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Visitors to the June 2010 World Cup stadia in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth will enjoy the benefits of air conditioning provided by Daikin water cooled VRV systems.

Water cooled VRV systems comprising 170 outdoor and 351 indoor units have been supplied by Daikin Air Conditioning South Africa (Pty) Ltd, to the currently under construction Green Point Stadium, Cape Town and the recently completed Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth. The 68,000 capacity Green Point Stadium, which will host semi and quarter final matches among others, is the first ‘intelligent’ stadium in South Africa and as its name suggests, is being built to environmentally conscious standards around a combination of 63 Daikin outdoor and 113 indoor units. All electrical equipment, including facility lighting, air conditioners and elevators are controlled centrally in order to maintain maximum energy efficiency.

The 48, 000 capacity Nelson Mandela Stadium, also built to similar Daikin energy saving concepts and hosting quarter final, third place consolation and some other matches, is fitted with 107 Daikin outdoor and 238 indoor units.

Conventional thinking to date concerning air conditioning sports complexes has tended to favour plant room based large capacity chillers. However, since the new South African stadia are designed as multi purpose facilities in which layouts can vary considerably from event to event, an alternative high energy efficient type of system was sought that could be precisely controlled and be flexible enough to air condition each area individually. The choice of Daikin water cooled VRV systems to these advanced sports stadia reflects their ability to deliver substantial savings in power consumption combined with close control over individual unit operation.

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Outdoor wiring accessories continue to be big business, whether for creating warm, well-lit areas outside bars and offices following the smoking ban or just enabling householders to use their gardening equipment, tools and other ‘toys’ safely and economically.

Weathersafe Vision from Timeguard gives you the edge in this growing marketplace with a range that makes sure users can always see whether or not the power is switched on – and all without compromising on safety. In addition, the new Weathersafe Vision range provides the ultimate in weather proofing, with units that will maintain their good looks and clear windows for years to come.

The new Weathersafe Vision range does just what its name suggests and gives users a clear view of the status of switched equipment in use outdoors. This is done through full-sized solid plastic windows that have been expertly manufactured to endure the harshness of the UK climate, meaning they will continue to remain practical for a long time.

This adds up to increased safety and economy, as the power supply is less likely to be left on when not needed if people can actually see what is going on. Bright red neons show whether or not a supply to a Weathersafe Vision socket is switched on, and users have a clear view of the status of integral RCDs.

The bigger picture

Where other ranges rely on smaller windows or flexible plastic coverings, the first thing you notice about Weathersafe Vision is the full size and clarity of their clear plastic windows combined with solid colour surround.

This new design is the end product of painstaking work by Timeguard’s design and engineering team who have created a design concept that, with the added benefit of Timeguard’s patented neoprene seals, ensures the weatherproof integrity to IP66, which means that they are both dust-proof and provide protection against strong water jets such as garden and power hoses. All in all, the design perfectly combines aesthetics with practicality.

Having mastered the challenge of creating full-size viewing windows, Timeguard moved onto the other details that make outdoor power safer and more economical for the end-user.

This was achieved by creating a range of singe and dual-gang sockets, with tough, impact-resistant housings, options for integral RCDs, multiple 20mm knock-outs, lids that can be shut to maintain weatherproofing when the socket(s) is in use and a facility to lock the lid with a padlock to prevent tampering.

In each case, Weathersafe Vision lets the user see what they need to know. Is the neon lit showing that the power is on? Has the RCD flag changed, showing it has tripped? In double-gang switches can you see if one socket is on and one off?

Aside from the obvious, there are a number of advantages to the Weathersafe Vision range, including:

• Safety – Generally, the message to property owners should be that the requirements for running outside electrical installations – lights and power supplies – are strict. For a start, they should be fitted by a professional electrician.

  An RCD (residual current device) should always be placed between indoor and outdoor electrical circuits, including the initial connection to an outdoor transformer used for a low-voltage system.

