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A new initiative to help commercial property owners ensure their buildings comply with the phase out of R22 and HCFC as part of the Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) Directive has been launched by Weatherite Building Services Limited.

Whilst the ODS Directive, which aims to completely eliminate harmful CFC’s, came into force nearly ten years ago, it reaches a crucially important milestone at the end of 2009, when virgin R22 refrigerant will cease to become available.

Traditionally, R22 has been one of the UK’s most popular refrigerants for air conditioning systems and chillers but from January 2010, only recycled or reclaimed material (which will inevitably be more expensive) will be available. It is widely believed that although the implications of the directive have been known for many years, UK industry has so far taken little action, with an estimated figure of over 50% of all cooling installations still dependent on HCFC’s such as R22, to enable them to continue operating.

Mike Turton, Sales Director of Weatherite Building Services commented, “There seems to have been a lot of talk in the industry about the withdrawal of HCFC’s, but not a lot of action from end users, and that is the reason we’ve decided to actively promote our range of services. Where we differ from other companies is in our ability to objectively view the whole system and provide clients with a report that outlines the most cost effective way to ensure compliance”.

Weatherite offers property owners, Commercial Building Managers and end users an initial site assessment and a report completely free of charge. The assessment is carried out by experienced engineers and the results of the system analysis will be supported by Weatherite's recommendations for the most economical solution to ensure compliance for each client.

Mike Turton added, “For many customers, the age and condition of their existing equipment makes the replacement of R22 with non-ozone depleting alternatives a viable proposition. However, we are finding that some equipment is not economical for simple refrigerant replacement and in situations such as this we are able to propose direct replacement equipment or systems that will be significantly more efficient to operate, reducing client’s energy costs substantially. And in many government grants and tax allowances are also available to partially fund new equipment purchased.”

Whilst virgin R22 will cease to be available from January 2010, recycled product may be used until 31/12/2014. However, early signs of demand outstripping supply has seen prices for virgin R22 increase by around 40% during 2008, with further increases anticipated throughout 2009 for the remaining available stocks.

“In the not too distant future, everyone is going to have to replace HCFC’s in their system,” said Mike Turton,” at Weatherite, we believe that if clients are pro-active now, we can provide them with the optimum cooling solution that will save them money both now and for many years to come.”

WBS has over 37 years experience in all aspects of building service including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, commercial kitchen ventilation/extraction, data centre/IT cooling, boiler house refurbishment/replacement and all aspects of M & E services. WBS offers its customers a complete building services solution-from one single source including total project management and full design, installation and commissioning activities.

WBS is part of the £40m Weatherite Group, one of the UK’s leading HVAC and Building Services organisations.

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Brac Roofing’s three party deal with Solar Cube Ltd and IPS (UK) Ltd will enable it to provide unique, supply and installation solutions using 'Rubberfuse' TPO single ply membrane with integrated, energy producing photovoltaic panels.

Managing Director Adam Clark said “Commercial buildings have enormous potential value in terms of their ability to contribute towards environmental sustainability. Until now large expanses of roofs are rarely exploited as sites for Solar energy generation, but interest is rapidly gaining momentum. The Brac, Solar Cube and IPS package offers specifiers a turnkey solution to roofing and renewable energy requirements through a single supplier who handles supply, install and commissioning”.

Whether a new or replacement membrane is required, a Rubberfuse solution can be installed which incorporates photovoltaic panels from day one or at a later date. Once installed, systems are fully supported by insurance backed warranty.

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Fakro GB is using Ecobuild to show its Balcony Roof Window in the U.K. for the first time. It has two sashes, the top-hung upper sash opening through 45 degrees, while the lower sash slides out to reveal built-in balustrades. The large glazing area ensures that natural daylight is maximised, while the automatic V40P air inlet window provides the added benefit of balanced ventilation. As the only roof window manufacturer to use the patented topSafe® system, Fakro can provide the highest standard of security and safety currently available in standard products, a minimum Class 3 – EN13049.

