CONSTRUCTION &
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The leading magazine in the Construction & Engineering industries
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ISSUE 124
For over 17 years DG3 has provided Global Engineering and Construction companies with Onsite Managed Services for all their on-demand print and communication needs... We manage the complete process from leasing state-of-the-art equipment, providing professionally trained personnel to printing, finishing and delivering your valuable communications Our approach is bespoke to each organisation - offering significant cost savings, the provision of 24/7 business continuity, capital expenditure and removal of risk associated with upgrades We are committed to quality, the environment and to each and every client where we understand that fast turnaround and reliability are key to a successful, mutually beneficial relationship We handle all central print room management, digital and litho print, CAD plotting, large format colour and mono plan printing, mounting, finishing, design, copying, QR codes, augmented reality and scanning and archiving A seamless transition of all your communication needs - let DG3 do the work so you can concentrate on your core business Call us today on 020 7531 0592 or email europe.sales@dg3.com to see how DG3 can make a difference. www.dg3.com
Tri-cast has been manufacturing Carbon Fibre and Composite tubes for over 30 years. During this time they have established themselves as a leading global designer, developer and innovator of Tubular products. During this period we have attained experience in the practical applications for composites across such diverse market sectors and projects, from small parts to large scale structures, combined with a unique technical approach has enabled Tri-cast to offer the complete composite solution. Tri-Cast is a perfect partner whatever your challenge or application. Advanced Composites are now high on the list of materials when it comes to selecting materials for most Aerospace applications. The advantages of excellent durability, low weights are of significant importance to aerospace manufacturers. This industry was one of the first to appreciate its advantages; we have been at the forefront of this composite development now for over 12 years. Tri-Cast are approved supplier to Airbus, for their award winning A380, together with the next generation of A350 aircraft, are also major suppliers to many other industries ranging from Marine, Motorsport, Medical, and General Engineering applications. Recent developments have seen the successful introduction of a range of ‘I’ beam, ‘T’ & ‘U’ sections, square, rectangular tubes to complement our existing Round tube range.
TEL: +44 (0) 1706 861807 www.tri-cast.co.uk Tri-Cast Composite Tubes Ltd. Watson Works, Duke Street, Rochdale, Lancashire, England, OL12 0LT
Contents 22 38
54 08 18 22 24 26 30 32 34 36
38 42 44 46 4
Latest News
48 IKEA
8 bUILD
AIRIUS
50 52 54 56
Building Lives
58 Quadratec
Canterbury Collage
60 62 64 66 70 72 74
ABSOLUTSOLAR Agrill & Bute Council
Cushman & Wakefield Fife council Fine Tubes FHP Green Route Energy Havard Engineering
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LAFARGE London Borough of Newham mcp engineering plastics n stones bUILDERS Robetrson Timber Engineering Silicone Composites South & City Collage Birmingham South Tyneside College Sowga Texone Vulcan Refractories
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From the Editor Welcome to another month of Construction & Engineering Monthly, Marking our first issue since our expansion into Construction & Engineering Monthly, this month will provide you with a variety of in-depth looks at a multitude of companies, such as specialist engineering company Airius, innovative solar thermal systems installation company Green Route Energy and the latest advanced technology from Quadratec. It promises to be a truly fantastic issue and I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as we have enjoyed putting it together. I would like to thank all the companies who are involved within the issue and who have helped make the issue as good as it is. Engineering Monthly Magazine is now available to download via our free app on all mobile devices.. As we are now available on more and more devices we are therefore giving our advertisers and feature companies more and more exposure. We have been receiving a lot more testimonials as we are constantly improving and learning. Yours sincerely, Andy Feltrup Editor-in-Chief
Director Luke Feltrup Features Manager Dale Livesey Production Director Stanford Ellis Designer Tanya Ellis Editor-in-Chief Andrew Feltrup Editorial Paige Fraser Accounts Joanne Cowan
Contributing Writers
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All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is forbidden except with permission in writing from the publishers. Note to contributors: articles submitted for consideration by the editor must be the original work of the author and not previously published. where photographs are included, which are not the property of the contributor, permission to reproduce them must have been obtained from the copyright owner. The editor cannot guarantee a personal response to all letters and emails received. While every care has been taken in the preperation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or information herein, or any consequence arising from it. In the case of company or product reviews or comments, these have been based upon the true and honest opinion of the editor at the time of going to press.
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News MORGAN ADVANCED MATERIALS EXTENDS REFLECTOR GLAZE RANGE
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eveloped for high-energy pulsed Q-switching infrared laser applications, a new, highabsorption samarium oxide glaze from Morgan Advanced Materials means it is now able to offer three grades of glaze for laser systems. The samarium glaze absorbs radiation at the Nd-YAG lasing wavelength of 1,064nm, and its further transitions near 940nm, 1120nm, 1320nm and 1440nm. A significant amount of fluorescent radiation at the lasing wavelength escapes laterally from the laser rod into the surrounding pumping cavity. Absorbing this radiation prevents it from being reflected back into the laser rod, which would in turn stimulate decay from the upper laser transition level, thereby limiting the number of excited ions which can occupy that level. By preventing this decay, the maximum output energy obtained from the laser is increased. Morgan’s high- absorption samarium oxide glaze is formulated through the controlled addition of
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dopant to create optimum reflectance properties
applications such as industrial metal cutting.
Applying the glaze to Morgan’s Sintox AL laser pump cavity material produces the high diffuse reflectivity required to achieve uniform illumination of the laser rod surface. Providing typically 98 per cent reflectance in the desired wavelength range, the new samarium oxide glaze matches yellow (GSY) and clear (GSO) glazes between 700 nm and 900nm. The optimum reflectance capability across the range of three glazes now spans wavelengths of around 580nm up to 2,000nm.
“The new glaze perfectly complements our existing yellow glaze - which reduces laser cavity temperatures by absorbing extremely low wavelengths, meaning less cooling fluid needs to be used – as well as our clear glaze, which seals ceramic reflectors against the ingress of cooling fluid.”
Yannick Galais of from Morgan explains: “As diode laser technology becomes more specialised, we continually evaluate our glaze formulations, in partnership with leading laser manufacturers, to improve the reliability of new equipment. Our samarium oxide glaze improves performance in the specified wavelength range and is suitable for high-energy, niche
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Morgan’s laser reflectors are produced from high-performance alumina-based ceramic and boast high strength, good thermal conductivity and excellent dimensional and electrical stability at all operating temperatures. A cost-effective alternative to metal-coated reflectors, ceramic reflectors are also resistant to chemical attack and, when sealed with one of Morgan’s glazes, benefit from an increased life span and reduced total cost of ownership.
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Latest News technopolymer products for applications which up to now were reserved for metals, it is necessary to bring considerable expertise to the design phase of any such component, so as to ensure the maximum exploitation of all the typical features of polymers, by optimizing shape and thickness in various areas, combined with the benefits of a lower density of material.
The use of SuperTechnopolymer as a substitute for metal/ stainless steel in standard machine components
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ackground to the use of technopolymer Despite the spread of polymers for technical products dating back to a relatively recent era (e.g. polyamide-based polymers in the USA after the Second World War and polypropylene-based ones after Giulio Natta’s research in 1954, at Politecnico di Milano, Milan - Italy n.d.t. a Scientific- technological University) the so called engineering plastics have now taken a firm place in our everyday life, replacing materials previously deemed “noble” such as metal alloys, glass or wood. The most technologically advanced industries, for example automotive, aerospace and electronics, long ago understood the many benefits arising from the use of these engineering plastics and have promoted the creation of research centres to develop new high-performance polymers. Such that today 50% of the volume of the materials present in a modern motor car are made of high grade plastic materials, with uses until very recently quite unthinkable, such as air intake manifolds, engine components, lights, doors and hatches. With more than 70-years of experience, Elesa has been a pioneer in the design and production of standard components for industrial machines and equipment, focusing from the beginning on the use of polymers while paying great attention to the development of specialist new technopolymers thanks to an active collaboration with Politecnico di Torino, (Turin), a particular centre of research for the automotive industry, also with Proplast of Alessandria, technology centre for the engineering of polymeric materials. Development of SUPER-Technopolymer as a Metal replacement “SUPER-Technopolymers” represent the most recent and advanced development in engineering of polymeric materials. Thanks to the presence of high percentages of glass fibre linked to the base polymer with suitable primers and/or the presence of aramid synthetic fibre, SUPER- Technopolymers are characterized by mechanical and thermal properties far superior to the traditional polymers.
The use of SUPER-Technopolymers coupled with decadeslong experience and expertise at ELESA in the design and moulding of plastic materials, have made possible the creation of an advanced range of components for machines such as hinges, indexing plungers, cam-levers and column level indicators with protection frames which used to be available on the market only in metal alloys. Mechanical and thermal properties, of these products are such as to allow their interchangeability with the corresponding metal products, offering the additional advantages of corrosion resistance and lightness typical of plastic materials. This is why we can say with confidence that SUPERTechnopolymer components integrate the typical advantages of plastics with some of the strengths of steel and stainless steel. The additional mechanical strength of SUPER-Technopolymer opens up some of the lighter and medium duty applications once only possible with metal components. The result being that by using a SUPER-Technopolymer the component is more cost effective since this removes a big percentage of the metal content, and so a big part of the cost. Which especially in the case of a previously stainless steel product, leads to a large cost saving whilst maintaining high levels of corrosion resistance. Main advantages of SUPER-Technopolymers - Corrosion resistance: therefore suitable for use in wet environments or outdoors or on applications requiring frequent cleaning cycles (food machinery, pharmaceutical, etc.) - Lightness: in addition to cost reduction for transport, storage and handling, the lightness of components made out of SUPER-Technopolymer represents a definite advantage for applications on machines or equipment subject to frequent movement or intended for goods handling. - Absence of maintenance: the low friction coefficient of polymers avoids periodic lubrication of the component in particular for those made in self-lubricating plastic material. - Non-magnetic: plastic components are not affected by magnetic fields. - Electrical insulation: preventing the passage of electrical energy through the body of the component. This is a safety factor for all components that can be in contact with the operator’s hands. - Addition of colour in the moulded material, offers advantages in terms of quality and duration over painted components (the finish cannot be removed), it also proves economical for reasonable quantities as the cost becomes close to that of standard polymers. Tel: 01526 322670 www.elesa.co.uk
The concept of “metal replacement” is not limited to the use of high-performance engineering plastics. In order to produce
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Fugro Seacore: Concordia recovery “one of the toughest” A
s Costa Concordia completed its final voyage to Genoa last week, Fugro Seacore described the race to secure its massive parbuckling platform as one of the toughest projects in the company’s 38-year history. With the wreck balanced precariously on a steep, rocky outcrop, Titan Salvage and Italian engineers Tecon turned to Fugro to install 26 foundation piles for the huge undersea table that would prevent Concordia sliding to greater depths, and enable her to be salvaged intact. The installation was complicated by the 45 degree angle of the outcrop, the hard but fissured rock, and the requirement to protect the area’s sensitive ecosystem by capturing all drilling waste. Because the wreck was already showing signs of breakup, the 1000t platform sections were manufactured while
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drilling work was still underway, making absolute accuracy essential. With a margin for error of less than 10cm, and one degree from vertical, Fugro used purpose-made drilling templates with remotely operated leg-jacking systems to ensure each of the 2m diameter piles, grouted securely into the 12-14m rock sockets, would fit the platform perfectly. To create the tight seal necessary to collect the waste, without drawing up surrounding sands and corals into the drill casing, Fugro marine installation services manager Sam Whitaker and his team developed a new combination of forward flush and reverse circulation drilling techniques. He commented: “We’ve done some tough jobs over the years, and this was up there with the toughest. Nobody has ever attempted anything like this before, so we had to design and build the whole thing from scratch.
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“The 45 degree slope and granite strength of 150mpa would have been tricky enough. But the need to keep everything sealed, capture up to 600 cubic metres of waste every hour – and to do the whole thing quickly before the wreck could break up any further – added an extra dimension. “It’s well documented that this is one of the hardest recovery operations in maritime history, so it’s satisfying to see the end product. We’re proud to lend our drilling experience to such an important, international effort, and hopefully to provide some closure to the families affected by this tragedy.” Tel: 07768 27305 www.swhitaker@seacore.com
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SHEPHERD ENGINEERING SERVICES ANNOUNCES NEW M&E PROJECT AT £90M KING’S CROSS DEVELOPMENT
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ational building services provider Shepherd Engineering Services (SES) has announced it has been awarded the M&E contract on a £90m development at one of the most significant regeneration schemes in Central London. Working alongside main contractor Carillion, SES expects to save 15,000 hours on site at the P1 Building at King’s Cross during its £13m design and installation of all M&E works within the major new residential scheme also comprising two new schools, through its industry leading ‘build before you build’ approach. SES will use its market-leading prefabrication facility PRISM to deliver a series of innovative off-site solutions on the build, which incorporates 255 apartments across 10 floors. This approach will significantly reduce cost and programme, labour hours spent on site and result in a safer on-site working environment. Due to complete in Autumn 2015, the build will represent another significant milestone for the King’s Cross development, set to transform the heart of central London with the creation of 50 new buildings, 2,000 new sustainable homes, 20 new streets and 10 new public squares across 67 acres. It is anticipated that the development, which will in itself require a new postcode, N1C, will see 45,000 people live, work and study in the area. The scheme demonstrates the scale of the city’s ambition to deliver both vital and nationallyunrivalled housing and infrastructure provision.
“As a business we are committed to providing workable practical solutions to any on site challenge which is essential on a project of this size and scale in our capital city.” He added that the SES team has also worked to ensure the residential building incorporates an array of new environmentally friendly technology. “For example, our engineers have spent a significant amount of time researching solutions for the apartment LED lighting to ensure that sustainability is at the core of our design and approach. “We were also tasked to ensure that the building was fully compliant with the King’s Cross development’s shared Combined Heat and Power Plant (CHP) which provides energy to a large number of buildings on the scheme. These environmentally friendly centralised district systems ensure maximum levels of sustainability and economical energy across King’s Cross.” Carillion Project Director, Ian Cordery, said: “SES’s experience in this sector has been invaluable so far, seeing them meet every challenge presented with carefully considered options that meet our exacting standards and requirements for this build. “The modular solutions and off-site manufacturing utilised by SES will ensure the process runs smoothly. When the design is properly considered in advance, this is a win-win construction method. “We look forward to a continued close working relationship with SES to ensure the ambitions of this project are met.”