  Naturally, sockets and spurs with integral RCDs, complete with test and reset buttons, are included in the new Weathersafe Vision range.

• Economy – The easiest way to save power is to turn the product off – automatically where possible. That’s why the Weathersafe Vision range also includes a dual-gang box that combines a 13A socket with a 24-hour timer. Timeguard opted for a simple segment timer because it is easy to see the whole programme of up to 48 on/offs in a 24-hour period through the window. These units are ideal for controlling garden lighting.

  The Weathersafe Vision range offer a range of extras while they also come with the peace-of-mind that they meet the highest standards, which Timeguard set time and again.

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Of the nine CSH method of assessment categories, 'energy and CO2 emissions' is by far the most significant. Klober’s new CPD presentation 'The Code for Sustainable Homes and airtightness in roofs' which is now available online examines how to 'build tight and ventilate right' within the realms of practical pitched roofing construction. It evaluates the use of air barriers, vapour control layers (AVCLs), vapour permeable roofing underlays and sealing products such as tapes, sealants & collars.

The online presentation was approved by the Construction CPD Certification Service and enables browsers to view it on demand. Validation is by means of an interactive exam which uses a bank of randomly changing questions. To view the presentation, go to www.klober.co.uk/airtightness or, if visiting GreenbuildEXPO in Manchester register to attend the presentation on 26th May at www.greenbuildexpo.co.uk.

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The Daikin Altherma high temperature air source heat pump has won the ‘Heating, Plumbing, Ventilation and Building Services’ category of the 2010 Self-Build Product Innovation Awards 2010. These awards recognise innovation with in the UK building industry, showcasing the very best offerings in the UK market and further reflect the Daikin Altherma HT’s unique capabilities.

The Daikin Altherma high temperature air source heat pump was chosen by the judges as the most innovative building services product to meet the demands of today’s consumer and constantly evolving building regulations. This’ industry first’ system offers a low carbon, low energy solution to supplying a home’s total heating and hot water requirements, even in the case of harder to heat properties.

The Altherma system delivers seasonal efficiencies of more than 300%, compared to a typically 93% efficient condensing boiler. It can therefore, deliver a reduction in CO2 emissions of over 50% compared to traditional gas, oil and solid fuel boiler systems plus running costs savings of up to 25% compared to an A-rated gas boiler and up to 45% compared to a G-rated gas boiler.

Until recently, a major barrier to heat pumps has been the low flow temperature (typically maximum 50oC) that they can deliver without the provision of additional heat input from non-renewable technology, such as additional gas or electric heating. Although this is not a problem for new build houses and apartments, in which water flow temperatures can be designed into the overall heating system specification, it can pose a problem for the refurbishment of older harder to heat properties with large heat loss potential.

The Altherma HT system however, provides a direct alternative to boiler replacement and can fully support existing radiator systems, providing a highly efficient and versatile high temperature solution with guaranteed flow temperatures of up to 80°C, without the need for non-renewable back up heating. High flow temperatures are achieved by virtue of a specially designed cascading heat pump configuration. The system consists of an outdoor heat pump (first stage) and indoor unit hydrobox (second stage heat pump) in which upgraded free heat from the air is transferred to the heating and hot water system. The hot water cylinder is installed next to or mounted neatly on top of the indoor unit.

The system comes as a complete package, which includes all main hydraulics components such as hot water recirculation pumps and control valves and incorporates either a 200 or 260 litre hot water cylinder capable of delivering up to 500 litres equivalent of hot water for bathing or showering.

This solution opens up the there opportunity for significant expansion in the use of heat pump technology for heating and hot water, particularly in older properties. The Daikin Altherma HT system can be directly installed to replace an older traditional type boiler system in a more simple, sustainable and cost efficient way. The Daikin Altherma HT heat pump was among the winning products on display at the National Home Building & Renovating Show at the NEC, Birmingham from 18th – 21st March.

