Ability Matrix Fan Coil Units in Landmark Sheffield Commercial Development

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Over 130 technologically advanced Matrix Trojan EC fan coil units, manufactured by Ability Projects Ltd, Wimborne, Dorset, have been installed in the recently completed second phase of the striking Castlegate Square, Sheffield, project.

The Matrix EC fan coil system is unique in the UK in that it provides infinitely variable speed control of the whole fan coil unit as well as each fan within it, enabling each air duct to be balanced for air volume through fan speed alone, thus removing the need for costly, noisy volume control dampers and their time consuming installation. Matrix fan coils are also designed to adjust the overall air volume according to room occupancy, thermal demand or a combination of the two.

The Matrix system is fitted with a BACnet open protocol intelligent controller, factory pre wired to the fan coil and complete with dedicated software. Developed specifically for use on Ability Matrix fan coil units, this controller not only incorporates modulating valve control and on coil temperature sensing etc – it also offers system users wireless, lap top access to all fan coil features and settings without needing access to the ceiling void.

The Castlegate Square project is a mixed commercial development, comprising a Travelodge Hotel, retail outlets and some 200,000ft² grade ‘A’ office accommodation, 400,000ft² of it in this second phase, the overall scheme, due for completion in 2010, represents a vital modern business outlet with easy access to the City centre.

The 4 pipe Ability fan coil units, installed by Emcor Engineering Services, Cheadle Heath, Stockport, have nominal capacities of 0.6 to 6.80kW (cooling) and 0.6 to 22.6kW (heating) and are installed in false ceilings throughout the six floors of the second phase 40,000ft² office complex. Specified noise ratings for the units are NR35. All fan coils are fitted with BACnet controls, with ‘free issue actuators wired by Ability and secured inside their electrical enclosures.

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