The off-site manufactured elements delivered by SES will include 255 Service Cupboards, one for each apartment that incorporates mechanical and electrical plant and equipment including a heat interface unit, heat recovery unit, underfloor heating manifolds, consumer unit, BT Home Hub and space for a washing machine. The unit represents a high quality off-site completion of what would otherwise have required multiple trades on-site working in a congested area. In addition, SES PRISM have delivered all the main service risers covering 7 riser shafts each extending over 50m incorporating 3km of finished and tested pipework, ductwork and electrical containment. Each has been designed specifically with prefabrication in mind to deliver valuable efficiencies at every stage of the build. Tim Cunningham, SES’s London & South East Regional Director, believes his firm’s commitment to ensuring effective close collaboration with the broader project team is integral to the ongoing success of the P1 Building. Tim commented: “A significant factor in the successful design, planning and procurement stages has been the open-plan offices and collaborative culture we share with Carillion, all contractors and our on-site operatives, design team and PRISM. “We are already seeing the benefit of this approach and are programming a significant reduction in the forecasted construction period as a result. “Our PRISM facility is at the forefront of M&E installations, meaning we can offer the most effective solutions to even the most technically complex projects, adding real value to our clients.
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Knovel Introduces Interactive Tool for Finding, Solving and Sharing Engineering Equations
Knovel Interactive Equations pairs essential equations and ready-to-use calculation software
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E
quations are the life blood of engineers, but research shows growing dissatisfaction with the choices for finding the equations needed to solve the problems engineers face. Recognizing this gap, Knovel introduced a better option for engineers. Knovel Interactive Equations, now available via Knovel’s cloud-based platform, launches with hundreds of validated engineering equations that engineers can search through, solve and share in a variety of formats. A 2013 Knovel Engineering Survey found that roughly one-third of engineers rely on equations multiple times per day. Knovel Interactive Equations applies Knovel’s years of expertise in engineering research and development to help engineers solve many of the common and uncommon challenges they face. Highlights of the offering include: · Hundreds of equations with detailed descriptions of variables and their units, formulas, the original sources with links to references and citations, along with worked calculation examples, all in one place
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· Web-based Equation Solver software that can be used without local installation or IT support · Responsive design that allows users to find and solve equations on desktop computers or tablets · B u i l t - i n i n t e r a c t i ve e q u a t i o n worksheets for quick calculations such as calculating a specific value, converting to specifi¬c units or performing what-if calculations · Ability to create new worksheets using any combination of text, math and units for engineering equations and formulas, pictures and graphs ·
Support for engineering units
· Support for exporting calculations to multiple formats “When engineers load their favorite calculation tool, they shouldn’t be confronted with a blank screen or an empty grid. They should be able to quickly and easily choose from – and customize – the equations they use every day,” said Sasha Gurke, Elseviers’ Engineering Fellow & Co-Founder –
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Knovel. “As more equations are added, Knovel Interactive Equations will become the first stop online anytime engineers need to solve and reference equations.” Knovel Interactive Equations is a powerful productivity tool for engineers, offering a convenient and unique workspace and calculator. Users have access to validated, discoverable equations and corresponding calculation examples. Knovel Interactive Equations launches with hundreds of equations available across five subject areas including Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Mechanics & Mechanical Engineering, Metals and Metallurgy, Electronics & Semiconductors and General Engineering & Project Administration. Knovel Interactive Equations are available to customers with subscriptions to these subject areas.
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NEWS:
INGENIOUS ENABLING TECHNOLOGY SET TO REVOLUTIONISE CONNECTOR DESIGN C
orcoran Connectors’ innovative connector technology has the potential to transform any industry where structural frameworks need to be assembled securely and quickly. The company has most recently been working with major players in the aluminium trussing industry, designing connectors for temporary structures. Their singleunit, push-fit X2 connector eliminates the need for nuts, bolts, clips or pins, allowing truss modules to be joined in seconds, saving time and labour costs. “I found it hard to believe that, in the
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21st century, we were still nailing trusses together,” says their Australian inventor, Allen Corcoran. “A push-fit connector has long been the holy grail for truss systems in the events, exhibition and staging industry, and my invention has been described as the most significant innovation the market has seen in 20 years.
“My interest began when I was asked to design a race-car space-frame for a computer simulator game. I wanted to create something quick and easy for anyone to assemble and disassemble. I thought it would be simple to find a push-fit, load-bearing device to connect
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tubular structures but there was nothing out there.” As a result Corcoran developed this unique enabling technology to join different tube sizes with high load requirements. The potential exists to use his connectors in a great many industries, and also in extreme environments, under water and while wearing gloves. They can be made in different materials for a wide range of end-uses from transitional disaster-relief shelters to flat-pack furniture. Initial tensile load testing has shown that a single 48.3mm dia. X2 connector can carry a load of 6000kg. It retains a strong mechanical grip by using a balllock system similar to hydraulic and pneumatic pipe couplings. The clever part is the activation system. The X2 connects behind truss chord collars but alternative designs can carry a substantial load on stock tubing, without the need for collars. Corcoran Connectors is also developing a design which incorporates a load sensor to allow on- or off-site structural analysis. “With many variations of design open to us, protected by our worldwide (PCT) patent pending, we can take this enabling technology into nearly any market where quick, quiet, safe and efficient structural assembly is important,” says Corcoran. The company is currently looking for partners to help introduce this enabling technology into different markets and to assist with its development.
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SDI Group’s Maintenance Support steps up a gear S
DI Group, the global integrator of automated material handling systems, has expanded its Maintenance Support operations by 70% in the last twelve months, signalling a growing imperative for businesses to achieve maximum uptime of critical automated logistics processes.
“As store replenishment and ecommerce operations become more complex and time-sensitive, businesses are becoming increasingly dependent on sophisticated automated materials handling systems to achieve store replenishment in single items and extended cut-off times for online orders. Mechanical or software failure can quickly affect dispatch performance, impacting customer
service and ultimately brand value, so ensuring any issues are dealt with swiftly is absolutely vital.” says Barry Pemberton, head of UK support operations at SDI Group. SDI Group has a fast developing systems maintenance business, providing fulltime, on-site engineers for many of the world’s leading retail brands, across multiple international territories. In the UK, the company has recently secured a three-year contract to maintain all three of George at Asda’s UK distribution centres on a 24/7 basis.
deploying highly trained engineers to problem sites under strict KPIs to ensure maximum system uptime. Maintenance Support also makes regular visits to smaller systems and operations where there are no on-site engineers – and provide accident, sickness and holiday cover for on-site teams. SDI Group’s Maintenance and Support operations cover installations designed and built by both SDI Group and other manufacturers, and are coordinated from a network of offices across Europe, the USA and major regional markets.
Maintenance Support provides aroundthe-clock backup for automated systems under maintenance contract, helping to support on-site maintenance teams by
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CONSTRUCTION:
8 Build
8 star service
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stablished by 8 people in 2005, 8build operates with the philosophy of a business that drives honesty back into the London construction market with a ‘Client First’ approach to delivery. The business has grown steadily since inception, carrying out work of all types; fit out, refurbishment and new build, working in a variety of sectors including commercial fit out, high-end residential, schools and higher education, museums, bars and restaurants. They also expanded their reach within the APAC region by opening an office in Singapore which has been a great success. They have a wide range of services including the management of all types of construction projects. They employ 110 managers who are all multi skilled at delivering all types of projects. With the recent signs that the economy is returning from the recessive era that followed the demise of Leman Brothers, 8build have instigated an optimistic restructure to have a solid team in place that will enable them to surf on top of the wave rather than be left behind in
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CONSTRUCTION:
8 Build
They have built a very strong fit out team that are ready for the commercial market to return with strength
the becalmed waters that may follow. They have built a very strong fit out team that are ready for the commercial market to return with strength, and they have enhanced their new build and refurbishment capabilities with appointments of key business leaders and deliverers. 8build’s client base is varied across the various sectors; they work directly for individuals, large corporates, charities, small and large developers, and many more. They pride themselves on being agile and adaptable enough to adjust their approach to work with a diverse group of clients. Given the large volume of potential tenders, 8build are having to be selective with the categories of work and contract types that they engage with to ensure they maintain the quality of service that they have developed a reputation of delivering. They are also conscious that whilst there is potential to win a large volume of work at present, they need to be measured in what they pitch for in order to allocate the right resource and management.
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CONSTRUCTION:
8 Build
They are, as a business, very conscious of the effects they have on the environment and invest in schemes that off-set the carbon they produce to make them ‘carbon neutral’. They recently invested in PVs at their head office which contribute to reducing the energy they consume. They also consistently divert 100% of their construction waste from land fill. However, when they are involved with delivering projects, the environmental agenda is often dictated by the client and their professional team; whilst they can minimise their impact, the overall impact of the project is out of their hands. They also take a very practical approach to Health and Safety and believe that good practice ensures that individuals return home in the evening in the same condition as they left in the morning. By engaging with the workforce in practical steps to mitigate risk and injury they are able to maintain a very high standard across all of their projects. Going forward they aim for a slow, but steady growth in all sectors and to further enhance their skills and specialisations in these various sectors within which they work. They always wave an eye on the recruitment market to monitor management staff that are looking to move from their existing employment. In the current market, good and experienced people are becoming available and often worthy of interview and employment. All of their projects are of value to their success; reputation is the most important aspect for any businesses and all of their clients are valued and are as important as any other. They look to employ and train the best people who are passionate about what they do, and in doing so they deliver in a consistent manner that aims to continuously improve and enhance their product.
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rear of Flowers Farm, Hemel Hempstead Road, Redbourn, Hertfordshire AL3 7AE Tel. 01582 792954 07769 970943, 07778 565661, 07811 399716 info@oakridgeconstruction.co.uk www.oakridgeconstruction.co.uk
Providing the following services– o o o o o o o
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Groundworks RC Frames Drainage External works Enabling works Specialist builderswork Specialist demolitions
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MICROLISE & TATA MOTORS PARTNERSHIP TO ‘TRANSFORM’ INDIA’S COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT INDUSTRY
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ICROLISE, the transport management solutions firm, is to provide pioneering technology to Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicles manufacturer, in a move which is expected to transform the country’s commercial transport industry. In a multi-million pound deal signed today (thurs), the five-year contract will see Microlise supply Tata Motors with its specialist fleet telematics. Microlise will supply the company with in-vehicle hardware and a web-based portal to allow Tata Motors customers to manage their transport fleets efficiently and safely. Microlise, the £25 million turnover market leader in the transport telematics sector, has been speaking to global giant Tata Motors for several months. Micolise’s products enable customers to reduce operating costs and environmental impact by maximising the efficiency of their transportation. Ravi Pisharody, executive director of the commercial vehicles business unit at Tata Motors in New Delhi, said: “As the leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in India, we have been spearheading the change in the Indian transport industry for many years now. “We as Tata Motors wish to lead the shift towards electronic control of drivelines and other vehicle systems. We also wish to harness the power and potential of such a digital approach by introducing advanced telematics and fleet management services. Tata FleetMan’s partnership with Microlise is a step in that direction. We firmly believe that this association has the potential to transform the way commercial vehicle fleets are managed in India.” Nadeem Raza, MD at Microlise, said: “Microlise is extremely proud and excited to be working with Tata Motors. The cultural fit between the two organisations, and a very clear shared vision, has meant that both companies have been able to develop the new Tata FleetMan system, ensuring that it will not only address the requirements of
Indian transport companies today, but will continue to deliver future features and functions, to meet ever increasing demands that will be placed on transport operations as the exciting growth story in the Indian economy continues. “The new Tata FleetMan system will be based on the market leading Microlise platform that is currently installed in over 150,000 vehicles around the world and used by some of the biggest transport and logistics companies like DHL, Tesco and Carrefour for significant cost savings and efficiency improvements.” Microlise’s primary base of operations is in the UK where the majority of customers are based. It operates internationally across 139 countries and provides products in 28 languages. Tata Motors launched the Tata Fleetman Telematics and Fleet Management services brand in India two years ago, in response to growing market needs for better fleet control and greater fleet utilisation. As market leader, Tata Motors recognised while basic services served transporters well, it needed the right partner to meet customers’ needs for more sophisticated and technologically complex applications. Along with the introduction of service products in these areas, the partnership with Microlise will also start ongoing development of the new Tata Fleetman system, addressing future needs of the logistics and transportation Industry.
Some of the advanced Fleet Telematics applications and services planned for introduction by the partnership include: Emergency SOS: A panic button will be provided in the vehicles through which the driver can send an SOS message to the transport owner in an emergency. Trip management: A versatile tool to track and evaluate individual vehicle trips in real time against a standard in a multi-level, multi-user framework. Trip management helps achieve significant improvements in fleet utilisation and reduction in communication costs and idle times. Driving assessment: Since drivers are the most important resource factor of transport operations, the driving assessment solution continuously evaluates drivers on a range of parameters impacting safety and economy. Suitable consultancy and retraining is then employed to improve overall fleet economy and safety record. Vehicle health management: A solution which can only be deployed in the new age electronically driven vehicles, vehicle health management helps in remote monitoring of a vehicles health including quick fault detection and rectification before it can lead to consequential failures. It also generates information on maintenance and fault trends which is invaluable for product planning and warranty cost reduction measures.
ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW:
Absolutsolar
Investing in our future Uniquely, ASAW support their customers at every stage of the installation process
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bsolute Solar and Wind is a Glasgow based renewables company born from the ambition of brothers Mark and Richard Newall to make the world a greener, more economic place. Founded in 2007, the business has grown significantly – remaining true to its five core brand values: Contemporary technology, Trust, Uncompromised quality, Local contact, Support and professional image. The company, which relies on skilled staff who are trained to the highest standards to install a range of renewable systems, has remained largely unaffected by the economic downturn, and now employs more than 30 staff. Here, ASAW’s Managing Director Mark Newall tells us why. “Renewables is a hot topic,” Mark says. “Businesses and consumers alike are looking for innovative, effective ways to drive down the cost of powering and heating a home, office, factory or farm. People are also drawn to renewables because of the benefits solutions such as wind turbines or Solar PV systems can have on the environment.” Not content with simply ‘getting by’, in 2011 the company’s operating area was expanded when ASAW South Ltd was opened in Norwich. In 2013 the business underwent further readjustment in the form of major restructure to separate domestic business from commercial. The domestic PV arm now trades under sister company Absolute Renewable Energy Ltd, with Absolute Solar and Wind continuing to build on its core brand values within the small wind turbine and large solar and Biomass sector, and is the only Scottish distributor for the preeminent air de-stratification unit-Airius. ASAW has an in-house team of advisors and installers who are trained to the
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highest standing and have a wealth of experience with degree qualified electrical engineers, Scottish Joint Industry Board approved electricians and product specific trained technicians all part of set-up. The business also uses strict quality criteria to decide what products they will work with – ensuring that their highly trained staff are installing highly trusted products.
now works regularly with businesses, farmers and land owners.”
“Over the years we have developed extensive supplier relations with strong buying power ensuring that we have the ability to deliver quality products at competitive prices,” said Mark.
Mark said: “The systems we provide include solar panels, wind turbines, and biomass. For premises that are not connected to the UK’s national energy grid, and who want to generate their own on site electricity, we also provide off-grid solutions.
“Boosting our credibility, the team at ASAW have a multitude of experience with renewables systems, with over 10 Mega Watts of renewable energy installed and a thorough understanding of extensive grid connection and planning permission. We also employ an internal design team who have access to all the necessary software, which means that they can customise and optimise renewable systems for each individual customer.” Uniquely, ASAW support their customers at every stage of the installation process. The company offers site hosting for wind turbines and, unlike other companies that run similar schemes, ASAW will manage and complete the full project cycle from initial introductory discussions, G59 grid connection applications and lease agreement to installation and annual maintenance. To ensure stability the company exploits a number of routes to market, including existing client base referrals, strategic partnerships, telemarketing, trade shows and web based marketing. “Initially the ASAW customer base was mostly domestic,” Mark said. “But as the company developed, this focus shifted and we
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The organisation also installs a range of renewable energy systems which enable individuals and businesses to generate their own power, saving them money on energy bills as well as providing a clean and environmentally friendly energy source.
“We are an ISO approved company, which enables us to define, establish and maintain an effective Quality Assurance System that customers and suppliers worldwide know and trust.” ISO not only provides a good foundation for ASAW’s business and partnerships, but also continually helps them to improve their work by allowing them to look at more efficient and effective processes to grow and expand their market. Mark concluded: “In the future we aim to increase the number of properties that make use of renewable systems. It makes sense, not only from an economic but also an environmental viewpoint. Renewable solutions save money, and help to reduce the amount of pollution and environmental damage caused by the use of fossil fuels.”
ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW::
Absolutsolar
ReneSola international leading brand and technology provider of green energy products Supported by local sales team, warehouses and local technical support High quality green energy products: • Solar modules – top performing advanced Virtus II technology • Inverters • Lithium Ion Energy Storage solutions from 2kw – 9kw • LED lights – high performance, low energy, extensive range
ReneSola UK Suite 1-3 the Hub, 3 Drove Road, Newhaven, East Sussex BN9 0AD
Tel: + 44 800 988 6868 Email: infouk@renesola.com www.engineeringmonthly.co.uk
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COUNCIL FEATURE:
Argyll and Bute Council
Argyll and Bute Council introducing a draft parking policy framework Members agreed at yesterday’s Policy and Resources Committee to endorse the draft parking policy
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his new policy aims to ensure consistency in regard to parking policy across the council area, while recognising the specific needs of our different administrative areas. Members also agreed to a formal process whereby area committees can review local traffic regulation orders (TROs), effectively giving local members control of parking issues, within the broader parameters of the Argyll and Bute parking framework. Members recognise that a ‘one size fits all’ approach would not work in Argyll and Bute, with its huge area and diverse local needs. As such, the policy formalises the arrangement whereby TROs are within the power of area committees, allowing parking to be managed at a local level. If an area committee was minded to change the existing charging arrangements or to introduce new
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charging arrangements this would have to go through the council’s executive committee process, as is normal practice.
outcome of the member workshops and the amount of change proposed to the current arrangements.
The parking policy effectively formalises what is already reflected in current custom and practice, providing the council with an overarching framework for the provision and control of parking across Argyll and Bute, where none previously existed. Following the approval at yesterday’s (Thursday 21 August) committee meeting, area based proposals will be developed through member workshops and area committees over the winter.
Area committees will then formalise the proposed changes to TROs and confirm the implementation timeline, with the finalised policy then being taken to the full council for adoption.
Local members will consider a number of factors such as the level of provision, the extent of charged and free spaces, the distribution of available parking as well as local nuances.
To ensure this parking turnover the council has recently taken on the responsibility for the enforcement of parking regulations across the Argyll and Bute. We have employed new amenity wardens who patrol all areas of Argyll and Bute where parking restrictions are in force. These include, but are not limited to, areas with yellow lines, pay
Following these local proposals will come a period of stakeholder consultation, the range of which will depend on the
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The council’s parking strategy is aimed at increasing the parking turnover in our town centres, which in turn supports the local economy - ensuring that there are spaces available for people to park and access local shops.
COUNCIL FEATURE:
Argyll and Bute Council
and display bays, loading and unloading areas, disabled bays, limited waiting areas and off-street parking areas. Vehicles caught parking illegally are now issued with a penalty charge notice (PCN). In line with national guidelines, the PCN is set at £60, to be paid within 28 days. If paid within 14 days, the charge is reduced to £30. If unpaid, the charge increases to £90. Unpaid PCNs could result in the council instructing sheriff officers to pursue recovery of the debt, which may incur additional costs. The policy also aims to improve road safety, manage traffic effectively and to encourage a shift towards more ecofriendly transport means. This policy sits within the council’s policy context, supporting the outcomes of the single outcome agreement (SOA): sustaining the viability of our town centres, encouraging healthier lifestyles and reducing traffic congestion.
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ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW:
Airius
Suppliers of the world’s most effective and efficient destratification systems
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ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW:
Airius
Airius prides itself on offering the highest standard of service and support for all its customers, offering surveys free of charge to its prospective customers www.engineeringmonthly.co.uk
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ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW:
Airius With higher energy savings than any other destratification system, Airius offers its clients customisability, attractive aesthetics, versatility, adaptability and extremely low energy consumption. Over the past 10 years, Airius has built up an impressive client list, supplying its award winning solutions to major blue chip companies such as Morrisons, Mercedes, Boots and British Airways. Stephen Bridges, says: “Our dedication to destratification and investment into research and development has led us to become the leaders and knowledge experts in the field. Airius’ in-house Research and Development, with a spend of over $11 million, set to continue over the coming years, concentrates on the development and supply of the world’s most efficient and cost effective destratification system available.”
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irius was established in the USA in 2004, which later expanded and developed Bournemouth based sister company, Airius Europe Ltd in 2006. Airius Europe is the primary distribution arm of the company providing products for the European, Middle East, African and Asian markets. The Company supplies the world’s most effective and efficient destratification systems, providing the highest energy savings possible from any destratification system. The company is growing rapidly, seeing an outstanding 150% growth over the past two years, and is continuously introducing new products. Prior to the launch of Airius
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products in the UK, destratification fan sales were between 300-500 units a year. Since then, market sales have risen steadily, with over 80,000 destratification fans sold worldwide to date. Airius has proven to have an impressive impact on the market. Airius prides itself on offering the highest standard of service and support for all its customers, offering surveys free of charge to its prospective customers, along with detailed quotations and proposals, energy reduction estimates, installation placement guides, as well as post sales follow ups to make sure customers’ needs and expectations are met to the highest standard.
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The goal of destratification is to achieve thermal equalisation - in other words, to balance temperatures between the floor and ceiling. To fully destratify and achieve maximum savings it is vital to affect every inch of air in the space. The only way to accomplish this it to ensure airflow from the ceiling reaches the floor and spreads into every corner. Only Airius’ fans are designed to continuously move a column of air to the floor, similar to a ducted system, but without the need for ducting and avoiding any draught disturbances. It then spreads out in 360° throughout the space, blanketing along the floor and underneath any obstructions - a unique, patented method which is proven to achieve full temperature equalisation (within a 2°C band) in any space, reducing heating/ cooling costs and CO2 emissions for their clients by up to 50%, sometimes more. In 2013, in response to requests from facilities managers, architects and building owners for a more stylish design, Airius launched the Designer Series range. This new range offers the same features, benefits and technology as the original but is enclosed in a cylindrical aluminium housing and can be tailored to any custom colour to compliment all architectural designs – saving energy in style! This year, Airius has launched the Pure Air Series. As well as providing destratification, the Airius PureAir air purification and odour control system
ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW:
Airius
reduces viruses, bacteria, gases, mould and odours by more than 90 per cent, creating clean, healthy and odour free indoor spaces. Over the last few years, Airius has enjoyed numerous successes, including winning the ‘Innovation Award for Environmental Technology’ at the highly coveted Environment and Energy Awards 2014, held as part of The Sustainability Live Exhibition, where it fought off stiff competition from retail giant B&Q to scoop the Award. Stephen Bridges, Managing Director at Airius Europe says:“We are honoured that Airius has won such a highly regarded industry award and delighted that our technology has been acknowledged for its innovation with the presentation of this prestigious award.” Furthermore, Airius recently announced a deal with Edmundson Electrical to supply the nationwide chain of electrical wholesalers with its ground-breaking destratification fans. Covering the length and breadth of the UK, the Airius team has trained over 100 Edmundson Electrical employees about its patented thermal destratification fans. Delegates have learnt the science of thermal destratification, how the unique fans work and how to design an Airius Solution. In addition, throughout 2014, one of Airius’ main focuses has been growing the destratification market in Asia and the Middle East.
reducing carbon footprints. We have also recently undertaken a lot of work on the redesign of our customer service research process which now includes new questionnaires and incentives for customers who take the time to respond with testimonials and case studies. In addition, our on-going PR and Marketing strategy, now incorporating web, advertising and social media, will
help to increase understanding and widespread knowledge of the benefits of destratification.” With the impressive growth seen over the past 12 months, Airius will be looking to expand both its marketing and customer service divisions in the very near future.
When asked about the company’s plans for the future, Stephen commented: “Our long term aim is to continue supplying the world’s most efficient, effective and versatile range of destratification fans that provide the highest savings possible from any destratification system. We endeavour to continue to be the world leaders and knowledge experts in the field of destratification. Stephen continues: “To help achieve our long-term aims, we intend on exhibiting at more exhibitions both in the UK and abroad. We are also redesigning our exhibition stand to make it more customer friendly, vibrant and effective in disseminating information. It will also incorporate new media technologies to convey the Airius message, features and benefits. This measure has been implemented due to potential customers taking a more serious approach to
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CONSTRUCTION:
Building Lives for people
Building lives
Supporting communities is close to the heart of the Travis Perkins Group who generously donated £2.2m to UK charities in 2012 If you are a Social Landlord / Local Authority or ALMO and have an empty space, for example a run down, unloved Community Centre, please get in touch. They’ll transform that space into a bespoke Training Academy in no time, helping your local residents into sustainable construction careers. In 2013 leading merchant Travis Perkins and Travis Perkins Managed Services kindly sponsored the Building Lives Star Apprentices campaign, which rewarded 10 apprentices for their hard-work and commitment with brand new tools worth £100. The campaign involved nominations from College Tutors, Apprentice Officers, NVQ Assessors and site staff every month. Nominations came flooding in and selecting winners has been very difficult.
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uilding Lives was established by Steve Rawlings, the founder of a successful construction company. Steve grew up in the East End and started as an Apprentice Roofer himself, 40 years ago. After discovering that 47% of people living in social housing were three generations unemployed, Steve decided he wanted to give something back. So in 2010, in partnership with a social landlord, college and homeless person’s charity, the first Building Lives Academy opened its doors in Camden. The first Academy proved very successful and they realised they had a model that really was helping to build the lives of lots of people. So they set about developing more partnerships and establishing more Academies. There are now nine Building Lives Academies across London.
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Each Academy is a unique and important collaboration of partners from various sectors. Partnerships are the backbone of Building Lives and they recognise they can’t do any of this alone. The huge team effort, is integral to the success of Building Lives. Although they are a Social Enterprise, Steve (our CEO) comes from a commercial background and has a great track record of running a successful company. Steve has applied this expertise to develop a sustainable Social Enterprise. They are always on the lookout for new construction partners so they can offer apprentices the exposure to as many different companies and building sites as possible. Therefore if you are a sub/ contractor who is in need of some fresh talent, please get in touch as they have some fantastic apprentices just itching to work with you.