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Presence detection: keeping the carbon footprint under control

The best way to save energy is to turn things off when you don’t need them, argues Timeguard, and the best way to make sure that lights and HVAC equipment are only on when they’re needed is to switch them on automatically. You just need the right PIR-activate presence detectors to control the call for power – and you’ll be sure to find them in the huge range now available from Timeguard and its parent company Theben AG.

Timeguard’s latest addition, a new range of affordable presence detectors, will make this technology very attractive in a wide range of installations, and should be on your shelves now.

Timeguard’s new range of sensitive presence detectors, complement its established and top-selling 360° PIR detectors, the workhorses of the market. The new detectors break new ground in price performance to bring the benefits of presence detection to more building users – and optional remote controls mean everyone will find them easy to set.

As their name suggests, these ceiling and flush mounted devices detect the presence of people in an area, sitting at a desk and working quietly, rather than requiring them to actually get up and move around the detection field in order to trigger lights or heating/ventilating equipment to switch or stay on. This makes them idea for open plan offices, libraries and reception areas etc.

As they are also sensitive to light levels, these detectors will only switch lights on when light levels are below a user-selected level between so that lights will not come on unnecessarily when ambient light will suffice.

The new Timeguard Presence Detector range includes single and dual channel versions for ceiling or flush mounting. The detection field is adjustable up to 7m.

The optional remote control enables users to set lux levels, light on times and field dimensions using a simple hand-held device. Setting can be duplicated in dual channel devices with the touch of a button; alternatively the two channels can be set up independently.

40% energy savings possible

Is it worth the extra hassle and expense of installing presence detectors? The answer is a resounding YES.

One school has measured savings of over 40% in classrooms in its new block, compared with conventional light controls in other classroom blocks.

Because they are so sensitive and allow for zoned control, presence detectors are far more sensitive to light levels and movement and so allow for precise control.

Theben HTS presence detectors were chosen for the newly-renovated areas of a school (pictured left), where the client required lighting for nine new classrooms and corridors. The detector model chosen provides two separately controlled switched outputs making it ideal for use in large spaces like classrooms. There are two sets of lights in each classroom, and those nearest the windows switch off before those in the inner parts of the rooms where there is less natural light.

These presence detectors have inputs for conventional 230V sensors or switches for manual control. At this school a semi-automatic operating mode was chosen so that lighting always has to be switched on manually but will switch off automatically if there is sufficient natural light or at night.

Timeguard MD Andy Douglas points out that that these levels of control are not the preserve of new-build and refurbishments: it is not a big job to parallel lighting circuits and install presence detectors to provide zoned control.

Corridors: an awkward shape for presence detectors? Not anymore!

There’s no need for detectors at both ends of a corridor using Theben Compact Passage detector which packs two detectors, facing in opposite directions, into one small casing, which can the be mounted centrally.

One device – one install – one happy installer!

High ceilings? No problem

Controlling lighting in large open plan areas with high ceilings with the precision afforded by presence detectors is possible thanks to the Theben HTS ECO-IR detectors, as shown at this sports centre. Hand held remote control devices solve the obvious problem of setting and re-adjusting the presence detectors when they are so high up.

Presence Detectors from Timeguard:

• Reduce carbon emissions
• Save energy
• Save money
• Easy to install
• Comply with part L

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As one of Europe’s market leaders in zinc roofing, cladding and rainwater systems, VMZINC’s CPD presentation 'Zinc as a building envelope' examines the metal’s use in construction today. It discusses the flexibility and durability of zinc as well as specific factors such as corrosion, ventilation, expansion/contraction, recycling and the environment.

As a non-ferrous metal, zinc is naturally self-protecting. If supplied in its natural finish, it gradually forms an attractive light grey patina which requires little or no maintenance. It offers durability, long-term cost-effectiveness and malleability and is therefore ideal for shaping and complex detailing.