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Tyco Electronics has released new TVSS (Transient Voltage Surge Suppression) kits for Dorman Smith MCCB panel boards. The new enclosure and mounting kits offer more flexibility and functionality for the popular range and come complete with a Bowthorpe EMP three-phase distribution surge protector.

New Dorman Smith TVSS kits can be easily installed and include a DIN-rail facility to mount a three-pole MCB. All kits provide IP4X protection and feature remote status and site fault indication. Offering unrestricted cableway access the devices can be supplied from panel board through MCB or directly from the first outgoing MCCB.

Dorman Smith TVSS mounting kits are available in three different options including: the Loadbank 125 mounting bracket, which can be easily installed into the existing panel board enclosure; the Loadbank 200 and 250 two module cable way enclosure, which can be accommodated either side of the panel board; and the Loadbank 200 and 250 two module mounting frame, designed to fit to standard cables of two modules high or greater within the Loadbank 200 and 250 system.

The design of the new Dorman Smith TVSS enclosure and mounting kits are part of Tyco Electronics’ continual development and commitment to address current standard EN62305:2006 – protection of structures against lightning.

TE logo, Tyco Electronics, Dorman Smith and Bowthorpe EMP are trademarks.
Other trademarks are property of respective owners.

About Tyco Electronics
Tyco Electronics Ltd. is a leading global provider of engineered electronic components, network solutions, undersea telecommunication systems and wireless systems, with 2007 sales of $13.0 billion to customers in more than 150 countries. We design, manufacture and market products for customers in industries from automotive, appliance and aerospace and defense to telecommunications, computers and consumer electronics. With over 7,000 engineers and worldwide manufacturing, sales and customer service capabilities, Tyco Electronics’ commitment is our customers’ advantage.

About Tyco Electronics – Energy Division
The Energy Division of Tyco Electronics is a global manufacturer of products and systems for the electrical power industry. Its products are extensively employed by power utilities and equipment manufacturers, in rail transport systems and in industry around the world. The Energy Division of Tyco Electronics offers a wide product range from brands such as AMP, Axicom, Dulmison, Raychem, SIMEL, Bowthorpe EMP, Crompton Instruments, Dorman Smith, including cable accessories, connectors and fittings, switching and power management devices, lighting protectors, surge arresters and insulators.

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Hep2O® the premier flexible push-fit plumbing system from Wavin has introduced a new Radiator Outlet Cover, designed to help with the problem of inward and outward air leakage behind radiators.

The innovative Hep2O® HX113 Radiator Outlet Cover is designed to fit securely around a 10mm pipe and is easily installed behind the radiator to cover the area where pipes enter the wall – a place commonly associated with heat loss.

When the pipes are installed into the wall, it is often extremely difficult to seal the gaps left around the pipes post installation. This allows heat to escape and air ingress into the walls results in greater energy consumption, higher fuel bills and unnecessary damage to the environment. The HX113 Radiator Outlet Cover is the perfect solution, stopping leakages by ensuring that the vulnerable area is sealed effectively.

Not only does the Hep2O® Radiator Outlet Cover contribute significantly to achieving a successful air tightness test as required by the April 2006 revision of the Part L Building Regulation, but the new range also ensures the home is heated in an energy efficient and cost effective way.

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At 37 storeys and 104 metres tall, the £80m Sky Plaza’s 349,000 square feet of student accommodation and 4,400 square feet of ancillary retail space is already a focal point of the Leeds skyline. By far the tallest student accommodation building in the world, it is also thought to be the biggest zinc cladding project in the U.K. to date. Carey Jones’ design utilised VMZINC’s rainscreen panel system in ANTHRA-ZINC® for the full extent of the north faÇade. The zinc complements deeply recessed casement windows which are split into horizontal sections every seven floors and met criteria for use of materials with minimal environmental impact.

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UK tank manufacturer Harlequin, is reporting strong sales across all markets of its 'Basic' Bunded Oil Tank range, as oil heating technicians and oil tank installers go 'back to basics'.