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Supporting communities is close to the heart of the Travis Perkins Group who generously donated £2.2m to UK charities in 2012. The Building Lives team has been bowled over by the kind donation of toolboxes for Star Apprentices from Travis Perkins in addition to thousands of pounds worth of discounted tools for the new Building Lives Academy’s. Steve Rawlings, CEO and Founder of Building Lives, thanked Travis Perkins for their amazing contribution. www.buildinglives.uk.com
Woodberry Down. Investing in the skills that keep Britain’s heritage alive. Since 2010, Woodberry Down’s workforce has gone from having only 4 apprentices on site to 42 apprentices in 2014, creating exceptional value for business, the economy and the local community. For more information please contact us at the Woodberry Down Regeneration Project Office, Units A&B Riverside Apartments, Goodchild Road, London, N4 2BA or call +44 (0)207 977 9100.
www.woodberry-down.co.uk
Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies www.engineeringmonthly.co.uk
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COLLEGE REVIEW:
Canterbury College
Opening of new £10m in-patient facility at St Martin’s
M
ental health patients in east Kent will benefit from the very best care and treatment in the best facilities possible following the opening of a new 36 bed in-patient unit at St Martin’s Hospital in Canterbury, run by KMPT. A celebratory ceremony marked the formal opening of the new facility yesterday. The St Martin’s facility will become the east Kent centre of excellence for inpatient care, with the first patients due to be admitted on 1st November. From that date any adult needing to be admitted to hospital will go to St Martin’s. The opening of the £10m unit marks to completion of long term plans to centralise in- patient services in Canterbury and has been designed in conjunction with service users and carers. The unit has 36 beds to accommodate
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36 people during their most vulnerable time with a further 18 beds in the refurbished Anselm Ward on the same site. The beds in the new building are laid out in two units/wards (Foxglove and Bluebell) and these can be used flexibly to provide different combinations of bed numbers on each ward if required. All rooms are en-suite and there are landscaped, secure gardens that will improve the quality of care, patient access and experience, as well as being more efficient and effective for care and treatment. The Trust’s construction partner, Kier, has delivered the new unit on budget, and on time. The official opening was conducted by the Lord Mayor of Canterbury Cllr Robert Waters, accompanied by the Lady Mayoress, Mrs Sally Pickersgill. Service users, carers, staff and members of the Trust Board attended the ceremony and had the opportunity to tour the new wards.
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Lord Mayor of Canterbury Cllr Robert Waters said: “The building is a first class environment for patients to recover and for staff to work in. I am sure that when patients are admitted to the unit they will instantly recognise that they have the very best environment in which to recover from their mental health problems. “ At the centre of the building’s design has been a predominance of natural light and open, airy spaces throughout, by a variety of artwork on the theme of nature. Renowned wildlife photographer, Steve Bloom, unveiled the artwork in the new unit, which has been produced by Canterbury College students following a long term partnership to develop the names and wildlife themes for the new wards. Katherine Phillips, a student from Canterbury College who worked on the
COLLEGE REVIEW:
Canterbury College beyond the confines of the building, so that no one feels trapped or cut off. It’s a calming perspective, which is exactly what’s needed.” Carer Maggie Sheldrake said: “The word is wow! This is a fantastic building. For example, I love the way the windows in the reception area can open automatically if it gets too warm. And the bedrooms are so comfortable that I’m sure patients will feel happier while they’re staying in them.” Service User Recovery Lead Louise Jessup commented: “The artwork on display adds an extra factor. All of the rooms feel light, airy and safe.” And Head of Occupational Therapy in Acute Services, John Puddle, concluded: “Every detail – even the smallest aspects of the building – have been taken into account, thanks to help from the Kings Fund who provide guidance on how hospital environments can help Recovery. With calming colours, which service users helped us choose, and Canterbury College’s naturalistic themes in the artwork, overall we have tried to bring the outdoors
into the building, so that nature is reflected within the environment.” Speaking at the ceremony the Trust’s Chairman, Andrew Ling, said, “This marvelous new facility will be the cornerstone of our acute mental health services in the east of Kent for many years to come. It means that local people who need an in-patient stay will get their care in the best environment possible. I am proud that we are able to offer such a first class facility run by dedicated and skilled staff. We hope to avoid people being admitted to hospital, by treating more people in the community, but those in hospital will benefit and move more quickly to recovery if they are cared for in such a well designed unit.”
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REAL ESTATE:
Cushman & Wakefield
Anders Nordvall
Cushman & Wakefield G
lobal real estate adviser Cushman & Wakefield has announced the recruitment of seven leading partners from Catella Corporate Finance in Sweden to significantly bolster its capital markets presence in Sweden and the Nordic region.
This move by Cushman & Wakefield is aligned with its global strategy to ensure the business is a best-in-class service provider in all key real estate markets and gateway cities around the world. Widely regarded as being the market leaders for providing Swedish real estate investment advice, Anders Nordvall,Thomas Persson, Niklas Zuckerman, Per Hagman, Daniel Anderbring, Ola Jacobsson and Erik Dansbo will join the business at partnerlevel. Anders Nordvall will become the CEO of Cushman Wakefield in Sweden. The current Swedish CEO, Magnus Lange, will remain in post until the end of the year. Although currently dominated by domestic investors, Sweden is increasingly being targeted by international capital. This move will
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enable the new partners to tap into real estate capital flows from Asia, the Americas and Europe as they will form an integral part of Cushman & Wakefield’s highly regarded global investment team. They will also work closely with JanWillem Bastijn, Cushman & Wakefield’s head of EMEA capital markets and Koen Nevens, the business’ Benelux and Sweden chairman.
This follows the recent hire of James Beckham to lead Cushman & Wakefield’s capital markets team in London and is further evidence of the firm’s commitment to create a leading capital markets platform in Europe and globally. Cushman & Wakefield’s international CEO, Carlo Barel di Sant’Albano, said:“Momentum continues to build as investor confidence firmly returns to the European and global markets, with gateway cities being progressively more important in attracting capital into Europe. These new hires will transform our capital markets capability in Sweden and propel us into a position where we are a major player in the country for real estate investment advice.” Cushman & Wakefield recently reported record revenue and improved
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profitability in the first half of 2014. Its global capital markets group continued positive momentum with H1 2014 commission and service fee revenue growth of 20.2% as the improved credit environment and lower interest rates boosted capital flows across investor classes. High profile assignments included advising the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) on the purchase of trophy office building Pine Tower A for $447 million, which is the largest investment transaction in Seoul, South Korea this year. The business’ EMEA capital markets team transacted and advised on more than €26 billion of real estate deals last year, while the first half of 2014 has seen the practice involved in a raft of high profile transactions which resulted in it being ranked as the top UK broker in Q2 for acquisitions (according to CoStar UK's Commercial Property Investment Review Q2 2014)
REAL ESTATE:
Cushman & Wakefield
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COUNCIL FEATURE:
Fife Council
Road Safety in Leven Cut It Out – the Fife Community Safety Partnership event to highlight road safety – attracted over 120 people to Leven on 5th September.
H
eld at the West car park on Leven Prom, a staged accident with real vehicles showed the audience of drivers and passengers the way emergency services respond to road traffic collisions. Professionals from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service talked through their involvement and were available to give advice to the audience. Attendees were also able to speak to professionals at a number of information stalls, and were
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encouraged to try a driving simulator and collision simulator to highlight the importance of wearing seatbelts. Stephen Thomson, Station Manager with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said, “Road traffic collisions can have a huge and often devastating impact on people, services and the wider community. A few simple improvements to the way we drive can vastly improve road safety, and can only happen through educating people about the choices they make. “Cut It Out is a very worthwhile way of getting out into communities and
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speaking to drivers and passengers alike. It is also a valuable training exercise for all the partners involved and a chance to reduce road traffic collisions in Fife. We’ve had positive feedback from several young drivers, and hope that all involved consider the potential consequences of using mobile phones or other distractions whilst driving.
RESPONSIBLE ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS
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All our vehicles are fitted with ‘Dynafleet’ on line tracking and data systems which monitor all aspects of our vehicles and drivers performance. This system can be accessed by our customers on request. If you have a need for any of the services we offer, a waste problem to resolve or any related services you would like to discuss please contact us on 01259 728203 we’d be delighted to hear from you.
www.gogarlogistics.com | Tel: 01259 728203 | Email: enquiries@gogarlogistics.com
ADVERTORIAL:
Fine Tubes exotic alloys deliver ‘fit and forget’ tubing for deepwater oil & gas extraction where exceeding requirements is a “given”.
C
hanging Demands For Fine Tubes, currently celebrating its 70th anniversary, the oil & gas sector has long been a key market. From the technological advances that came with subsea drilling in the 1970s right up to the deepwater challenges of the present day, the company has responded to changing customer requirements with a consistent record of new product design and innovation. With oil and gas extraction moving into ever harsher and deeper environments, the demand for high pressure and highly corrosion-resistant tubing is rising. To meet that demand, tube manufacturers are increasingly using the latest exotic alloys to produce the tubing that is being deployed in operating environments
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specification
Working with both national energy companies and major engineering contractors in all of the world’s key oil & gas regions, Fine Tubes is manufacturing straight length and coiled tubing from a broad range of austenitic, super austenitic, duplex and super duplex stainless steels, titanium grades and nickel alloys. Designed to withstand operating pressures of up to 60,000Psi and with tensile strengths greater than 220ksi (1,515 MPa), tubing can be manufactured in sizes from 1.6mm (0.063”) OD up to 63mm (2.475") OD. The goal is truly ‘fit and forget’ tubing systems that will not only withstand the extreme pressures they are subjected to but also remove the need for unplanned intervention. Applications Fine Tubes has for some time been supplying a wide range of high performance tubes to leading oil & gas companies for the protection of their hydraulic control and instrumentation systems. During the oil & gas extraction process, mainly seamless precision tubing in straight lengths is used for instrumentation equipment that controls measuring devices and supplies hydraulic pumps and tools. The tubing is also used in onshore control panels,
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Fine Tubes
topside processing facilities, offshore subsea manifolds and templates up to 2,000m under the sea. Improvements in the technology for the enhanced exploitation of oil & gas fields have increasingly required the use of long continuous lengths of tubing. The benefits of this tubular technology have resulted in reduced operating costs, improved recovery methods and reduced capital expenditure by connecting downhole valves and chemical injection with remote and satellite wells to a fixed or floating central operating platform. Using a special orbital weld, Fine Tubes can manufacture coiled tubing for downhole hydraulic control and chemical injection lines, subsea hydraulic power and chemical injection lines, and smoothbore control lines used in fibre optic applications. Coils can be welded together to create tubing of almost any length - single coils up to 8,000m long are not unusual for sub-sea oil drilling projects. Materials As oil & gas extraction projects continue to extend into deeper, more hostile and corrosive environments, there is a noticeable trend away from using standard 316L type grades towards a range of better performing materials that
ADVERTORIAL:
Fine Tubes
can withstand higher pressures and resist corrosion more effectively. Super Duplex Stainless Steel The microstructures inside duplex stainless steels are approximately 50 per cent austenite and 50 per cent ferrite, and consequently share the physical properties of both ferritic and austenitic grades. Duplex stainless steels are resistant to the cracking caused by chloride stress corrosion in austenitic grades and have improved resistance to localised corrosion. This family of stainless steels has approximately twice the yield strength of their counterpart austenitic grades which means they can be used to design thinner gauge tubing. Higher hardness values also provide better wear resistance for high precision tubes. Duplex steels are easily welded and formed, similar to austenitic grades. Depending on chromium, nickel and molybdenum content, duplex stainless steels are divided into four main categories: lean duplex, duplex, super duplex and hyper duplex. This group of alloys has great advantages in both material and engineered fabrication costs. Typical applications for this alloy group include heat exchanger tubes, umbilicals, structural tanks, pipes and fittings, and seawater handling systems. 904L UNS NO8904, commonly known as 904L, is a low carbon high alloy austenitic stainless steel which is widely used in applications where the corrosion properties of AISI 316L and AISI 317L are not adequate. The addition of copper to this grade gives it corrosion resistant properties superior to the conventional chrome nickel stainless steels, in particular to sulphuric, phosphoric and acetic acids. However, there is limited use with hydrochloric acids. It also has a high resistance to pitting in chloride solutions and a high resistance to both crevice and stress corrosion cracking. Alloy 904L performs better than other austenitic stainless steels due to the higher alloying of nickel and molybdenum. It is non-magnetic in all conditions and has excellent formability and weldability. The austenitic structure also gives it excellent toughness, even down to cryogenic temperatures and
the high chromium content promotes and maintains a passive film which protects the material in many corrosive environments.
steels in most environments, and is also non-magnetic. With good heat transfer properties, titanium has a melting point higher than steel alloys.
904L has a greater resistance to precipitation of ferrite and sigma phases on cooling and welding than other stainless steels containing molybdenum such as 316L and 317L and there is no risk of intercrystalline corrosion on cooling or welding due to the low carbon content. Its maximum service temperature is at 450째C. This grade is particularly useful in control and instrumentation tubing applications where 316 and 317L are not suitable.
Moreover, titanium is easily worked, a characteristic that when combined with its strength, stiffness, toughness and high melting point make it a highly desirable material for high performance applications such as offshore drilling rig components and subsea equipment.
6 Mo 6 Mo (UNS S31254) is a super austenitic stainless steel with a high level of molybdenum and nitrogen, providing high resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion as well as high strength compared with conventional austenitic stainless steels such as 316L. The alloy can provide excellent resistance to stress corrosion cracking allowing tube cold forming and it can be used without the necessity to re-anneal at testing up to 120째C.
Nickel Alloys One of the great advantages of nickelbased alloys for the oil & gas industry is their excellent corrosion resistance in both aqueous and high temperature applications. In addition to their high melting points and resistance to oxidation and corrosion, nickel alloys
Titanium Because of its strength, unique density and corrosion resistance, titanium has found applications in many industries. The density of titanium is about 60 per cent of that of steel- or nickel-based alloys giving significant weight savings. Its tensile strength is greater than that of austenitic or ferritic stainless steels. It is exceptionally corrosion resistant, exceeding the resistance of stainless
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ADVERTORIAL:
Fine Tubes the customer requirements and can be manufactured in four main forms: Seamless – in which a billet of metal is extruded into a tube and drawn to final size; Welded – made by forming a strip of material into a tube and welding the seam; Welded & Sunk – after being welded the tube is drawn through a die to homogenise the seam weld; Welded & Floating Plug Drawn – after being welded the tube is drawn through a die with a floating plug in the bore to rework the weld seam internally and externally.
are very ductile. They can be easily welded, making them suitable for use in industries where very high and low temperatures come into play. Nickel based alloys have a higher ability to accept alloying elements in solid solution than other stainless steel or iron-based alloys. They can therefore maintain higher metallurgical stability. The combination of high alloying with multiple elements can provide very good corrosion resistance in a wide range of environments while still maintaining good welding and forming characteristics. Nickel alloys are increasingly being used for a wide range of industrial applications, including oil & gas extraction programmes where corrosion-, pressure- and temperatureresistant tubing is required. Alloy 625 Alloy 625 is a nickel-chromium alloy used for its high strength, excellent fabricability and outstanding corrosion resistance. Service temperatures can range from cryogenic to 980°C (1800°F). Its strength is derived from the solid solution strengthening effect of molybdenum and niobium on its nickel-chromium matrix which means precipitation-hardening treatments are not required. This combination of elements also is responsible for its superior resistance to a wide range of corrosive environments of unusual severity as well as to high-temperature effects such as oxidation and carburization.