The choice of systems and 5 visually distinctive, pre-weathered colours has enabled VMZINC to develop an identity for the metal which suits diverse architectural styles. Whether used for new build, refurbishment or to extend, rolled zinc is now widely used to complement a variety of building materials. The pre-weathered colours mellow gradually and buildings therefore retain the appearance for which the material was specified.

Using VM ZINC PLUS which has a coating applied to protect the material's underside from corrosion, it is now possible to install zinc in warm roof applications where the zinc and support are not ventilated.

Compared with other metals, very little energy is needed to manufacture zinc metal from ore – less than half that consumed for copper and stainless steel and a quarter that used for aluminium. Zinc’s typical lifespan can exceed 100 years and as an example, the recently redeveloped Brighton railway station had a VMZINC roof which was over a century old removed, recycled and new material supplied.

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A-Gas (UK) Limited has gone live with a dedicated website to help businesses gain further insight and help with the Virgin HCFC use ban.

Despite all the publicity and warnings there are still end-users who are unaware that they may be storing illegal refrigerants. A-Gas’ aim is to help ensure that businesses have easy access and can check out for themselves what options are available.

By logging onto www.hcfcphaseout.com end-users, distributors, contractors, installers or service engineers are provided with a useful tool that provides accessible, up to date information, advice and options to help them manage their installations.

“Our dedicated website provides easy to follow advice and customers can contact A-Gas for further information and technical support,” comments Ken Logan, Managing Director, A-Gas (UK) Limited.

“Many businesses may not realise that the phase-out can bring new opportunities for business and presents a number of opportunities including switching to energy efficient systems with the help of a government-backed loan or taking advantage of more environmentally friendly refrigerants that could also improve energy efficiencies and running costs,” adds Ken.

A-Gas is also offering a reclaimed HCFCs service to ease users through the next stage of the phase out, when HCFCs will be banned in 2015. Reclaimed HCFCs are recovered HCFC gases that have been chemically reprocessed to a specified standard. To identify genuine A-Gas reclaimed the cylinders will have a green shrink wrap as opposed to the magenta wrap and A-Gas’ own cylinder tracking system will be able to identify material and the original batch.

Whatever the application, A-Gas offers unbiased advice; support and help users find the right solution for their requirements.

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Contemporary ‘City’ wall brackets from Chelsom have been used in the newly launched four star Hard Days Night Hotel in Liverpool. Housed in the magnificent Grade II listed ‘Central Buildings’ which date back to 1884, the ‘Beatles hotel’ boasts 110 rooms and two executive penthouse suites.

The ‘City’ fittings are manufactured from anthracite stove-lacquered steel and for this project were teamed with black oblong cotton shades.

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According to the Energy Saving Trust’s Chief Executive Philip Sellwood, almost a third of new homes are still failing to meet energy efficiency guidelines. He told the BBC “… the Government's 'Code for Sustainable Homes' is not being adequately enforced, giving cause for real concern. Our building regulations in the UK are among the toughest in Europe, but they are extremely poorly enforced as far as energy efficiency goes”.

David Arendell, MD of roofing specialist Klober feels the situation in respect of building airtightness gives grounds for even greater concern. He commented, “Despite the fact that the phrase 'Build tight, ventilate right' has become synonymous with the strategy to construct low energy buildings, awareness of how best to achieve airtight construction remains poor. Failing to achieve the right balance between airtightness and controlled ventilation increases the risk of condensation within the roof space. With every upgrade in insulation standards, the risk increases”.

Delays in consultation on Approved Documents L and G have prompted deferment in CSH 2010 until the end of the year. Some house builders have lobbied for a clearer definition of how 'zero carbon' can be achieved, prompting establishment of the Zero Carbon Task Group. There is some evidence to support calls for redefinition as research carried out by the Richard Hodkinson Consultancy, for example, showed that 'PassivHaus' (the Europe-wide Standard with stringent airtightness requirements managed by the BRE and the Energy Saving Trust) would not actually meet even CSH 3. CSH assessment uses the SAP test to calculate energy performance, and for some time there the efficacy of the test, particularly in relation to more thermally efficient buildings, has been questioned.