Launched in Autumn 2008, 'Basic' Bunded Oil Tanks are an evolution of the company's previous Bunded Contract Oil Tanks, but feature an enhanced product specification and an even greater choice of models. Like all Harlequin Bunded Oil Tanks, the 'Basic' range has been engineered to exceed all applicable UK, Irish and European requirements for the storage of heating oil at agricultural, commercial, domestic, industrial and institutional premises, including the requirements of OFTEC's OFS T100 Standard.

As a result of changes to Building Regulations and Standards across the UK, Harlequin now estimates that Bunded Oil Tanks are now a requirement at over 90% of new and replacement domestic oil tank installations in the province. Additionally, OFTEC Technical Instruction Book 3 requires that comparable levels of environmental protection are afforded to oil storage tank installations in the Republic of Ireland.

Not surprisingly, the majority of Harlequin's oil tank sales today consist of Bunded Oil Tanks – and according to the company's Marketing Manager John Switzer, that proportion is increasing all the time. By contrast, the number of old-fashioned Single Skin Oil Tanks sold by the company and which omit the environmental benefits of Bunded Oil Tanks, is in steady decline.

The premise behind Harlequin's 'Basic' range is that each and every oil storage installation is different.

Therefore, oil tank installers and technicians can choose from a range of five popular tank capacities and then add the ancillary equipment they require, without having to pay for equipment they don't. According to the company, the result is a 'compelling' product proposition at many installations, which permits installers and technicians to tailor oil storage tank installations to sitespecific requirements.

“Every Harlequin Basic Bunded Oil Tank is supplied complete with factory fitted, lockable fill, inspection and access points; integral, weatherproof venting; failsafe overfill prevention capability; and a 1″ Bottom Outlet.”, explains John.

“Once installers and technicians have selected their tank, they can choose from a range of useful options and accessories including a bund warning alarm, oil tank fitting kit, Tiger Loop de-aerator and of course an electronic oil tank contents gauge, which is quite simply a 'must have' for many consumers today.

“If however, they require a fully specified Bunded Oil Tank, Harlequin's market leading Standard Range of Bunded Oil Tanks is available. The Standard range consists of no fewer than 46 different models, 12 different capacities and 3 different colourways. Standard Bunded Oil Tanks are additionally supplied as standard with electronic oil tank contents gauge, bund warning alarm, tank fitting kit and a choice of top or bottom outlet.”

“It is difficult to underestimate the significance of the new Basic Bunded Oil Tank range at a time when counting the pennies has never been more important.”, says John. “Through empowering installers and technicians to select the ancillary equipment they require at an oil storage tank installation, it is possible to narrow the price differential between Bunded and Single Skin products.

“Bunded Oil Tanks are proven to significantly reduce the risk of oil pollution at any oil storage installation. Therefore, we would expect that the proportion of environmentally preferred Bunded Tanks being installed will increase still further. That's not just good news for anyone selling or installing Harlequin products. Environmentally responsible fuel storage is good news for the wider oil heating industry and great news for the environment too.”

Harlequin 'Basic' Bunded Oil Tanks are currently in production at the company's ISO9001, ISO14001 and OHSAS18001 Advanced Manufacturing Facility in Moira, Northern Ireland and available from over 1,000 Harlequin Accredited Resellers throughout the British Isles.

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Klober’s new brochure 'Taking control of air leakage' explains how to develop an effective roof airtightness strategy, with specific reference to the use of vapour permeable membranes, vapour control layers and air barriers. It explains the nine method of assessment categories in the Code for Sustainable Homes, the principles of building fabric air permeability and requirements of Building Regulations and BREEAM. Managing Director David Arendell commented, “Energy and CO2 emissions make the biggest overall contribution to the CSH. As we improve the thermal efficiency of new homes and move towards zero carbon construction, it is inevitable that air leakage will become even more significant”

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The campus at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is now one of the most energy efficient in the country thanks to an installation of solar panels.