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Alloy 825 Alloy 825 (UNS N08825) is an austenitic nickel-iron-chromium alloy with additions of molybdenum, copper and titanium. It was developed to provide exceptional corrosion resistance in both oxidizing and reducing environments and is resistant to chloride stresscorrosion cracking and pitting. The addition of titanium stabilizes it against sensitisation in the as-welded condition, making the alloy resistant to intergranular attack after exposure to temperatures in a range that would sensitise unstabilised stainless steels. The fabrication of Alloy 825 is typical of nickel-base alloys, with material being readily formable and weldable by a variety of techniques. Alloy 400 Alloy 400 (UNS N04400) is a solidsolution alloy that can be hardened only by cold working. It has high strength and toughness over a wide temperature range and excellent resistance to many corrosive environments. Manufacturing Advanced materials call for advanced manufacturing processes. All of Fine Tubes’ oil & gas tubing is manufactured to industry-specific quality standards. The company has BS EN ISO 9001 and BS EN ISO 14001 approvals as well as individual client approvals. Fine Tubes also has First Point approval and 97/23/EC P.E.D and can supply to NACE MR0175/ BS EN ISO 15156-3 for our service and to NORSOK M-630 requirements. Coiled tubing is available in a range of different product forms depending on
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Coil lengths can be manufactured up to 1500m (5,000ft) without orbital joints, depending on product dimensions, and up to 13,500m (45,000ft) with orbital joints. Diameters can be from 3mm (0.118”) to 25.4mm (1.00”) with an OD tolerance +/- 0.005” (0.13mm) and wall thickness from 0.5mm (0.020”) to 3mm (0.118”), with a tolerance of +/- 10%. To meet these manufacturing demands, Fine Tubes’ production facilities include: • Cold pilger mills • Cold draw benches • Tube welding mills - In-line weld mills • Controlled atmosphere heat treatment • Pickling & passivation plant • NDT ultrasonic & eddy current testing • Hydrostatic testing • Radiographic examination Quality and Safety Considerations When specifying the type of tubing for a particular environment, several factors should be taken into account. The most important criteria influencing this decision will be pressure capability and risk of corrosion. A seamless tube that has been cold worked and annealed has a completely homogeneous crystalline wrought structure. The strip material
ADVERTORIAL: used to make a welded tube is of the same form but this becomes a cast structure at the weld which could corrode preferentially to the surrounding tube. Through the combination of cold work and subsequent annealing the weld metal can be re-crystallised, transforming this area to a wrought structure resulting in a homogeneous cross-section with equal corrosion potential all around the tube similar to a seamless tube. Sinking goes a long way to achieving this recrystallisation of the cast weld structure into a partially homogenised annealed structure. The extra work in the weld area imparted by a floating plug draw ensures full re-crystallisation. In theory the pressure capability of tubing made by the welded and annealed method should be the same but it is common practice in design codes to down-rate welded tubing due to the risk of an imperfect weld leading to weakness. The strains involved in a following redrawing operation will establish the quality of the seam weld and any centre-line weakness will be exposed and detected by visual inspection and/or pressure testing. Therefore the seamless welded and sunk and welded & sunk/plug drawn tubes have the same pressure rating which is superior to that of welded tubing. Other considerations that can affect the type of tubing specified are surface roughness, compatibility with compression fittings, tolerances, concentricity, length and, of course, price. Welded tubing has a smooth OD & ID finish except for the bead, which can be pronounced in the weld area. This can cause problems with compression fittings. Welded & sunk tubing has a smooth OD surface making it suitable for use with compression fittings but a somewhat rougher bore condition due to sinking and a pronounced weld bead on the ID only. Welded & plug drawn and seamless tubes have a smooth OD surface together with a uniform bore surface with no protruding weld bead. Tubes made by welding from strip are generally more concentric than seamless tubes, where the uniformity of wall thickness is dependent on the concentricity of the first extrusion into hollow form. However, seamless tubes will meet standard commercial tolerances such as those in ASTM A269.
Fine Tubes Generally longer lengths can be made by seam welding from strip than can be obtained by drawing down from seamless hollows. These lengths can be further extended by sinking or plug drawing. Where very long lengths are required individual coils can be butt welded together using autogeneous orbital welding, each weld being radiographically examined to ensure that it is free of defects and the complete line is then subject to a pressure test. Welded and redrawn type tubing will need far fewer joints than a seamless line of the same overall length, which leads to significant cost savings. The working pressure for a tube depends on the operating conditions of each particular application and the factor of safety required. This can be determined only by the customer and is expressed as a proportion of either the yield pressure or the nominal burst pressure of the tubing. These are the values that raise the stress to the theoretical yield point or the ultimate tensile strength for the material. Safe working pressures have traditionally been expressed as a proportion of either the tensile strength or yield point of a tube. Different industries and pressure vessel codes have adopted different practices. The working pressure calculations used for control line tubing are based upon Codes of Practice for Pipelines PD 8010-2 (Subsea pipelines):2004 (with no account being taken of stresses other than those induced by the internal hydrostatic/ hydraulic pressure within the tube). A safety factor of 1.6 is applied to the yield pressure for calculation of the working pressure. However, the safety factor is a function of the design calculation and various other values may be applied.
Conclusion As was said at the outset, the goal for the oil & gas industry is corrosion-resistant tubing that will last for 30+ years; ‘fit and forget’ tubing. And the reason for that is clear – checking for and replacing corroded tubes is time consuming and costly, not just in terms of the replacement operation itself but also in terms of the lost production due to the downtime involved. The drive to exploit oil & gas fields in increasingly hostile, deepwater conditions makes the job of producing ‘fit and forget’ tubing ever more challenging, in line with the ever more challenging operating conditions in which the tubing has to perform. The use of exotic alloys and other metals offers the best technological solution to the problem – provided that, like Fine Tubes, the manufacturers have the full technical capabilities to process these materials to high specifications and can consequently offer a significant longterm cost benefit to end application users and operators.
The Lamé formula has been used for calculation of the theoretical yield (0.2% proof strength) and burst pressures: P = 2St (D–t) / (D2 – 2Dt + 2t2) The formula used for calculation of the theoretical collapse pressure based on minimum 0.2% proof strength is: P = 2St (D–t) / D2 Where: S = 0.2% Proof strength or tensile strength P = pressure D = outside diameter t = wall thickness
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NEWS:
FHP
FHP
F
HP is a dynamic and driven team of Property Agents and Consultants. They use their vast experience and expertise, combined with creative thinking and close partnership working, to realise the full potential from any commercial property. FHP was established in 1990. Their growth and success enabled them to become nationally recognised by the Estates Gazette Survey with FHP breaking into the top 100 national firms of Chartered Surveyors in their fifth year. Their organic growth and achievement has been down to the hard work, talents and ambition of their people, with FHP now looking to break into the top 40. When they began, they spotted a gap in the market: to offer multidisciplinary regional property consultancy that wasn't bogged down by corporate governance. The same holds true today. They have grown organically but still work in partnership with clients and with their colleagues to provide the best possible results. Their market
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knowledge is comprehensive and much envied: they always have their ear to the ground and they often spot opportunities with huge potential before others. This combination of multi-disciplinary, proactive working, enthusiasm for the task in hand and complete professionalism continues to attract high-calibre people to join their team. It also attracts a huge variety of clients; the private individual and small business is still equally important to them as the major institutions, pension companies, banks, property investors, multinational companies and major developers who also regularly benefit from their services. Whilst they have grown to become arguably the largest property consultancy within the region, they strive to keep that personal connection with their clients and retain their maxim of providing knowledgeable, nononsense advice. With offices in Nottingham and Derby they are active in the East Midlands and Nationally in Retail Sales and Retail Lettings; Office Sales and Office Lettings; Industrial Sales and Industrial Lettings as well as providing a full range of property
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professional services to businesses and individuals. At FHP they offer a full range of services: Buying, Selling, Letting, Rating, Rent Reviews, Lease Renewals, EPC Certificates, Insolvency and Property Management. They offer sector-specific experience in Office, Industrial, Retail, Leisure, Investments, Healthcare, Bluelight (Emergency Services) and Residential Land. What sets FHP apart is their dedicated people; a close-knit team of talented, proactive, ambitious individuals, the driving force behind FHP's continued success and ever-rising reputation. They draw on each other's experience and expertise to add value, identify new opportunities and deliver the best possible results. FHP is currently the Agent for 983 opportunities available on our property search.
NEWS:
FHP
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ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW:
Green Route Energy
Good quality, efficiency and flexibility of design
The UK distributor for innovative Energy Efficiency Systems
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ENVIROMENT & ENERGY REVIEW:
Green Route Energy
P
recision is an essential part of Green Route Energy that governs their good quality service, ensures a high ratio balance of necessary skills throughout the company and creates a strong work ethic to provide cost-effective and on-point services to their clients. Furthermore to maintain their efficient streamlined system, the company ships directly from their associated manufactures throughout the UK. They are able to do this due to their trusted partners, dedicated account managers, sales operations staff and logistics managers. Green Route Energy recently embarked on becoming the UK distributor for an innovative and easily installed Solar Thermal System (manufactured in the EU). After receiving an increasing amount of positive feedback on the system, the company is looking to increase their market share as soon as possible. As a successful energy company, Green Route Energy have an extensive and varied customer base and have worked with companies in the transport industry, to housing associations, to universities, pubs and restaurants and the renewable industry. Currently Green Route Energy is by focussing on a reduction in running costs for no capital outlay: by utilising roof spaces (above 250m2) and installing solar PV Panels free of charge to their customers the company is able to do so. The installation can reduce energy bills by 60 % over a twenty year period. Direct sourcing combined with strict selection for the highest quality products enables Green Route Energy to provide good quality, efficiency and flexibility of design to their customers. In addition to this, by solely working with the manufacturerseliminating middle men networks- maintains a low cost rate for the clients. Operating under a customer first basis policy, the company realises that no ‘one size fits all’ solution; that each customer has their own unique requirements. By utilising their close relationship with the manufacturers, Green Route Energy are capable of creating customised solutions from a range of superb quality products which are both functionally efficient and good value for money. As a continuously expanding business they will strive to ensure that they have an appropriate staffing level to maintain the exceptional customer service and technical support levels with which they have become associated. The company is devout in its ambition to reduce its effect on the environment: taking sensible steps such as not having print literature and using pdf, teleconferencing whenever possible and to reduce their road miles. Green Route Energy aim to continue with the same objective, to support their customers with high quality, supply appropriate products and provide exceptional customer service. Tel: 01484 850095 www.greenrouteenergy.co.uk
400w SON versus our 70w LED – No contest!
This is not Dave’s TV on the wall, it is one of our IR Heaters!
We can assist in demonstrating your company’s CSR (corporate social responsibility). Why not discuss with us: • Changing your yard or office lighting to LED and reducing your energy costs by up to 80% • Reducing your heating costs by up to 40% using our infrared heating systems for your workshop or offices • Saving 50% of you air conditioning energy costs with our Attendant Control units • Guarding against flood damage with our Autostopcock • Installing our state of the art retrofit Solar Thermal system • Heating your premises with our Biomass or Air Source Heat Pump systems • Hot water 365 days a year with our Thermodynamics system • FREE Solar PV installation
Call us on 01484 850095 or 07557 943218 www.greenrouteenergy.co.uk
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ENGINEERING:
Harvard Engineering
Indoor controls leap light years ahead
A new generation of wireless indoor lighting controls that is easy to install and user-friendly is making light work of energy saving. Dr Andy Davies of Harvard Engineering outlines this revolutionary new technology.
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ENGINEERING:
L
ighting is the single highest contributor to energy spend in most buildings and is estimated to equate to 41% of all commercial electrical consumption in the UK. Using the most advanced energy efficient LED lighting along with smart control and management systems could save up to 80% across the board, according to the International Energy Agency and yet, surprisingly, figures show that only 25% of all the controllable lighting currently sold in Europe is linked to any kind of control other than an on/off switch. Two main reasons account for this apparent apathy. One is that most current lighting controls lack flexibility and require expensive and disruptive rewiring. The second is that controls are
Harvard Engineering generally complicated and costly to commission.
variations possible every 15 minutes, 365 days a year.
These were the key issues which engineers from Wakefield-based Harvard Engineering aimed to address when briefed to come up with a totally new blueprint for indoor lighting controls. Harvard, world leader in the design, development and manufacture of energy saving lighting products, had already experienced huge success with LeafNut, the company’s innovative webbased outdoor lighting control and monitoring technology, and believed that elements from this design could be adapted for the indoor sector.
There is no limit to the number of gateways or devices that can be linked to the system and this is why, for the first time, it is now possible to operate lights for multiple buildings from one single computer hub to make effective energy and maintenance savings. The benefits for businesses with several sites are immense.
The result is EyeNut, winner of the Controls Innovation of the Year Award following its launch in November 2013 at London’s Lux Awards. Web-based and wire free, EyeNut offers proven savings of up to 40% on top of those gained by a switch to LEDs. It is simple for any professional electrician to install and can be applied either retrospectively to existing lighting or installed in new schemes. Crucially, EyeNut allows users to manage and customise their own lighting scheme using an intuitive user-friendly ‘dashboard’ or Graphic User Interface which can be accessed via a computer, laptop or tablet. All the light points, their status and energy spend are clearly visible on the dashboard screen and can be easily altered to meet energy targets. A mapping feature gives the operator a clear and complete view of all light points set over an imported image of their building layout, making it easy to see energy ‘heat spots’ and specific energy consumption.