The requirement already exists for new public sector housing to meet CSH 3 and the impetus towards 'zero carbon' will be given fresh impetus when the equivalent of CSH 3 is incorporated into Building Regulations for England and Wales (similar improvements are planned in Scotland).

Of the nine categories within the CSH method of assessment, 'energy and CO2 emissions' is by far the most significant. This is true in terms of allocation of credits, for which 29 are available, and the final points allocation, 36.4% of total available performance once weighting factors have been taken into account.

The right balance between airtightness and ventilation can be struck without significant addition to building costs. Material choice, however, can greatly influence long-term airtightness. Sheet membrane air barriers coupled with sealants, for example, are more effective than sealants alone, counteracting the effects of buildings (particularly timber frame) drying out. Accredited Construction Details (ACDs), Enhanced Construction details (ECDs) and, in Scotland, the Scottish Ecological Design Association Guide are now available for both warm and cold roof construction. Accredited detail Sheet MCI RE 02, for example, shows a warm roof detail at the eaves using Klober Permo forte vapour permeable underlay and either appropriate tapes or a pre-taped product.

Despite the absence of any CSH equivalent for non-residential construction, airtightness can be important in relation to use of roofing materials such as zinc (if the metal’s underside is unventilated). Abergwynfi primary school near Neath was designed to achieve a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating, with zinc used on a series of circular classroom roofs. Klober Wallint air barrier was installed with compatible sealing tape to meet the specified airtightness.

With current Building Regulation requirements stipulating airtightness of only 7m3/hr per m2 compared with CSH 3 at 3m3, techniques used to achieve it must undoubtedly change. 'The Code for Sustainable Homes and airtightness in roofs' CPD presentation from Klober examines how to 'build tight and ventilate right' within the realms of practical pitched roofing construction. It is a welcome source of information on a subject for which little is otherwise available. For more information go to www.klober.co.uk/airtightness.

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JS Air Curtains has supplied eight air curtains to the Welcome Break motorway services at Membury on the M4. The air curtains are helping to maintain internal temperatures even with the external doors in constant use.

The air curtains were installed by Russell Air Conditioning. Five 2m Windbox air curtains and three HeatScreen air curtains are positioned at the front entrance, rear entrance and on some internal doorways.

Ray Drinkwater, Facilities Manager at Membury Services, commented, “Without the air curtains the doors acted like a wind tunnel with the cold air blowing right through. The air curtains from JS were recommended by Russell Air Conditioning and have done a great job in stopping the cold air entering.”

In total the air curtains are capable of providing over 21,000m3/h of airflow to seal the doorways. As well as keeping the heat in during the winter, they can also be used with the heaters off in the summer to prevent air conditioned air from escaping.

The Windbox air curtain has a powerful output and can be used on doorways up to 3.5m high. It can be horizontally mounted above a doorway or vertically to the side. The units supplied to Welcome Break were white but the Windbox is available in any RAL colour to suit interior architecture. The air curtain can incorporate electric or low pressure hot water heating and is controlled from either a five-speed wall mounted controller, supplied with 20m of plug and play RJ45 cable, or via a BMS system.

The other model used at Welcome Break was the HeatScreen air curtain. This is an economical air curtain with a maximum output of 1,670m3/h. It can be controlled either with the panel on the front of the unit or via a handheld remote control. It is available in lengths of 90cm, 120cm and 150cm, comes with two metres of electrical lead and can be wired to a single phase power supply.

JS Air Curtains supplies an extensive range of air curtains, as well as bespoke solutions, for all commercial and industrial applications. JS’ in-house project management division also provides a smooth, hassle-free installation service that walks the customer through from design specification to post-installed product training.

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