Three of the university’s buildings have been equipped with 400 Sharp solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on their roofs, including the students union and library.

The modules, which have been installed by leading renewable technology specialist, Energi Holdings, will generate between them a total of 43,000kWh of electricity per year, which is enough to make over 2,100,000 cups of tea.

Display screens have been fitted in two of the buildings to monitor energy generation and students will be able to use the information for case studies.

The solar PV panels have been linked in with the university’s electrical network and all of the energy generated will be used on site, reducing the amount procured from the national grid.

The panels were switched on at a special launch event which was attended by council dignitaries, university staff and Energi Holdings.

Dr John Hindley, MMU’s environmental sustainability manager, said: “MMU uses more than 28 million kilowatt hours of electricity each year, so onsite energy generation is going to deliver real benefits in terms of both financial savings and reduced carbon emissions.

“The PV panel project is just one element of MMU’s sustainable development strategy. Along with the recently introduced energy rating scheme for university buildings and ‘Zero Waste’ project across halls of residence, MMU’s £120 million Hulme super-campus is aspiring to be the greenest in the UK with aims to have a zero carbon footprint.”

Mark Dickinson, managing director of Energi Holdings, said: “MMU were very ambitious in their carbon reduction plans and the installation will go a long way to helping them meet energy targets.

“This is another example of work we have undertaken across the education sector and universities in particular are looking at increasingly progressive ways of reducing their energy bills and carbon footprints.”

The £480,000 project was part-funded through the Low Carbon Buildings Programme, which gives up to 50 per cent funding to qualifying renewable energy projects.

Energi Holdings is fully accredited under the BRE Global MCS scheme for solar PV installers and are members of the REAL Assurance Scheme.

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Chris Thomas – CEO of Electrium and former BEAMA President explains why RCBOs offer the best option for compliance with the 17th Edition IEE Wiring Regulations.

The much anticipated 17th Edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations was published in January. At first glance the implications seem most onerous upon domestic installations where, in the majority of cases, the entire installation will require additional protection by 30 milliamp RCDs.

Presently the majority of domestic properties would have a part of the installation protected by a 30mA RCD which would be contained within a split load consumer unit. The RCD would most likely be protecting circuits such as socket outlets, electric shower and power in the garage or outside. With this type of arrangement when a fault causes the RCD to trip all of the lighting remains on. The benefits of this good practice are already obvious. Even so under the 17th Edition the effects of a single fault – particularly upon a lighting circuit – are now prescribed as a standard design consideration in Chapter 31 (Division of the installation).

However, if under the new regulations all circuits require 30mA RCD protection there could be a situation whereby power to some lighting circuits could be lost even though the lighting circuits are without fault. These circuits should be arranged in such a way as to avoid such risks.

Electrical designers will have to carry out a risk analysis to assess just how many circuits need to be independent and how many can utilise shared RCD devices before specifying a consumer unit. For example, it may be an inconvenience to lose all socket outlets at once but this is probably unlikely to cause another hazard, as would be the case if lighting circuits were affected.

There are other considerations such as smoke alarm circuits. BS5839 part 6 (Code of Practice for design installation and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems in dwellings) recommends independent circuits for certain grades of mains powered smoke alarms systems, and further recommends that if RCD protection is required then the RCD should serve only that circuit.

The 17th Edition requires every installation to be divided up into as many circuits as necessary to avoid hazards and minimise inconvenience in the event of a fault, and take account of the effect of a single fault, particularly on a lighting circuit. Designers should also reduce the possibilities of unwanted tripping of RCDs and facilitate safe inspection and maintenance as well as providing separate controls for circuits requiring independent controls.

Independently protected circuits throughout is the safest option, alternatively four or five RCBOs in a Split Load Unit would provide independence to essential circuits such as lighting and smoke alarms. Using RCBOs, is by far the best way to divide and conquer the RCD requirements.

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