Never content to accept the status quo, Harvard has already upgraded the new technology to offer additional capability following a move to a cloud-based EyeNut hub offering improved security, stability, accessibility and flexibility. Version 1.6 now offers an interface with emergency luminaires so that emergency tests can be carrried out when a building is empty or distributed throughout the building to minimise disruption. The results of completed tests automatically appear in the EyeNut interface and can be exported to external systems for audit tracking. Emergency lights can also be enabled for auto-testing using the new EyeNut Emergency Interface Adaptor and third party sensor devices can be used on the wireless network. Other new features include personalised map views to show any particular area of a building. Standing still is not an option. This new generation of lighting controls offers energy-efficiency in a user-friendly package that is light years ahead.
EyeNut uses GPS and radio frequency identification (RFID) to operate lights individually or in groups. Devices are simply commissioned using a RFID scanner. Up to 500 light points can be managed from a single gateway via a robust, secure ZigBee wireless mesh network. This compares favourably with the offer of 64 using DALI controls. The system is completely customisable. Area groups and logical groups are easily created and a profiling tool allows them to be controlled over assigned schedules which can be simple or sophisticated – on, off or dimmed to different levels with
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ENGINEERING:
Ikea
IKEA UK and Ireland wins Company of the Year at BusinessGreen Leaders Awards N
ational Judges praise IKEA for one of the most ambitious green business strategies even enacted by a major corporation. IKEA UK and Ireland was named as Company of the Year at the 2014 BusinessGreen Leaders Awards held on Wednesday 2 June. Amid intense competition, IKEA was selected for its company-wide commitment to sustainability, described by judges as “one of the most ambitious green business strategies ever enacted by a major corporation”.
Speaking after the awards, Joanna Yarrow, Sustainability Manager, IKEA UK and Ireland, said: “I am extremely delighted and honoured that IKEA has been recognised as the winner of this award. It is very humbling that our commitment to sustainability has been recognised. From designing products that help our customers and co-workers live a more sustainable life at home and the way we manufacture and transport goods, through to our commitment to become resource and energy independent and our focus on helping to create a better life for children in many parts of the world with our IKEA Foundation-funded programmes, we are working hard to be a more sustainable business. “At the same time, we know that we still have a lot of work to do to reach our goals set out in our People, Planet Positive strategy and our co-workers play an important role in this. With their commitment and enthusiasm, we can show customers how our products can
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save them money as well as help them live more sustainably.” Commenting on why IKEA was chosen for the awards, the judges said: “This year’s winner has developed one of the world’s most comprehensive green procurement programmes, placed energy and resource efficiency at the heart of its business, normalised the sale of energy efficient lighting, pledged to invest €1.5bn in developing its own renewables capacity, and famously started selling solar panels to retail
consumers. But more importantly, this company has demonstrated that a multinational giant can embrace the kind of drastic change that is necessary to lead the green economy into its next stage of development, just as it has also demonstrated that greener products do not require compromise, they can be desirable and attainable, as well as sustainable.”
sustainability awards in Europe. They celebrate businesses, executives, entrepreneurs, investors and campaigners from across the green economy, highlighting how these pioneers are driving the emergence of innovative and sustainable new business models and technologies.
Now in their fourth year, the BusinessGreen Leaders Awards are considered the biggest green/
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CONSTRUCTION:
Lafarge
LAFarGE
Holcim and Lafarge announce details of proposed asset disposals in Brazil as part of their planned merger
L
afarge and Holcim today announce further details on their proposal for comprehensive divestments in Brazil, as part of their planned merger of equals to create Lafarge Holcim, the most advanced and innovative Group in the building materials industry. As announced on July 7, 2014, and to anticipate potential competition authorities’ requirements, the joint Divestment Committee has agreed to propose to Brazilian competition authority CADE (Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Econômica) a package of high-quality assets from both Holcim and Lafarge, which include 3 integrated cement plants and 2 grinding
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stations (with a total of 3.6 Mt annual cement capacity), as well as one readymix plant all located in the Southeastern region of Brazil*. Brazil is an important market for the future LafargeHolcim Group and the company will remain committed to the country serving customers from a balanced network in cement, aggregates, and ready-mix concrete. These proposed divestments have been presented to CADE in the context of pre-filing negotiations and will now be subject to review and further discussion until a final decision is reached with the authority.
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The divestment process will be carried out in the framework of the relevant social processes and ongoing dialogue with the employee representatives’ bodies and will be conducted in parallel to discussions with the competition authorities and potential buyers. The divestment process will be completed subject to the closing of the merger between Holcim and Lafarge. As announced, the closing of the planned merger is expected in H1 2015, aiming to create the most balanced and diversified portfolio in the industry, operating in 90 countries and creating superior value for its stakeholders.
CONSTRUCTION:
Lafarge
J & S Taylor Site Services LTD
Official Agents, Distributors and Installer for Flexco For more information please feel free to contact us on: Tel: +44 (0)191 3789983 | Mobile: 07971359051 or 07788574485 Email: jstaylorservicesltd@btconnect.com Thistle Road · Littleburn Industrial Estate · Langley Moor · Durham · DH7 8HJ
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COUNCIL FEATURE:
London Borough of Newham
Newham Council tackles poor practices in the lettings industry
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COUNCIL FEATURE:
London Borough of Newham
Newham Council is the first local authority in the country to stand up for private tenants and landlords who are being exploited by rip-off letting agents flouting the law.
A
n initiative by the council to tackle poor practice by lettings agents and protect tenants has helped to improve standards in the profession with the majority of agents now complying with the law. The Fair Lettings Project was introduced to ensure letting agents in Newham were complying with legislation to stop tenants from being exploited. The project also aims raise standards in the industry which will also benefit landlords. Complaints regarding letting agents have increased significantly in recent years, both locally and nationally. The Competition and Markets Authority has highlighted unfair and illegal charging practices affecting both private tenants and landlords. Since November 2013, officers have visited 197 known letting agents in the borough to check their conditions. From these visits, 113 notices for corrective actions have been issued. Most are now either fully or broadly compliant with current consumer protection and housing legislation. The council has also been able to recover thousands of pounds of tenants’ deposit money, illegally retained by letting agents.
• Membership of reputable trade bodies and professional associations. Sir Robin Wales, Mayor of Newham said: “The Fair Lettings Project has been a great success with the majority of letting agents now operating within the law. We have already seen the prosecution of one letting agent who continued to work illegally which is to the detriment of both tenants and landlords. “Forty per cent of all Newham households rent privately and many depend on a largely unregulated industry. It is encouraging that so many of the letting agents are now complying with the law and we will support those who need help and assistance. The project complements our private sector licensing scheme which has already raised standards across the private sector. We will continue to work hard to ensure Newham residents who rent privately are not exploited and get a decent roof over their head.”
Four agents stopped trading after the first visit, two letting agents have been prosecuted and another five will have legal action taken against them. One letting agent, Zulfikar Shakur from Homes 4u Direct, pleaded guilty at Thames Magistrates Court to two offences under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. The offences were not having transparent fees and charges and not displaying the maximum occupancy level which is required as part of the private sector licensing scheme. He was sentenced to a 12 month conditional discharge and ordered to pay a £15 victim surcharge and £500 court costs within 28 days. Also as a result of the project, there are a further 32 letting agents under investigation. Ten penalty charge notices (PCN) of £1,000 have also been issued to letting agents who are also acting as estate agents but do not belong to an approved redress scheme. The council is working with national professional bodies including the National Approved Lettings Scheme (NALS) and the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) to set the standards expected of all agents operating in Newham. All letting agents in Newham are expected to: • Provide full information and clarity on all fees and charges to all parties • Provide tenants with a copy of any property licence and information on the licensing conditions • Ensure all third party deposits are registered in an approved tenancy deposit scheme • Correctly returning all holding deposits without illegal deductions • Always providing accurate information to landlords and tenants
GMI, an IST company, is a leading supplier of portable and fixed gas detection equipment. We have the capability to design and develop customised fixed gas detection systems to comply with individual requirements. If you would like to increase your gas safety, whether it be with new equipment or the servicing of existing equipment, regardless of the manufacturer, call us on +44 (0) 141 812 3211 for a free consultation or alternatively e-mail sales@gmiuk.com
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www.gmiuk.com
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ADVERTORIAL:
MCP Engineering Plastics
MCP Engineering Plastics Celebrates 10 Years
Over recent years MCP have expanded in terms of employees, facilities and premises to accommodate increased demand for engineering plastics in the UK and Ireland. the company from home in April 2004 after 16 years of experience working for various well established engineering plastics companies. MCP initially specialised in the warehousing and distribution of PTFE stock shapes, quickly moving on to sell other engineering plastics due to high customer demand.
M
CP Engineering Plastics, based in Essex, are one of the leading suppliers of high performance semi-finished stock shapes and finished components throughout the UK and Ireland, bringing a wealth of technical experience to a wide customer base. In just ten years, MCP has built a reputation for knowledge, expertise and excellent customer service with a quality system certified to ISO 9001:2008. They offer engineering plastic products and services to a range of industry sectors including oil and gas, food processing and pharmaceuticals. MCP manufacture and supply engineering plastic products in various materials. This includes PTFE, PEEK, Nylon and many other engineering thermo plastics. Their state of the art manufacturing facilities include the latest CNC machining capabilities ensuring the finished products they manufacture are to the exact tolerances and standards required. Processing services are offered by MCP for their semi-finished products to meet their customers’ specific requirements, including precision machined parts and centreless grinding.
2011 saw the inception of a second unit on site, introducing the ability to machine products as well as stocks and shapes. In 2012 a third unit was established to house an extensive range of stock. At present, two thirds of the business is still distribution and selling of PTFE engineering stock shapes. At the core of MCP’s business are their customers. Excellent customer service is an aspect of the company that plays an integral part in the business’ past development and future growth. MCP pride themselves on their On Time in Full delivery target of 95%. They have a structured internal plan in order to meet the ever increasing needs of their customers and offer next working day delivery on all in stock items. These are areas of the business that contribute to MCP’s competitive edge -through the consistency of quality and their relationship with customers, whilst offering a flexible, yet personal
Managing Director, Paul Lee, started
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approach, in return MCP receive their customers’ loyalty. Mr Lee states: “We appreciate how important it is for our customers to have a quick turnaround time, from when they make their order to the delivery of the goods, and we have procedures in place to ensure their specific needs are met wherever possible. We frequently review our sales and delivery process. Our targets are in place to give great customer service and in turn that will contribute to our future growth as a business.” The industry faces significant challenges, but MCP are committed to the long-term investment in machinery, materials, staff and facilities and providing excellent customer service with competitive prices are all contributions to the ongoing and future success of the company. Mr Lee has clear visions for the expansion and development for MCP in the near future: “We are launching our own products for the building industry over the next couple of months as we have been offering our own unbranded product for the last 5 years. We are also in the process of extending our office to accommodate our growing team. We now have 10 employees and have plans to grow MCP and double our turnover in the next three years.”
We have the experience and knowledge to help you and your business
Your one stop source for high quality engineering plastics • • • • • •
Specialists in all fluropolymer engineering plastics Manufacture and supply high performance semi-finished stock shapes and finished components Established more than 10 years ago ISO 90001 -2008 Standard certified Quick response time and competitive prices Next working day delivery on in stock items
We are confident we can offer competitive prices in all materials we may encounter. For our best prices call our sales team on 01279 739 399.
MCP Engineering Plastics Limited Unit 27 Kingstons Commercial Centre Down Hall Road Matching Green Essex CM17 0RB
Tel: 01279 739 399 Email: sales@mcpengineering.co.uk www.mcpengineering.co.uk
CONSTRUCTION:
N Stones Builders
They have over 20 years of experience in carrying out disabled adaptation works
N
Stones Builders Ltd has been established for over 20 years. The company began carrying out domestic construction projects such a loft conversions and extensions, before moving onto a range of commercial works for establishments including schools and churches. They formed a partnership with the local authority and undertook disabled adaptation works including the building of wet rooms and construction of ramps. Since then they have established themselves as one of the leading companies undertaking major refurbishment works to properties to suit the needs of disabled individuals.
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They work closely with a range of architects to carry out extensive works to properties which can include extensions, alterations of rooms and areas to create open plan living space, provision of hydrotherapy pools, installation of specialist equipment such as lifts, hoists, hydraulic baths, and much more. They also carry out demolition of existing dwellings and replace them with new build homes. With approximately 30 employees N Stone also use numerous subcontractors and specialist suppliers. They have a strong management structure in place, supported by administrative staff. Their employees who work on site range from site managers to qualified tradesmen
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and labourers. They also employ a Health & Safety Coordinator to ensure that they are always working in compliance with up to date legislation. At the 2014 LABC Awards they were a finalist for a new build property that they constructed in Armthorpe, Doncaster. They demolished an existing bungalow on site and created a brand new dormer bungalow suitable for their client (who suffers from cerebral palsy), and his family. The project included a hydrotherapy pool, soft play area with sensory equipment and spacious open plan living areas for the family to enjoy together. They recently also began construction of
CONSTRUCTION:
N Stones Builders
their new business premises in March of this year and they are hoping to move in during November. In this short time they have developed extensive warehouse facilities, stores and a vehicle compound. They have also constructed brand new offices including conference facilities and a canteen. The majority of N Stones Builders’ clients have disabilities which can range in severity. They have clients of all ages, from young children to older adults, and they can be located anywhere from the North down to the Midlands. The architects they work alongside design adaptations to properties based on each client’s individual needs. For example, they may build a family home for a child with cerebral palsy, which could include a hydrotherapy pool and sensory rooms with specialist lighting and play equipment. Another job may entail creating a home adapted for an injured soldier that could have height adjustable kitchen worktops and level access ramps, to enable them to continue living independently. Every one of their clients is unique in their capabilities and requirements, so the work they carry out is always centred on each individual person. They have over 20 years of experience in carrying out disabled adaptation works, and through much of this time they have worked in partnership with the same architectural companies. They have grown and developed together and their pooled experience enables them to create fantastic tailor made homes that suit the needs of their clients and their families. N Stones Builders strive to be consistent in all that they do. Because they have a wealth of experience in their field of work, they understand the construction process and know what they need to do to meet with and exceed their customers’ needs. One of the key aspects to their success, is that they treat every customer with the utmost respect, and they ensure that the homes they move into are perfect for them in every way. Their Director, Neil Stones, always insists that the work they carry out must be up to the same standard as they would expect to find in their own homes. They always employ a professional photographer to visit the properties they work on once the project is complete, so that they can use the photographs on their website and in their promotional brochure. Currently they have 10 major contracts ongoing with several of them at the same stage of construction. This is an incredibly busy period for them but they have adequate management in place to ensure that all of the contracts run smoothly and are completed to the highest standard within set timescales. Whilst this puts a lot of pressure on everyone, they recognise the positive aspects of being so busy, and they pull together as a team to rise to the challenge. In the future N Stones Builders aim to keep doing what they are best at, and to maintain the great relationships they have with their architectural colleagues, and clients alike. In the short term they are aiming to move into their new business premises and recruit additional staff to assist with their current workload, and to help them expand further when the opportunity presents itself. Tel: 01709 895335 www.nstonesbuilders.co.uk
IT & Network Support 01484 818242 www.cssdigital.co.uk • • • • • • • • • •
Low Cost Support Contracts Helpful Friendly Staff Network Installation and Maintenance Network Security and Antivirus Solutions Multisite Connectivity Mobile Email and Hosted Exchange Websites, Cloud Services and Internet Connections PC Repairs and Performance Issues Resolved Voice Over IP Phone Systems CCTV Installation Service
CSS Digital have provided N Stones Builders with all their IT Support requirements for over 10 years and would like to wish them every success for the future.
