Uncertainty over Brexit has not dented the confidence of the building services sector. Above-average pay rises and a continuing skills shortage mean adventurous engineers still have many opportunities to explore. David Blackman reports
Author: Alex Smith
SAP 10: Other factors to consider
Lower carbon factors for grid electricity, in draft SAP 10, will profoundly affect how designers provide heat and power to buildings. Remeha’s general manager, Mike Hefford, puts the case for monthly intensity calculations
Ten classic problems with occupant survey research
Findings from occupant surveys may not be as robust as researchers claim. Roderic Bunn highlights potential flaws in health, comfort and productivity studies
Refrigerant choice
Despite the F-Gas phasedown that is taking place over the next 12 years, there is still a wide range of refrigerants available. Martin Passingham, product manager for DX at Daikin UK looks at the current landscape and the factors that inform the selection of refrigerants
The pressing issue of pipe selection
Developments in multilayer pipe means that it is now increasingly used for applications such as heating systems and drinking water pipework. Here, Scott James, Director at Viega discusses the growth in popularity of multilayer pipe and what engineers need to consider when selecting a system.
Pipework commissioning considerations to prevent corrosion and contamination
The quality of the pipework testing and commissioning process is vital to protect the system and prevent costly and time-consuming remedial work after the fit out is complete. Viega director Scott James looks at the issues to consider and explains why the choice of connection method is so important
Technical note: the government ban on combustible materials in high-rise residential buildings
Amendment to Building Regulations will come into force on 21 December 2018 and affect buildings over 18m high. Hywel Davies looks at the detail
Learning from Nabers: Designing for performance in the UK
The Design for Performance initiative is partnering with pioneering developers to create a performance-in-use rating scheme in the UK that could transform office design and delivery, as Liza Young finds out
The living lab: making data count
Hoare Lea’s Living Lab is exploring how data can be used to optimise buildings for both energy use and the comfort of occupants. Alex Smith takes a glimpse into a smarter future
Skills for the future
Digital construction and zero carbon buildings are changing how the building services industry develops its engineers, says Hywel Davies