a number of projects in the past – including with previous companies and always found them ideal for applications such as this, easy to cut and lay, while also being very robust. In the case of the Student Castle here in Brighton we have employed them for a series of parapet walls at first floor level, then at the perimeter of floors 6, 8 and 9, where the private penthouse apartments are located. Inside the line of the parapet wall and the Thermoblocks, we are installing a felt membrane, covered by rigid insulation and then a single ply cap sheet, dressed up the inside of the wall, to complete the roofing work.” Marmox Thermoblocks are available in widths of 100, 140 or 215mm and are formed from sections of XPS (extruded polystyrene) encapsulating two rows of high strength, epoxy concrete mini-columns.

These are attached at either end to the top and bottom layers of glassfibre reinforced polymer concrete, to ensure a good bond with the rest of the structure.

As well as combatting cold-bridging at the base of blockwork walls, Thermoblocks are also often utilised to support timber frame construction or at vulnerable upper floor junctions including, as in the case of the Brighton project, beneath parapet walls. Crucially, a variety of details have been thermally modelled by the BRE to provide insulation values for use in SAP or other calculations, avoiding the punishing ‘default’ figure. Despite the disruption caused by the Coronavirus lockdown, the project is still on course to be completed in time for the start of the next academic year this autumn, providing a total of 189 high specification student bedrooms, as well as five private apartments.

For further information, please contact:

Marmox (uk) ltd. Caxton house 101103 hopewell drive chatham kent me5 7np. Tel: 01634 835290 fax: 01634 835299

EMAIL: sales@marmox.co.uk

MAGPLY DOUBLES UP ON SHORELINE PROPERTY TO WITHSTAND THE ‘SANDS OF TIME’

A striking new three bedroom beachfront home on the East Sussex coast has been designed to not only respect its location within an area of Special Scientific Interest, but also withstand the challenging weather conditions as well as shifting sands, with Magply boards specified as part of both the roof and wall construction.

Sea Breeze at Camber Sands is being built by Coast View Property Ltd., with RX Architects being the locally based design practice leading the project. The unique residence’s amenities will include a wellness spa with a steam pod, sauna and plunge pool, while the open plan living accommodation offers large expanses of glazing looking out across the beach.

The building is making use of non-traditional construction methods, which features twin 12mm layers of the rugged and versatile Magply boards as a carrier for a render like finish, applied by the Micro Cement Company across the entire envelope. Some 190 of the 12mm boards have been supplied to the site through the Rye branch of Parker Building Supplies. In the case of the habitable roof-space, the contractors are applying a single ply Renolit rubber membrane over a sarking board and then bonding aluminium rails along the line of the rafters, to which the two overlapping layers of Magply are fixed with stainless steel screws. The pink coloured finish is then applied as a primer, base and pigmented topcoat.

The Associate at RX Architects leading the project, Rob Pollard, commented: “We have specified Magply for a number of projects, generally where there were fire protection issues due to the closeness of other buildings. We know once it has been used to sheath the structure that we have the fire rating to safely timber clad over the top or use any other material. In the case of Sea Breeze it also makes an ideal substrate for the Micro Cement finish, being so stable. The designs are focused on creating a really robust covering for the rubber membrane that still allows us to obtain the warranty for it.”

Nick Browne from Coastal View Property, added: “Weighing 38 kg each, the Magply boards are fairly easy to handle and cut, while we are having to predrill them here because of fixing into the aluminium channels bonded across the Renolit single-ply membrane. We expect to be finished by the end of October, ready for the Micro Cement system to be applied.”

Magply offers a fire-safe and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products. Additionally, the unique production process keeps the chloride content to just 0.01%, enhancing both stability and long-term durability. The different thickness of panels are also widely used as a substrate board for the direct application of proprietary render systems, as well as for flooring and flat or pitched roof build-ups.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: GORDON PIRRET, MD or

JOHN MALONE, UK NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

IPP LTD. BRADWELL HALL BRADWELL ON SEA ESSEX CM0 7HX.

T.01621 776252 F.01621776688 EMAIL: gmp@intpetro.com or john@magply.co.uk

www.magply.co.uk www.passivepurple.com www.intelligentmembranes.co.uk

The new R400 laser cutter from Trotec will enable small businesses to benefit from highquality cutting technology at an affordable price. Trotec launches new affordable laser cutter

Designed by Trotec with Austrian engineering and built to exacting standards, the R400 laser cutter features a 1030 x 630mm working area and CO2 laser power from 60W-100W. It retails from £6,995 (excluding VAT) making it an affordable option for small businesses looking for a productive and reliable laser cutter.

Bryan Jater, Sales Director for Trotec UK and Ireland said: “Too often we see businesses buy into cheap laser cutters because the lower initial outlay is attractive to them. Unfortunately, many soon realise that the laser doesn’t live up to expectations or the frequent costs and downtime for its upkeep are holding the business back.

“The R-series is designed and engineered with the dependability and ease-of-use which is synonymous with Trotec, but the DC laser source enables us to sell it at a lower price point. So, it’s accessible for businesses who have a limited budget to start with but don’t want to compromise on quality and reliability.” The R400 is the latest addition to the R-series of CO2 glass tube laser cutters which already includes the R500 with a 1300x900 mm working area. Trotec has six laser showrooms across the UK and Ireland and also offers online demonstrations for the R-series as well its range of large format cutters, Speedy series engravers and galvo laser markers.

For more information on the R-series contact us via www.rayjetlaser.co.uk or call 0191 580 1182. 37