We provide a service throughout the UK to a wide variety of clients including the construction and building industry, architects, utility companies, local authorities, shop fitters and the health & leisure industry. Proud to be associated with N Stone Builders. Tel: 01226 779544 | www.premierengineeringltd.com
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ENGINEERING:
Quadratec
Dedicated engineering High quality products and services
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ince Quadratec’s establishment in 1995, as an advanced technology engineering design consultancy with a background in aerospace technology, the company has grown considerably, offering a wide variety of engineering design, development and manufacturing capabilities. With a 3,000 square ft. factory, Quadratec occupies modern, state of the art facilities such as design, technology and administration offices, electronics and software areas, conference room with tele-conference facility and fully equipped assembly & test areas. Their extensive range of capabilities and facilities enables Quadratec to provide a variety of services, including advanced product design & development, design & manufacturing of traversing systems, bespoke production/test equipment, aerodynamic test equipment and high speed rotational test equipment. Quadratec are also UK distributors for a number of specialist pressure sensing products. The company is currently active on a number of renewable energy and hybrid vehicle design and development projects, along with a number of high speed spin rigs and wind tunnel related projects. The company has always strongly believed in investing in key CAE software analysis tools and personnel and continues to do so. Collectively these important investments have benefited the company by expanding their range of capabilities, strengthening their place in the market and maintaining & improving the quality of their services. The company has a large client base, working with industries such as aerospace, automotive, Formula 1, science research, rail transport and power generation. Further to these, Quadratec’s customers also include petro-chemical, pharmaceutical, medical/medical device and white good
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ENGINEERING: companies. Their clients range from small, high technology start-ups to large blue-chip organisations. There are a few challenges that Quadratec have to face, employing the right calibre staff who have the required knowledge & experience and maintaining enquiry levels to achieve sustainable growth. These are managed by their nineteen years of experience and utilising their vast knowledge, they are able to provide their clients with a quick response that delivers their needs and expectations. With the intention of growth, future ambitions of the company are to further
Quadratec extend their range of products and services and focus the business into key sectors to maintain and improve on their current level of success. To achieve their goals, Quadratec employs high quality personnel whom are an integral part of the company and a key part of the company’s future. In addition to this they adopt a friendly work environment that encourages team building and communication to ensure that they will deliver the customer’s requirements. Tel: 01291 424390 www.quadratec-ltd.co.uk
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ENGINEERING:
Robertson Timber Engineering
The Macallan has today been granted planning permission by Moray Council for a new ÂŁ100m iconic distillery and visitor centre
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orks will now progress on the delivery of the new facility, which is scheduled to open to the public in Spring 2017. The Macallan - one of the core brands of Edrington, Scotland's premier producer and distributor of global spirits brands - has appointed Robertson as preferred contractor for the new facility, and Forsyths of Rothes as supplier of the distillation equipment. Graham Hutcheon, Group Operations Director of Edrington, said: "We are
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delighted with the decision taken today by the Moray Council planning committee. This permission enables us to forge ahead with our work on site. Following a competitive tender process, we have selected Robertson as our preferred contractor to deliver our new distillery and visitor centre. We have assembled a first-class team, including internationally renowned architects Rogers, Stirk, Harbour and Partners, and are confident that Robertson will complement the existing team and our aspirations for this project.
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"Only the external appearance of the distiller y will change: the exceptional quality of The Macallan, which has been produced for many years using copper stills from Forsyths, will not be compromised, and the same focus on attention to detail and personal care of the whisky's production will be upheld. The new distiller y will undoubtedly become one of the most talkedabout distilleries not only in Speyside but globally, and we look for ward to star ting on site soon."
ENGINEERING:
Robertson Timber Engineering In addition to creating a site of major architectural significance, the new distillery will ensure the ongoing quality control of the production of The Macallan, both of which further consolidate The Macallan's position as one of the world's leading luxury spirits. Over time, the distillery will deliver additional capacity to meet the growing demand from existing and new international markets. With its rolling roofscape, the distillery has been designed to complement the natural beauty of the area and The Macallan Estate, which overlooks the River Spey. Bill Robertson, Executive Chairman of Robertson, said: "We are delighted and honoured to have been selected by The Macallan to build their new world-class, iconic distillery and visitor centre. "As a local business we have worked in the whisky industry for many, many years and fully understand the aspirations of the sector. Perhaps more importantly, we have taken the time to understand The Macallan, the business, its objectives and its reputation for high quality in all it does.
The project will be delivered in true partnership between ourselves and The Macallan, and will result in a distillery and visitor centre that will become the benchmark for others to aspire to." Graham Hutcheon, Edrington, concluded; "With Robertson and Forsyths joining our professional team, we are delighted that regionally based businesses will benefit from our investment. It is anticipated that due to the locations of both these companies, even greater economic and employment benefits for the local and surrounding areas will be realised." The Macallan is recognised around the world as a marque of excellence and craftsmanship. The new facility will embody The Macallan's uncompromising approach to quality and luxury. Work on site is due to commence in October this year.
One of the UK’s leading specialist distributors, for all nailing tools and collated fasteners
Nailfast have over 30years experience as specialists in the distribution and maintenance of pneumatic, battery and gas fuel cell powered fastening systems. • • • • • • • • •
Nail Fuel Packs / Tubs Brad Fuel Packs Air Compressors Glazing Bradders Hardwood Flooring Nailers and Staplers Headless Pinners Joist Hanger Nailers Packaging Screwdrivers - Collated Autofeed
• • • • • • • • •
Screws - Loose & Collated Silicone Restraint Straps Brick to Timber Wall Ties Truss Clips PVA Glue Bolts Spare Parts Specialist Tools
• • • • • • • • •
Staplers Tapes Tool Accessories Ventilation and Membranes Coil Nailers Fasteners Finish Nailers Framing Nailers Spiked Connector Plates
Tel: 01382 622 993 | E: sales@nailfast.co.uk | www.nailfastonline.co.uk
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COMPOSITES:
Silicone Composites
High quality diversity Dedicated staff members who are equipped with experience to deal with any issue in the composites industry
introduced the silicone vacuum bag which will assist in reducing waste in the composite industry. Their hands-on approach and dedicated staff members who are equipped with experience to deal with any issue in the composites industry. This has helped to diversify the company in terms of customers, as well as the addition of new environmentally friendly products. Silicone Composites Ltd has access to a large network of skilled composite suppliers and engineers; this increases their productivity level and provides their customers with a high level service, strengthening the distinction between them and their competition.
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wo decades of experience within the ‘close mould’ industry equipped Silicone Composites Ltd with specialist knowledge of LTRM, RTM and ‘open moulding’ techniques. The company aim to create a more efficient and less laborious close mould process, which could keep consumable waste time to a minimum. Silicone Composites are confident that their solutions out-perform all competition in the market. Silicone Composites Ltd was established and is currently based in the UK and has a distribution network that expands worldwide. The companies SC2 1:1 and SC3 10:1 Silicone Spray machines are all manufactured in the UK. Featuring ergonomic designs and high quality components, they are the bestengineered and most user-friendly machines currently available. The equipment is supported by a limited lifetime warranty and is fully CE marked.
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In addition to silicone spray equipment, they also have a unique range of mould building ancillaries, including resin runners, seal fillets and various other products which enable them to efficiently build high quality moulds. Their ancillaries are also design to be compatible with the Ciject Composites Integration range of resin injection equipment. Furthermore Silicone Composites Ltd offers a service that produces reusable silicone vacuum bags for their customers, either in-house or onsite. The company’s team provides full technical assistance in all aspects of the production process with a hand on approach to training. Silicone Composites Ltd has a diverse clientele, which ranges from automobile to marine and aerospace to renewable energy. Recently, the company have become more aware of their impact on the environment. To combat this they have
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When regarding competition a customer of Silicone Composites Ltd has stated ‘I feel that a higher quality, more consistent spray bladder is achievable, with a bit of thought into the manufacturing method’. Health & Safety is a priority at Silicone Composites Ltd. It is the responsibility of their staff to relay all policies and procedures to their customers. Tel: 01208814734 www.siliconecomposites.com
COMPOSITES:
Silicone Composites
Hereford Glass Fibre is a UK specialist in working with composite materials and with a history spanning over 25 years, has a broad range of products, services and experience. Over the years we’ve developed a range of products that we can offer. If it’s anything to do with composites, resin transfer moulding processes, vacuum assist resin injection, vacupress, thermoplastics composites or silicon, both casting and sprayed re-useable bags we can more than likely provide a solution.
Tel: 01432 357111 www.hgfcomposites.co.uk www.engineeringmonthly.co.uk
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COLLEGE REVIEW:
South and City College Birmingham
STAFF MEMBER ZAF NOMINATED FOR UK DIVERSITY AWARD
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outh and City College Birmingham staff member has been nominated for the UK's largest diversity awards. Mohammed Zafran, who is well known as Zaf, has been nominated for the Positive Role Model of the Year 2014 award at The National Diversity Awards. Zaf, who is a community liaison officer at the college is also the director
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of a company called All 4 Youth & Community which gives young people in Birmingham the opportunity to get back in education via sporting programmes. His inspiration to set up the company was the tragic death of his brother in law and the death of his blind sister. His organisation helps young people
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who have little drive or future and who spend their time on the street, in gangs, alleyways and parks. He ensures they are given a new source to get their life back on track and that by giving them support and kindness they are able to prosper. Over 21,000 nominations were received for the awards, paying tribute to the inspirational individuals and groups
COLLEGE REVIEW:
South and City College Birmingham
nationwide who have dedicated their time and lives to enhancing the equality agenda. The awards will take place on 26 September in London. All 4 Youth & Community is a charity organisation that now has over 7500 youths registered on their books, and has completed 97 projects. Zaf said: "I am honoured to be nominated but surprised as to being shortlisted from over 21,000 people! It goes to show the confidence, trust and faith people have in me. "What started off as a helping hand to turn a few lives around has gone on to help thousands of people and that pleases me; that is my biggest award.
taking. There is still a lot of work to be done but thankfully more people are coming forward to help with this cause and together we can all make a difference, I am certain of that. "We have managed to achieve what we have with no external funding. The only help me and my team are getting for our projects at the moment are from Mike Hopkins, who is Principal of South and City College. Zaf has also won the Birmingham Sports Community Award 2013 and the BBC West Midlands Sports Community Project of the Year 2013. He has appeared on BBC West Midlands News, Unity FM, Radio WM Breakfast Show, BBC Midlands Masala and Heart FM to talk about his community projects. He has also been nominated for the Pride Of Birmingham Awards 2014 also on the 26 September. Zaf added: "I would like to thank all my friends, family and organisations who took time out to vote for me and especially my work colleagues at South and City College Birmingham, who have always been there to support me."
PROVIDING A COMPREHENSIVE
RANGE OF PEST CONTROL AND HYGIENE SERVICES ACROSS THE MIDLANDS
TRACKING ANY PEST PROBLEMS QUICKLY AND EFFICIENTLY FOR BOTH DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL CLIENTS OFFERING HIGH QUALITY HYGIENE SERVICES INCLUDING HAZARD REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL
"My biggest satisfaction comes when I see the youths I have been working with progress in life. My long term aim is to keep on helping the youths get back into education and help other community groups grow who need assistance. "I feel I have set something up which will live on way after me as we needed more young people to help others in the community because nobody has the time. "I felt frustrated looking at the youths and what route they were
A DEDICATED TEAM OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL TECHNICIANS ON HAND 24/7, 365 DAYS A YEAR Tel: 0121 693 6616 | Fax: 0121 693 6617 Email: enquires@enviropest.co.uk For a full list of services and to visit our online brochure , visit:
www.enviropest.co.uk
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COLLEGE REVIEW:
South Tyneside College
Students scoop marketing prize for smart phone app
Students from South Tyneside College with a head for business and an entrepreneurial flair have reached the final of a prestigious regional competition.
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wo teams of three learners are among just six teams left competing for a £200 prize and trophy in Newcastle Business School’s (NBS) 2014 Marketing Challenge.
The students also had to explain other factors which make NBS an attractive place to study in a competition where teams can have a maximum of four members.
They had just 24 hours to design an Apple i-Phone app that would highlight the benefits of studying for a business qualification at NBS, part of Northumbria University.
Their apps’ features include an interactive map of Newcastle, reviews of the business school, highlights of living in the city, job availability, and student accommodation.
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The first team is made up of second year Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Business students Charlotte Knott, Natasha Dodds, both 18, and Rebecca Porthouse, 19, and the second by course first year students Samah Uddin, Ashton Smith, both 17, and Rachael Hara, 16. The next stage in their challenge is to give 10-minute presentations of their apps and how they have linked theory
COLLEGE REVIEW:
South Tyneside College
to practice as well as what they have learned from the exercise to a panel of NBS judges on Wednesday, May 7. Business lecturer Sandra Gillott said she was confident a college team could win, beating the second place attained in the annual competition last year. She added: “About 50 colleges and schools were invited to submit applications, so we have done very well to have two teams in the final. “It is testament to the very high standard of South Tyneside College’s business courses and to the ability of these students to think quickly and to apply that in a practical and instructional way.
Providing the highest quality in commercial and domestic roofing since 1978.
“The competition is highly thought of and very competitive – it would be great if one of the teams could win the trophy this year.”
We offer to all our clients, a comprehensive free survey, report and recommendations. We can provide specifications at their request. From the emergency call out and repair to the full roof refurbishment, no request is too small!
The college has a range of business courses for school-leavers and those seeking higher education.
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Tel: 0191 276 3666 • Fax: 0191 276 0513 E-Mail: info@jtduffy.co.uk • www.jtduffy.co.uk
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Want to see your business take off?
To advertise with us call today 01422 249 162
ENGINEERING:
Sowga
Commited to their clients
Building better partnerships, delivering what their customers want and adding value
F
ounded in 1977, Sowga’s name comes from all the different processes it was set up to serve, namely steam, oil, water, gas and compressed air. The firm has been involved in all aspects of mechanical services since that day in 1977. From the prefabrication of pipework and packaged units to the installation of complete boiler houses, compressor houses and pumping stations. It has diversified over the past 37 years and, with the addition of emerging practices, is now a fully-integrated building services engineering company specialising in building services maintenance, building management systems, controls, energy management, M&E and HVAC systems, access control and fire systems. The firm directly employs over 40 staff including a multi-skilled engineering team, consisting of mobile service engineers, electrical, mechanical, HVAC, fire, access control, BMS engineers and a head office team. From their head offices they operate a service help desk that is available 24hrs per day, 365 days per year. They always have qualified staff on standby, ready to assist their clients. From general queries to emergency situations, all their clients need to do is call their help desk and their trained personnel will establish the nature of the problem, log the call into their field management software system and despatch appropriate engineers to resolve it within an agreed contracted timescale. Spearheading the company is managing director David Howard and an appointed management hierarchy that includes business development, service, contract, operations, and quality managers. Together the management team bring a combined experience of over 80 years in their industry.
the development of business with both existing and new clients alike. The increased demand for their services has resulted in the recent opening of their Bristol office which will allow them to serve clients in the South West of the country and Wales. Sowga’s main markets lie within the commercial property, luxury residential property, leisure, health care and education sectors. In the commercial property sector, they work on long-term contracts for premier clients such as Standard Life Investments, Jones Lang La Salle, MJ Mapp, Hilson Moran, Helix Property, Savills, GBR Phoenix Beard, SJ Higgins and JD Wetherspoon. Compared to their competition they believe their customer service is better, their engineers are more qualified and their services are more affordable, but that’s exactly what their competitors will tell you about their businesses. In today’s highly competitive market it’s not enough just to say ‘our customer service is great’, or ‘we are more cost effective’ as this the minimum that clients expect. Sowga’s approach is completely different. They understand the only way that they can truly add value to a client’s business is to have a clear understanding of the clients business. One method they
During the past 18 months they have experienced significant growth through
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use to achieve this is to enrol each of their service, contract and operational managers on a facilities management training program accredited by the FMA which gives them a broad understanding of facilities management as a business. By combining this knowledge with their technical skills and a team of highly qualified and competent engineers and they have a truly unique approach to maintaining the built environment. Their company ethos is to ‘exceed expectations’ and they have a track record that proves it. They are committed to looking after their clients properly and building better partnerships, delivering what their customers want plus some added value. The biggest challenge they have faced recently is the implementation of their new field management software system Oneserve and managing the change within the company that is needed to ensure that this is a success. They are streamlining and automating their processes and integrating them seamlessly into their software to improve the efficiency of their business. With their workflow management software they can create streamlined workflows that their workforce access on their mobile devices and check off maintenance tasks quickly and logically.
ENGINEERING:
Sowga
Jobs are configured to cover all elements of the mobile workforce: skill level, resource availability, drive time, materials and location. And the appointments are directly scheduled to each field worker’s mobile device. So they can deliver more jobs, more effectively in the quickest possible time. Holidays and sickness are diarised so that repeat visits are minimised and absences don’t derail a job. Clients are automatically notified of any changes via email, text or letter. Readiness is the key to Sowga’s business. They have managed to diversify and add new services to their offering because they have always been careful not to run before they can walk. They have only taken steps into new fields and offered new services when they have been confident that they have enough high quality resources and infrastructure to effectively support the new venture, without affecting the high level of service that they pride themselves on offering. Another method that have used to verify their readiness is through professional accreditation. An example of this was when they wanted to add Fire Alarms to list of services they needed to be sure that they could achieve a recognisable professional accreditation before they fully offered these services to their clients. By doing so they were auditing their ability to successfully enter into this field. They opted to apply for membership and accreditation to the British Fire Consortium and after being audited by the chairman and approved by a council made up of industry experts and peers, they were confident that they were ready for this step. They are thoroughly committed to maintaining an extensive environmental policy and have taken the important step of achieving accreditation to ISO14001for environmental management systems. Their environmental policy sets out their commitment to consistently improve the environmental performance of their company and targets some core objectives that help them to maintain this. From promoting awareness and understanding of environmental issues amongst their employees, subcontractors and suppliers, to taking all practical steps to identify and eliminate any contamination to the environment. Where practical they promote the design and installation of more
sustainable services within buildings and use of more sustainable materials and equipment. They are holders of an environment agency upper tier waste carriers license and continually track waste disposal to ensure compliance with current legislation. They are also fully committed to health and safety, and have employed the services of compliance firm, Citation PLC to implement their management system and policy. They also provide them with support and updates of legislation. They have achieved the Safe Contractor accreditation, Contractor Plus and have enrolled their employees in the ROSPA accredited Human Focus health and safety training Programme. Compliance excellence continues down through suppliers and subcontractors that they use. All have to complete a supplier questionnaire so they can verify their company details, insurances, accreditations, health and safety, policies and ISO standards. The minimum qualifications/accreditations required in employing them are Safe Contractor (preferred), Construction Line, CHAS. They are proud to not have had any reportable accidents under RIDDOR. Sowga are actively recruiting for various positions from multi-skilled service engineers to air conditioning engineers and fire alarm engineers. They are also committed to apprenticeship training and have added another two apprentices this September. As well as external recruitment they always aim to recruit within where opportunities for promotion arise. They are very passionate about their workforce and recognise this
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as their greatest asset. They are very proud to boast an extremely high staff retention rate and put this down to the investment in personnel development and career building opportunities they offer to their existing staff. For the future their main aim will always be to look after their current clientele before they think about what other goals they have. Maintaining their existing client relationships is the most important element of their business and provides the foundation for further development and growth. The goal of the company is to maintain a high level of service from the top to the bottom - from senior management, through office teams, to engineers in the field. The company ethos is to “exceed expectations.” Their standards of excellence are underpinned by the fact that they strive for quality in all that they do, from the services that they deliver to the people we employ, right down to the way they address discrepancies or concerns. They are focussed on building a company that can offer a truly integrated service, in-house, that limits the need for sub-contractors to only the absolute specialist of services. Through the consistent CPD, training of their staff and recruitment of skilled engineers they anticipate reaching this goal within the next 12 months. Tel: 0844 770 3190 www.sowga.co.uk
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MANUFACTURER:
Texane
High Quality British Standards
Texane is the epitome of a successful British SME manufacturer
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olyurethane components specialist Texane, once a struggling subcontractor, has reinvented itself as a worldwide leader in the field. Its heavy duty polyurethane wheels are exported worldwide where they carry the escalators and travelators in some of the most iconic mass transit systems on the planet, from the New York subway to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Other Texane Tough products are to be found in applications as diverse as motor sport and the oil industry. Formed by two chemists in 1966, the Leicestershire-based engineering company originally operated as a sub-contract manufacturer for other companies, but in the 1990s with low margins and competition from low cost foreign imports, it began to suffer. With the company in administration, current Managing Director Arnab Dutt stepped in, reforming the business by rebranding and developing a niche
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MANUFACTURER: market as a specialist in heavy-duty polyurethane components for a range of mechanical operations in sectors including automotive, railway, oil and gas pipeline, aviation, agricultural machinery and mining. With a new focus on marketing heavy-duty products direct to end users such as Transport for London, Arnab created a precise investment and improvement plan to secure the future for Texane. Reflecting on his early days with Texane, Arnab said: “It was a really bad time to take over a manufacturing company. There was no support or belief in British manufacturing, the move to outsourcing from China was in full swing and the pound was at its highest.” Today, Texane is the epitome of a successful British SME manufacturer and exporter with a worldwide reputation for producing ultra-tough heavy-duty polyurethane components. It currently employs 11 members of staff and is expected to continue expanding. Investments in modern technology has enabled Texane to run its factory efficiently with a relatively small number of employees. With a national shortage in trade skills, the company plans to invest in future workers by recruiting more apprentices in the next three years. Arnab believes a lack of government investment in development of workers and independent companies is detrimental to the UK economy. He passionately believes that the government should do more to create a sustainable, open and viable economy so that small businesses can compete more effectively with big corporations and overseas competitors on a level playing field.
Texane covered bearings, nylon components (polyamide) and polyurethane processing. Texane specialises in multiple fields, such as polyurethane to metal bonding, providing original and replacement parts and the production of low-cost prototypes. The company has a global reputation as tyre and wheel specialists, providing both presson solid tyres for mechanical handling and direct bonded products. A variety of Texane Tough components are used for agricultural, mining, construction, the aggregates industry and noise reducing applications. Armed with a wide range of high quality products, Texane has built a diverse client list, collaborating alongside renowned racing car companies among other high profile customers. Texane is wellestablished internationally, throughout Europe and with export sales stretching to Japan and China. Over the next 18 months, Arnab is focussing Texane on research and development, growing the business with the economy and implementing strategies that will negate the effects from any future economic downturns. It will continue to release new products as a natural progression in the Texane Tough ethos to add value through more effective and reliable components.
ideology that he is close to realising, with a prestigious and loyal client list in the UK and beyond. Future investments in staff, technology and the release of good quality products over the next few years will cement Texane’s position in the engineering industry as a reliable and dedicated brand to watch.
Arnab is striving for Texane to represent the highest standard of British design and manufacturing quality, in terms of products, services and longevity. It’s an
Texane produces high quality products under the brand name Texane Tough that are used to operate vital public transport systems 24-7. The company’s expertise in polyurethane elastomer technology has been a dominant factor in its success, enabling the development of products with exceptional resistance to wear and outstanding load bearing capacity. Texane provides an extensive range of services, including the design and manufacturing of a variety of materials ranging from steel to iron and aluminium to polyurethane components. Additionally, it is able to supply chain and
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ENGINEERING:
Vulcan Refractories
Living long and prospering 74
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ENGINEERING:
Vulcan Refractories
Blythe Patterns Ltd produces a wide range of products and services including: • • • • • • •
Foundry pattern making Refractory mould making Model making Bespoke staircase manufacturing Continuous handrail manufacturing CNC machining facilities Wood turners
Blythe Patterns Ltd has been associated with Vulcan Refractories for many years and we have a close working relationship with them. We wish them every success in the future. BLYTHE PATTERNS LTD CRESSWELL FARM · CRESSWELL STOKE – ON – TRENT · ST11 9RF Tel: 01782 388577 | Fax: 01782 393780 Email: blythe.patterns@gmail.com
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t Vulcan they do not turn away from the difficult applications, they solve them. Formed in 1969, Vulcan refractories have been honing their expertise by solving some of the most challenging refractory issues that industries can find for over 40 years. Their ISO 9001 accredited production unit located in the Midlands, in the UK, allows them to have full control of their engineering, materials, production, quality and logistics. They source only first class grades of raw material, all of which are subject to stringent controls,
in order to ensure the end product is top quality and has full traceability. Vulcan know how refractories work, why they work, what makes them work, who needs them and why they are so important to their clients. At Vulcan Refractories, they strive to perfect the science and work closely with their thousands of satisfied customers, in more than 40 countries around the World, to solve some of the most critical applications. As well as refractories they also produce ceramic infra-red and quartz heaters, for
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which they apply the same philosophy. They have the capability to manufacture both standard industrial shapes as well as custom design units to meet specific needs. Vulcan Refractories currently houses over 2,500 custom shapes to service its many clients. For both product ranges, Vulcan enjoys a reputation for its flexible approach, fast turn round of enquiries, short production lead times, and innovative supply solutions, without sacrificing the quality or either product or service. At Vulcan they do not turn away from the difficult applications, they solve them.
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Do you still use rigid insulation boards between rafters? Have you ever encountered problems insulating suspended timber ground floor? Are you worried about internal insulation causing condensation? Call insulation experts on
08450 181091 for free consultation and advice
www.londoninsulation.co.uk
Do your insurance premiums need knocking down? At Square Mile Broking we have a fresh approach to your insurances, however we also have twenty years experience in looking after NFDC members. Therefore, you’ll enjoy the significant cost benefits our innovative approach brings whilst having the peace of mind that we also have genuine expertise in your industry. As Chartered Insurance Brokers, who specialise in your industry, our tailor-made policies can keep your premiums low while ensuring that you’re fully covered in every area you need to be and none that you’re not. We have the practical experience and expertise to do just that. We understand Demolition cover. We know you demand: • NFDC Discounts • Fees For Intervention (FFI) Cover • Financially secure ‘A’ rated UK based insurers • Best value premiums including options with extremely low deposit premiums • Extended period policies • Full cover including asbestos
CALL OUR DEMOLITION INDUSTRY EXPERTS NOW ON 0844 561 6075 OR EMAIL demolition@squaremilebroking.com
We’re precise about what we do . . .
CNC Turning
CNC Honing
Deep Hole Boring
Deep Hole Drilling
Hone-All Precision Limited Cherrycourt Way, Leighton Buzzard Bedfordshire LU7 4UH
CNC Gundrilling
. . . from start to perfect finish 0845 5555 111
www.hone-all.co.uk